The BMW 6 Series (E63) 630i, produced from 2004 to 2007, represented the entry point into BMW’s luxurious coupe and convertible range during that generation. Positioned below the 635i and 650i, the 630i aimed to offer a more accessible ownership experience without entirely sacrificing the grand touring character of the E63 platform. It was a key model in establishing the E63 as a competitor to vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class and Porsche 911, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and style. The 630i utilized BMW’s then-new N52 inline-six engine, paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series (E63) |
| Type (Engine) | 630i (258 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N52B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 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 | 1373 mm (54.06 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 | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears |
| Type of gearbox | manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 630i was the N52B30A, a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-six engine. This engine was a significant departure from the previous M54 generation, featuring a magnesium alloy engine block, plastic valve covers, and a more efficient combustion chamber design. The N52 utilized Double-VANOS (variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts) and a six-port intake manifold to optimize airflow and enhance torque across the rev range. Fuel delivery was handled by a Siemens multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 258 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common option, was a ZF 6HP series unit known for its smooth shifts and adaptability. It featured Steptronic manual shift mode, allowing drivers some control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 630i, particularly with the automatic transmission, offered a refined and comfortable grand touring experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 635i or 650i, it provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 6.2 seconds, respectable for the era. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, sometimes at the expense of immediate responsiveness. Compared to the six-speed manual, the automatic felt slightly less engaging, but it was preferred by many buyers for its ease of use. The N52 engine delivered a linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to modulate.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 630i came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included sport seats, a navigation system, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim options. The standard interior color schemes were typically conservative, with black, gray, and beige being the most common choices. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, with logically arranged controls and a clear instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The E63 630i utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but it still offered a secure and planted feel in corners. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS standard. The steering was a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the 630i for its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and attractive styling. However, some noted that it lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and class, averaging around 26 mpg combined. Compared to the 635i, the 630i offered a more affordable entry point into the E63 range, but it sacrificed some performance. The 630i was often seen as a more sensible choice for buyers who prioritized comfort and fuel efficiency over all-out speed.
Legacy
The N52 engine in the 630i proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Common issues included oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and occasional cooling system problems. The E63 630i has become a relatively affordable used grand tourer, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a stylish and comfortable coupe. While not as sought-after as the higher-performance models, the 630i offers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and value in the used car market. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts make it a viable option for those willing to perform their own maintenance.
