The rocket-powered grand tourer.
The 6 Series grand touring coupe and convertible from BMW have just received their newest M treatment and are more powerful than ever. It was only a matter of time before the new generation F12/F13 6 Series Coupe and Convertible were given the prized M badge, and this time around they share quite a bit of technology with the new F10 BMW M5.
The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine that was used in the F10 BMW M5 powers both the F12 M6 Coupe and F13 M6 Convertible. The new power-packed M-engine utilizes Twin Scroll Turbo technology, direct fuel injection, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, and Valvetronic variable valve control to reduce emissions, increase output and fuel economy, and virtually eliminate turbo lag. The BMW M6 power and fuel economy with the 4.4-liter effectively says “goodbye” to the naturally aspirated V-10 that once powered the E63/64 M6 models. New technology such as automatic start/stop functions, and Efficient Dynamics help reduce consumption by over 30 percent compared to the previous generation M6.
The BMW F12 M6 and F13 M6 are striking performers thanks to the new 4.4-liter V-8 and seven-speed M double clutch transmission that was used in the new M5. The BMW M6 power band hits like a wave that builds all the way through the rev range. All of the power is sent to the rear wheels and through the Active M differential to ensure maximum grip at all times. The engine is capable of producing 560 horsepower from 6,000 to 7,000 RPM and 502 lb-ft. from just 1,500 RPM. In the BMW F12 M6, this enables the coupe to accelerate to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds and reach 124 mph in 12.6 seconds, while the BMW F13 M6 Convertible does the same sprints in 4.3 and 13.1 seconds. Both models are limited to a top speed of 155 mph, but opt for the M Driver’s Package and you’ll be rewarded with a 189 mph limit.
Both of the new BMW M6 variants receive a performance oriented M-specific chassis along with custom-tailored front and rear axle kinematics. A number of electronic and performance aids come standard such as Dynamic Damper Control, M Servotronic steering, DSC stability control. BMW even took steps to strengthen the body panels in the F12 and F13 M6 to ensure maximum rigidity and performance. Each model receives a lightweight performance braking system or can be fitted with M carbon ceramic brakes for even better stopping power. The Coupe model benefits from a superb 7.3 lb./hp power-to-weight ratio, while the Convertible boasts a 7.7 lb./hp ratio, ensuring both are powerful, dynamic sports cars.
As with all BMW M models, the new M6 Coupe and Convertible gain aggressive, unique bodywork to reflect the car’s enhanced performance and power. The front of each will wear a new apron with three large air intakes and aerodynamically optimized fins, while the black M kidney bean grille with double slats proudly wears an M badge. Much of the new bodywork was designed with aerodynamics in mind. Each of the side skirts, side mirrors, and the rear diffuser with tailpipe cutouts help slice through air and maintain high-speed stability. Finishing the exterior design are double spoke 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels.
The interior of the F12 M6 and F13 M6 are every bit as luxurious and comfortable as one would expect from a grand tourer, but focused on the driver. A number of M-specific features such as the leather double-spoke steering wheel, gear selector, sport seats, instrument panel, and controls give a feeling of exclusivity and performance. Each of the sport seats and the center console is furnished in Merino leather and complemented by carbon fiber trim strips. Occupants are greeted by illuminated door sills with model lettering.
A number of advanced electronics come standard for convenience, safety, and entertainment in the new F12 and F13 BMW M6. A heads up display shows relevant information to the driver and adaptive LED headlights help provide clear nighttime vision. The new BMW night vision system comes standard with pedestrian display for safety at night. All of the M6 models will feature internet access, smartphone and music player integration, and facebook and twitter apps for those important status updates.
The new 2012 BMW F13 M6 Convertible will reach US shores in June of 2012, while the F12 M6 Coupe will be sold later in 2012 as a 2013 model in the US. Pricing and further US-specific details have not been released.
BMW F12 and F13 M6 Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 4.4 liters (4,395 cc)
Number of Cylinders: V-8; 90-degree angle
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Bore x Stroke: 88.3 x 89.0 mm
Compression Ratio 10.0:1
Maximum Horsepower: 560 (412 kW) from 6,000 to 7,000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 502 lb-ft. (680 Nm) from 1,500 to 5,750 RPM
Transmission:
Type: Seven-speed M double clutch with Drivelogic
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance (F12 M6 Coupe):
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 7.3 lb./hp
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.2 seconds
Acceleration 0-124 mph: 12.6 seconds
Top Speed: electronically limited to 155 mph (189 mph with M Driver’s Pkg.)
Performance (F13 M6 Convertible):
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 7.7 lb./hp
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.3 seconds
Acceleration 0-124 mph: 13.1 seconds
Top Speed: electronically limited to 155 mph (189 mph with M Driver’s Pkg.)
Wheels, Tires, Brakes, and Suspension:
Wheels: M double-spoke
Front Wheels: 9.5J x 19 LM
Rear Wheels: 10.5J x 19 LM
Front Tires: 265/40 R19 102Y
Rear Wheels: 295/35 R19 104Y
Front Brakes: Six-piston, fixed caliper, compound, ventilated, 400 x 36 mm
Rear Brakes: Single-piston, floating caliper, compound, ventilated, 396 x 24 mm
Front Suspension: Double track control arm with M-specific elastokinematics, small, negative steering roll radius, anti-dive.
Rear Suspension: Integral-V multi-arm axle with M-specific elastokinematics, spatial suspension with anti-squat and anti-dive.
Steering Ratio: 13.1:1
BMW F12 and F13 M6 Gallery
[Source: BMW]
Which would you rather have: the F12 M6 Coupe or F13 M6 Convertible? Leave a comment and let us know!
