23Oct
The BMW M6, a high-performance iteration of the iconic 6 Series, has left an indelible mark on automotive history. With its lineage dating back to 1983 and spanning until 2018, the 2007 M6 represented a pivotal moment, commemorating two decades since the M Division first graced the 6 Series with its transformative touch. It's a stark reminder of how much has evolved in those 20 years.
In 1987, the GenXers were just as mesmerized by the first-ever M6, boasting a mere 256 horsepower and a 0-to-60 time of 6.1 seconds, as they were by Scarface and the Golden Girls. Fast forward to the present, and even the family-oriented Toyota Avalon boasts more power and quicker acceleration. Indeed, the landscape has shifted, and the M6 has adapted accordingly, now wielding a formidable 500 horsepower and a level of performance that would have outclassed the reigning supercars of that era.
Available initially as a coupe, subsequent generations introduced convertible and fastback sedan ('Gran Coupe') variants. The M6 played a prominent role in the first three iterations of the 6 Series, marking a chapter in BMW's history that concluded in 2018. It was succeeded by the BMW M8 (F91/F92/F93) in 2019. This retrospective journey offers a glimpse into the evolution of automotive excellence, embodied by the 2007 BMW M6, and the relentless pursuit of performance that defines the M Series.
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What Is The 2007 BMW M6? An Overview
After a 16-year hiatus, the M6 version of the E63/E64 6 Series made its triumphant return in 2005. Powering this dynamic revival was the formidable BMW S85 V10 engine, matched with the SMG-III automated manual gearbox borrowed from the E60 M5.
The M6 was available in two enticing configurations, a sleek coupé bearing the E63 model code and a thrilling convertible designated by the E64 model code. The exterior design, embodying the essence of performance and style, was masterfully crafted under the watchful eye of Karl Elmitt.
Under the hood, the M6 offered two distinct power modes. In "P400" mode, the engine unleashed 394 horsepower, while the "P500" mode elevated this to a remarkable 500 horsepower. These impressive figures translated to a solid performance, with a 0–62 mph sprint accomplished in a mere 4.6 seconds.
The top velocity was electronically capped at 155 mph, but with the optional M-driver's package (for gearheads with a need for speed), it soared to a breathtaking 190 mph. In terms of weight, the coupé version tipped the scales at 1,785 kg (3,935 lb), while the convertible variant added a bit more heft, weighing in at 2,005 kg (4,420 lb).
BMW engineers implemented a range of weight-saving measures, including the pioneering use of a carbon fiber roof (a feature last seen on the E46 M3 CSL), thermoplastic quarter panels, aluminum doors, an aluminum hood, and a thermo-fiber plastic trunk lid.
For driving purists in North America, 2007 brought a delightful surprise with the introduction of a 6-speed manual gearbox, a choice that only 701 lucky individuals made (comprising 323 coupes and 378 convertibles).
The M6's remarkable journey reached its conclusion in 2011, with a total of 9,087 coupes and 5,065 convertibles finding their way to enthusiastic owners over its five-year production span.
This chapter in the M6's history, marked by power, performance, and style, will forever be etched in the annals of automotive greatness. The best part is that the ‘07 M6 still looks as cool today as it did 16 years ago. Looking at it, one might say it hasn’t aged a day.
The M5 vs. M6: Which Is Better?
The battle between the M5 and M6 hinges on a nuanced quest for supremacy.
The M5, a paragon of luxury, boasts a Formula 1-inspired V10 engine generating 500 horsepower, an orchestration of mechanical artistry that revs with the precision of jet engine turbines.
Its seven-speed sequential manual gearbox, a masterpiece borrowed from the world of Formula 1, drew envy even from drivers of the BMW Williams racing team. The M5's aluminum suspension is an engineering masterpiece.
But then enter the M6 like a maestro challenging the reigning virtuoso. Performance-wise, the M6 stands toe-to-toe with the M5, and then it ventures into new realms of excellence. It shares the same potent V10 and the seamless seven-speed SMG transmission.
