The BMW M6 Convertible (F12M, with the LCI or Life Cycle Impulse facelift introduced in 2014) represents the high-performance, open-top variant of BMW’s flagship 6-Series. Produced from 2014 to 2018, this model combined the luxurious appointments of the 6-Series Convertible with the potent performance characteristics of BMW’s M division. The F12M M6 Convertible was positioned as the ultimate expression of open-air grand touring, offering a blend of exhilarating speed, sophisticated technology, and premium comfort. It sat at the pinnacle of the 6-Series range, significantly outperforming the standard 6-Series models in terms of power, handling, and overall driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M6 |
| Generation | M6 Convertible (F12M, LCI, facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (560 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg, 7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 239 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 282.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 343.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 560 Hp @ 6000-7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 127.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 680 Nm @ 1500-5750 rpm (501.54 lb.-ft. @ 1500-5750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S63B44B |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 18.5 l (19.55 US qt | 16.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2410 kg (5313.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4898 mm (192.83 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Height | 1368 mm (53.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2851 mm (112.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1631 mm (64.21 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 107 mm (4.21 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 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 | 7 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 | 265/40 ZR19 102Y; 295/35 ZR19 104Y |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5 J x 19; 10.5 J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2014-2018 M6 Convertible is BMW’s S63B44B 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, a member of the N63 family, was heavily revised by BMW M for increased performance and durability. It features direct fuel injection, a flat-plane crankshaft, and extensive use of lightweight materials. The twin-turbochargers are positioned within the V of the engine, minimizing turbo lag and maximizing responsiveness. The engine produces 560 horsepower at 6,000-7,000 rpm and a substantial 680 Nm (501.54 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1,500 rpm all the way to 5,750 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to the M6’s effortless acceleration. The engine is paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, specifically tuned for rapid and precise gear changes. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Driving Characteristics
The M6 Convertible, even with the automatic transmission, delivers a thrilling driving experience. The 4.4-liter V8 provides immense power, allowing for rapid acceleration in any gear. The automatic transmission is well-programmed, offering smooth shifts during normal driving and aggressive, quick shifts in Sport mode. While some purists prefer the engagement of a manual transmission, the M Steptronic automatic is remarkably capable and contributes to the car’s overall usability. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.1 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The convertible top, a multi-layer soft top, can be raised or lowered in approximately 30 seconds at speeds up to 25 mph.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M6 Convertible came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, navigation, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included upgraded leather, carbon fiber interior trim, a head-up display, and active roll stabilization. The LCI facelift brought minor interior updates, including revised trim options and improved iDrive infotainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The M6 Convertible features a sophisticated chassis designed to maximize handling and stability. The suspension utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both tuned for performance. Adaptive dampers are standard, allowing the driver to adjust the suspension stiffness to suit their preferences. The braking system consists of large, ventilated discs at all four corners, with multi-piston calipers providing powerful stopping power. The car also features BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, which helps to maintain control in challenging driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The M6 Convertible was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and engaging driving dynamics. However, some critics noted the car’s considerable weight, which slightly diminished its agility compared to the M6 Coupe. Compared to other high-performance convertibles of the time, such as the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, the M6 offered a more luxurious and comfortable experience, albeit with slightly less focused handling. Fuel economy, while respectable for a car of this performance, was not a strong point, averaging around 22.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The F12M M6 Convertible remains a desirable grand tourer in the used car market. The S63B44B engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional turbocharger problems, but these are typically addressed with preventative maintenance. The car’s combination of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment continues to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a high-end convertible experience. As a final iteration of the F12 6-Series, the LCI M6 Convertible represents a refined and capable machine that embodies BMW’s M division’s commitment to performance and engineering excellence.
