The new generation BMW M6 is preparing to rev its way to dealerships in Summer 2012 after its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and its promising to be the most powerful super-coupe in BMW’s history. Its twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 552 HP and 502 lb ft of torque makes it capable of running its owner to their job on a daily basis, as well as running the track in superior fashion. That being said, a BMW insider has stated that the M6 should not be referred to as a "pure sports car." That designation should be left to the super car that the BMW M Division is trying to develop, again.
"M wants to build its own car. BMW has a great heritage of super-coupés and the M6 is the latest part of that. But we also want to do something that we can call a ’super sports car’."
By the time this M Division super car is ready to be launched, BMW is hoping it will take on vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG with ease. BMW and its M Division have been trying to come up with a business case for the future super car for a long time, using the BMW M1 Hommage (pictured above) as a starting point. When that concept first debuted in 2008, it was rumored to get a powerful V10 5.0 liter engine capable of delivering 600+ HP, even though the original 1978 BMW M1 only pushed out 270 HP.
We figure that if BMW can attempt at least a happy medium between the original 270 HP and the rumored 600 HP, then the M Division’s super car may be a tough contender in the tough "pure sports car" market. Let us know what you think in the comments section below!
After unveiling the 6-Series Gran Coupe at the end of 2011, BMW has started testing the most powerful version in the series: the M6 Gran Coupe. Interested buyers will have to wait until the end of 2012 before actually laying their eyes on it, but we can assure you that it will be worth the wait.
As with any other M6 model in BMW’s line-up, the Gran Coupe will be distinguished by a more aggressive and sportier look compared to the standard model. The list of changes will include more aggressive front and rear fascias with the usual M-type elements, larger wheels, and, of course, a quad-exhaust system.
As far as power goes, the M6 Gran Coupe will be powered by the same turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 engine found in the M6 Coupe with about 600 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque on tap. What’s better is that BMW will be offering the M6 Gran Coupe in both coupe and convertible versions.
Spy shots for the BMW M6 Coupe are splattered all over the internet at this point, but now our spy photographers have moved on to the drop top version of the sports car, which looks to be just about ready for its closeup. This near-final M6 Convertible caught testing looks stunning in gray, a change up from the black M6 Coupe testers pictured before. Its debut should a few months after the M6 Coupe’s official debut in March 2012 at the Geneva Motor Show.
As with the coupe version, the M6 Convertible will be distinguished by a larger air dam, a lower bumper, a new bullish nose, and a bulging bonnet with air intakes positioned at each corner. At the rear, it will receive new quad exhaust pipes, a wider track, and a new bumper with an integrated rear diffuser.
In terms of power, BMW has opted to transfer the turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 - first used in the M5 - over to the M6. This engine will provide the sports car with 600 HP and about 550 lb-ft of torque. up from the M5’s 560 HP. Those extra ponies won’t matter as much since the top speed as been electronically limited to 155 mph. The 0 to 60 mph sprint will be made in under 4.5 seconds.
UPDATE 12/23/2011: BMW has confirmed that the most powerful version in the 6-Series line-up - the M6 Convertible - will be making its world debut in just a few weeks at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, along with the ActiveHybrid 3.
While many are sitting back, patiently waiting for the arrival of the BMW M6, German tuner Alpina has been hard at work on a project that will shed some light on the future model. Their new B6 Biturbo Coupe may not be as impressive as the upcoming M6, which is rumored to deliver about 600 HP, but it’s here now. Plus, we’re sure Alpina left enough room for a new tuning package for the M6.
But back to their Alpina B6 Biturbo Coupe. The B6 is an evolution of the old 507 HP B6 cabrio, but uses an aluminum twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, equipped with MAHLE pistons and a high-performance cooling system. This setup is give for a total output of 540 HP and 516 lb-ft of torque. With the extra power, the B6 Biturbo will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and will hit a top speed of 198 mph. Alpina has also opted for a Akrapovic titanium exhaust system that will make the car sound better than ever and, of course, a new set of 20" Alpina Classic rims fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
For the aerodynamic updates, the B6 BiTurbo Coupe has been fitted with a front spoiler, an integrated carbon fiber front splitter, and a rear spoiler with an optional rear wing. The interior was also revamped with a sport steering wheel, hand-stitched in LAVALINA leather, blue illuminated entry sills, a navigation system with preparation for Bluetooth mobile phone, USB audio interface, Xenon lights, and LED fog lights.
There seems to always be hype and rumors circulating around this car, and it’s increased since the F10 M5 launch is around the corner. Traditionally, the M5 and M6 have shared a lot of similar kit, mainly, the same engine and gearbox. This would explain why potential buyers and M fans are looking at the new M5 through a microscope – to gauge what surprises the top of the range M car will bring. The new M6 will have a lot to live up to based on the outgoing V10 model. The beast showcased the fruits of BMW’s F1 escapades, with the use of lightweight composite materials in its construction, F1-derived V10 engine, and adjustable suspension. While it wasn’t everyone’s favorite in the looks department, no one could take anything away from its scintillating performance. The new 6 should be much better to look at and even better to drive, according to the info we have managed to amass.
UPDATE 12/01/2011: Up until now, we have only heard lots of rumors about the upcoming BMW M6, but we can officially confirm that the M6 Cabrio will be launched in June 2012 and it will be followed by the coupe version three months later. BMW is also preparing an M version for the upcoming 6-Series Grand Coupe. It will be launched in 2013. (Autofans)
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