However, the M6 takes the lead not by adding power but by shedding weight. Its roof, constructed from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFP), shaves off a remarkable 55 percent of the weight compared to the conventional steel roof on the 645Ci.
This isn't just about shedding pounds; it's about lowering the center of gravity and enhancing the car's agility. The M6 continues its weight-saving regimen with specially engineered 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, reducing nearly four pounds at each corner.
Lightweight fiberglass-reinforced plastic adorns the side panels and rear deck. Even the bumpers, made from the same exotic CFP as the roof, contribute to the weight loss, cutting it by 20 percent upfront and a staggering 40 percent in the rear. This meticulous slimming down leaves the M6 with approximately 275 fewer pounds to haul compared to the M5.
Yes, the balance of weight, power, and agility ultimately gave the M6 the upper hand. The M6's center of gravity hovers nearly two inches lower than the M5, giving it a more nimble disposition. The M5 may shine as a capable passenger car, but the M6 thrives when you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience on mountain roads with just one companion and a pair of briefcases.
Start the M6, and you'll be greeted by a deeper, more insistent rumble from its V10. Throttle response is a mesmerizing dance of 40 valves and 10 throttle butterflies, creating an exotic symphony of power.
The exhaust note carries a refined, highly tuned quality that sets it apart. Normal cars don't produce this level of auditory drama at idle; it might even make you question if you're in a vehicle or a Formula 1 pit lane. The M6 delivers an unparalleled auditory and visceral experience that can leave an ear-to-ear grin on any driving enthusiast’s face.
How Fast Is The 2007 BMW M6? - The Engine, Drivetrain, And Performance Specifications
The 2007 M6 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, thanks to a distinguished 5.0-liter V10 engine delivering an impressive 500 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque.
This powerplant is a marvel of BMW's engineering, featuring advanced technology like infinitely variable valve timing and a dedicated throttle butterfly for each cylinder. The result is a powerband that sprawls generously and gains intensity as it surges toward an 8,250-rpm redline.
For gear-shifting duties, the M6 offers a sole transmission choice: the seven-speed automatic Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG).
The 3rd-gen SMG’s impressive precision is unmistakable when you take control of the shifts manually, using the paddles conveniently located behind the steering wheel or the console-mounted shifter. It smoothly blips the throttle for seamless downshifts and handles upshifts with a blistering speed that can make you the victor in most impromptu drag races.
In automatic mode, however, the SMG reportedly falls short of expectations, occasionally exhibiting unpredictability and sluggish responses during low-speed traffic scenarios. Thankfully, BMW's iDrive system comes to the rescue with an MDrive menu enabling you to tailor your preferred throttle and transmission settings.
The quarter-mile flashes by in just 12.8 seconds at a speed of 117.4 mph. To achieve this feat, delicate throttle control is essential due to the copious torque being channeled to the wide 285/35ZR19 rear tires.
The M6 convertible may be marginally slower, but it's equally fast. Both models are electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph - you know why. With the BMW M6, it's not just about raw power but also the finesse to harness that power effectively.
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Is The 2007 BMW M6 Reliable?
According to the Kelley Blue Book (KBB), the 2007 BMW M6 received an average consumer rating of 4.9 overall and a 4.8 for reliability, which means owners consider its reliability to be way above average.
The only verdict we've heard owners say about this car is just how much they love it. They praise the adjustable performance, intoxicatingly comfortable ride, smooth-shifting transmission, decent fuel economy, voice-controlled features, confident handling, and style.
But since we have to keep an open mind about performance-oriented vehicles like this one, the BMW M6 from the mid-2000s, including the 2007 model, is known for its powerful engine, luxurious features, and advanced technology, a combination that typically translates to higher maintenance needs compared to more standard models.
That’s good to know, right?
In general, some owners have reported issues with the car's complex electronics, expensive parts, and high maintenance costs, which can affect perceptions of reliability. There are also specific issues reported with the V10 engine used in this model, specifically high oil consumption and the potential for expensive repairs.
