2007 BMW M6 Convertible

Opening up the M6

A new version of the BMW M6 Convertible puts the wind in your hair and 500 hp beneath your right foot.

A convertible version of BMW’s super-high-performance M6 Coupe debuts for 2007. Other than the top,  it is mechanically identical to the coupe. The convertible comes with a fully automatic, retractable, multilayered fabric top that keeps the cockpit well insulated from noise and the elements when the weather turns nasty.

Like the BMW 650i Convertible on which it’s based, the new M6 Convertible features a unique glass rear window that can be raised and lowered independently of the folding fabric top. When left up while the top is down, it serves as a wind blocker to quell cabin turbulence — or it can allow more ventilation when lowered while the top is up.

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The heart and soul of the M6 is a brawny, 5.0-liter V10 that it shares with the M5 sedan. It’s mated to the industry’s first seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), also found on the M5, which is essentially a manual transmission whose clutch is engaged automatically (there’s no clutch pedal). Gears are selected by tapping paddles behind the steering wheel or by using the stubby shift lever on the center console. An automatic mode shifts gears for the driver, approximating a traditional automatic transmission, though it isn’t as smooth in operation.

Despite the car’s hefty curb weight of more than two tons, BMW claims a top speed of 155 mph. One downside, besides possible speeding tickets, is a federal gas-guzzler tax for the privilege of going that fast.

Performance and handling characteristics of the BMW M6 Convertible can be tailored to suit a wide range of driving styles and preferences. In theory such customization is a boon to enthusiasts looking to squeeze as much performance out of the car as possible, but the sheer complexity of the systems can be daunting.

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Three different engine settings offer progressively more explosive performance. The transmission allows 11 different shift programs, while the electronically adjustable suspension offers three levels of shock-absorber firmness — normal, comfort and sport.

In all, BMW says these systems combine for a dizzying total of 279 possible combinations of settings. Fortunately, the car’s M Drive function allows drivers to store preferred settings for each of these systems into one program, which can be engaged by pressing the “M” button on the steering wheel.

The car’s stability control system, which uses throttle and brake control to minimize wheel spin and maintain control during extreme handling maneuvers, can be set to a more aggressive M Dynamic mode that allows a higher level of wheel slip. It can also be turned off altogether, which would allow the car to be coaxed into controlled skids around curves, called drifting.

BMW M6 Convertible Vehicle Summary

Exterior styling differences that distinguish the BMW M6 Convertible from the standard BMW 650i Convertible are subtle, including a unique front-air dam that channels extra air to the engine and brakes; a special rear air-diffuser that improves aerodynamics; quad exhaust tips; front-fender side gills; sculpted rocker panels; and special side mirrors and wheels.

The interior is similar to the 650i’s and affords eight upholstery choices, including five optional leather treatments.

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BMW’s iDrive system is standard. It combines all of the interior controls into one large knob on the center console that manipulates menus on a dash-mounted screen. Despite some redundant buttons and knobs for stereo and heating/ventilation systems, iDrive can prove difficult to master, which is the opposite of its intent.

As with the BMW 650i, the BMW M6 cockpit is comfortable — at least for front-seat occupants. It includes a wealth of standard comfort and convenience features and few options, like a head-up display, keyless access/starting system, high-definition radio and satellite radio.

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The standard navigation system includes a Real Time Traffic Information feature that’s able to warn of imminent back-ups down the road and suggest alternate routes; a four-year subscription to the service that provides this information is included.

BMW calls the M6 Coupe a “2+2,” with seating for four occupants, but the vestigial rear-seat area works better as a padded cargo shelf. The four-door BMW M5 Sedan is a more practical choice in this regard.