2006, BMW, M6 E63
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PostedOct 16, 2025
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Following a hiatus in M6 production for 16 years, the M6 version of the E63/E64 6 Series was introduced in 2005. The M6 uses the same BMW S85 V10 engine and SMG-III automated manual gearbox as the E60 M5.
The M6 was produced as both a coupé (E63 model code) and a convertible (E64 model code). The exterior styling was overseen by Karl Elmitt.
The M6 had two modes for engine power: a "P400" mode in which the engine has a rated power output of 294 kW (394 hp) and a "P500" mode in which the engine has a rated power output of 373 kW (500 hp). Manufacturer claimed performance included a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 4.6 seconds.The top speed was electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph) or 305 km/h (190 mph) if the optional M-driver's package is fitted.
I purchased the vehicle through a damaged car auction. The fault was traced to failed throttle-body actuators—an issue commonly associated with BMW’s V10 engines—which caused the car to operate permanently in limp mode. I removed both the left- and right-hand actuators and replaced the worn nylon drive gears. These gears tend to seize with wear, subsequently damaging the electronic control circuits within the actuators. I also replaced the failed transistors in the electronic control unit (ECU). Following these repairs, the vehicle operated flawlessly.
The SMG III transmission required a period of adjustment to master, as it was somewhat clunky and lacked smoothness during low-speed urban driving. I found it performed more smoothly when driven in manual mode. The engine—a 5-litre V10 with a redline of 8,250 rpm—produced an incredible sound; at full throttle, it was reminiscent of a Formula One car.
After filling the fuel tank and consuming the first full tank, I jacked the car up to check for leaks. It had used fuel so quickly that I was convinced there must be one. Finding none, I contacted a friend who also owned an E63 M6. He laughed and told me, “No, that’s normal—these cars just use a lot of fuel.”
Front wheel drive- Rear wheel drive
- Four wheel drive
- Limited slip differential
- Overdrive