We dare say that if these pointers scare you, you’re not ready for an M6. However, the experience can vary significantly from one vehicle to another, depending on factors such as how the car was driven, maintained, and cared for by its previous owners. Some owners may have experienced very few problems and consider the car reliable, while others might have had different experiences.
What's So Special About The 2007 BMW M6?
The BMW M6 is a testament to where performance and Formula 1 heritage converge, with its true brilliance manifesting in the scorching final 2,000 revolutions on the tachometer. To fully unleash this potential, you need a vacant mountain road, the unrestricted Autobahn, or the ultimate playground—a racetrack.
Launching in coupe form, the ‘07 BMW M6 maintains its high-performance GT essence while elevating its power and capabilities. Sharing its genetic code with the formidable M5 super sport sedan, the M6 channels the same exhilarating Formula 1 soundtrack from the engine bay.
Its 500-hp V10 heart churns out a spine-tingling 7,750 rpm and 383 pound-feet of torque at 6,100 rpm. The BMW Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), bereft of a traditional clutch pedal, efficiently transmits this prodigious power to the rear wheels.
The year 2007 marked the marvelous addition of a convertible variant to the BMW M6 bloodline. While it does carry nearly 500 pounds of extra weight, it offers an entirely new dimension of experiencing the V10's symphony.
With nothing but the open sky between you and the harmonious bellow of one of the most remarkable engines in production car history, all that's left to do is apply SPF 50 and let the sun, wind, and sound envelop your senses. But the M6 isn't solely about straight-line speed; it possesses depth and versatility.
With an electronically adaptable suspension, a perfectly balanced 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles, and BMW's signature ultra-communicative steering, the M6 eagerly partners with you on lonely back roads to redefine that famous Japanese phrase, Jinba Ittai. Set the adaptive suspension to "Comfort," and it can even serve as a comfortable daily driver.
You can say quite confidently at the bar that few high-performance coupes and convertibles offered the M6’s level of adaptability. The Porsche 911 Turbo and GT3 may have outshined the M6 in acceleration and handling, but they compromised on comfort and rear-seat accommodations.
The same applies to exotics like the Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo, and Aston Martin DB9, not to mention their significantly higher price tags. Models like the Aston V8 Vantage, Jaguar XKR, and Maserati GranSport come closer in price to the BMW but didn’t match the Bimmer’s speed.
If you go combing the market for an equivalent blend of luxury and comfort, you'd find yourself looking at the Mercedes-Benz SL55 and Bentley Continental GT/GTC, both commanding substantially higher prices. The 2007 BMW M6 then stands as an exceptional value, catering to that select breed of enthusiasts who demand a genuine four-seater that seamlessly marries staggering performance with opulent luxury.
How Much Is The 2007 BMW M6?
Prices for a used 2007 BMW M6 on TrueCar currently range from $9,497 to $29,995, with vehicle mileage ranging from 47,880 to 168,899.
According to CarGuru, the average 2007 BMW M6 costs about $25,433.36, an average price increase of 3.7% since last year. In CARFAX used car listings, you can find a used 2007 BMW M6 for sale from $14,900 to $29,995.
This very day, JD Power reports $9,025 as the average price shoppers paid for a used 2007 BMW M6, with 80% of customers paying $8,486–$9,661. JD Power drew its data from 16 recorded transactions. What else besides performance does that money get you?
Distinguished by M-specific features such as 19-inch double-spoke wheels wrapped in performance tires, a carbon-fiber roof for the coupe, and an aggressive body kit, the M6 stands out from the crowd.
Inside, the cabin boasts leather sports seats with 12-way power adjustments (14-way for the M6 Convertible) and a sporty M steering wheel.
Standard luxury amenities include adaptive xenon headlights, a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium Harman Kardon Logic 7 audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, one-touch power windows, and seat heaters.
Optional features include a head-up display, keyless startup, Sirius Satellite Radio, high-definition (HD) AM/FM radio, and a full leather interior. You can choose from walnut wood trim, olive ash wood, or carbon-fiber accents.
Additionally, the M6 offers a variety of leather upholstery options in colors like red, brown, beige, gray, and black to tailor the interior to your preferences.
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