The BMW 650i, part of the E63 generation (facelifted in 2007), represented the high-performance variant of the 6 Series coupe and convertible lineup. Produced from 2007 to 2010, it occupied the top echelon of the range, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the 630i and 640i models. The E63 6 Series, as a whole, aimed to recapture the spirit of the original 6 Series coupes of the 1970s and 80s, blending luxury, performance, and distinctive styling. The 650i specifically targeted buyers seeking a grand touring experience with a powerful V8 engine and sophisticated technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series (E63, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 650i (367 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg, 17.8 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 249 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 222.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 297 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 367 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 490 Nm @ 3400 rpm (361.41 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N62B48B |
| Engine displacement | 4799 cm3 (292.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.2 l (15 US qt | 12.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1374 mm (54.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 96W RSC |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 650i was the N62B48B, a 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine was a significant departure from the inline-six engines traditionally favored by BMW. The N62 featured all-aluminum construction, double VANOS (variable valve timing) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and a relatively high 10.5:1 compression ratio. Fuel was delivered via multi-port fuel injection. The engine produced 367 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The “Steptronic” transmission was BMW’s name for its 6-speed automatic gearbox. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to have more control over gear selection. The transmission was tuned to provide smooth shifts and complement the V8’s power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 650i with the Steptronic transmission offered a refined and powerful driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as a 6-speed manual version, the automatic provided seamless acceleration and made the car exceptionally comfortable for long-distance cruising. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency. The 0-60 mph time of around 4.9 seconds was impressive for the era. Compared to the 640i, the 650i offered a substantial increase in power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration and more effortless passing maneuvers. The 650i’s weight distribution, combined with the sophisticated suspension, contributed to stable and predictable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 650i typically came standard with a high level of equipment, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included features like active steering, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and upgraded interior trim options. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The standard upholstery was typically leather, with a range of colors available. The dashboard featured wood or aluminum trim, depending on the chosen options.
Chassis & Braking
The E63 6 Series featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. The 650i typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering was a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The 650i’s suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride while still maintaining good body control during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 650i was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some critics noted the car’s relatively high price and complex electronics. Compared to the 640i, the 650i offered a significant performance advantage but came at a higher cost. Fuel economy was also lower with the V8 engine. Reliability was a mixed bag, with some owners reporting issues with the cooling system and electronic components. However, many 650i models have proven to be reliable over the long term with proper maintenance.
Legacy
The E63 650i remains a desirable grand tourer in the used car market. The N62 V8 engine, while known for some potential maintenance issues (such as coolant hose failures and oil leaks), is generally considered a robust and rewarding engine when properly maintained. The 650i’s combination of power, luxury, and distinctive styling has ensured its continued appeal to enthusiasts. Finding a well-maintained example is key, as preventative maintenance and addressing known issues are crucial for long-term reliability. The E63 generation 6 Series, and the 650i in particular, represents a bold and ambitious attempt by BMW to create a modern grand tourer that recaptures the spirit of its predecessors.
