UNLIKE arch-rival Mercedes-Benz, BMW does not have a long history of making large convertibles, but upmarket coupes have played a major part in shaping the marque’s heritage and the 6 Series Convertible will share its platform and mechanicals with the yet to be launched 6 Series coupe. The first 6 Series Convertible made its Australian debut in 2005 as a sequel to the coupe but this time BMW has reversed the procedure, launching the droptop first to take advantage of the European summer. The V8-powered 650i will be joined by the six-cylinder 640i which will be the first 6 Series convertible to cost less than $200K. Extensive use of aluminium and careful engineering has produced a stiffer, more focused open vehicle which is a pleasure to drive under all conditions.

6 Series Convertible
Released: May 2004
Ended: April 2011
Family Tree: 6 SeriesLaunched in May 2004, the E63 645Ci Convertible was priced at $220K. Its 4.4-litre V8 developed 245kW and 450Nm and drove through a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite weighing 200kg more than its 1620kg Coupe counterpart, the Convertible still performed strongly, but some flexing of the big body was evident over uneven surfaces. Like most BMWs of the Chris Bangle design era, its styling was advanced and radical.
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