2005 BMW 6 Series Review

The 6 Series may not have the sleek, sexy sheet metal of its Mercedes-Benz rivals, but its satisfying combination of performance, luxury and technology will put you on top of the world.

As sweet as the original M6 was back in its late-'80s heyday, the 2006 BMW M6 carries the Motorsport banner to new heights with specs that put the original to shame. With almost twice the cylinders, twice the horsepower and two extra gears to play with, the 21st-century M6 is in a whole different league.

Like the M5 sedan, the M6 is powered by a 5.0-liter V10 that pumps out 500 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. It's channeled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed SMG transmission and a variable differential that allows the M6 to hit 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, according to BMW. Electronic launch control assures perfect getaways every time while a twin-chambered exhaust gives the M6 a distinct sound compared to its sedan counterpart.

Although the M6 uses the same suspension design as the M5, its underpinnings were tuned to compensate for its shorter wheelbase and the lower center of gravity that results from its carbon-fiber roof. The revised suspension includes Electronic Damper Control (EDC) with three modes (normal, comfort and sport) that allow for varying levels of capability much like the two-stage stability control system. A power button on the console allows you to take it down a notch to just 400 hp for less hectic driving, and cross-drilled brake rotors assure plenty of stopping power.

Aesthetic alterations are few. The front air dam is the most obvious change as it opens wide to feed the high-revving engine and competition caliber brakes. The lightweight 19-inch wheels are surrounded by exaggerated side sills that emphasize the car's hunkered-down stance. It's finished off by a rear diffuser that reduces lift and four tailpipes that are a Motorsport trademark.