BMW 6 Series F12

6 Series in brief

The first 6 Series (E24) was produced from 1976 to 1989, and after a long hiatus, the model returned in 2003 as the E63 coupé and E64 convertible. In 2011, the F Series generation was introduced: the F13 coupé, F12 convertible and, from 2012, the four-door F06 Gran Coupé.

The 6 Series is technically close to the 5 Series, but it is lower, more elegant and more luxuriously equipped. In 2018, the coupé, convertible and Gran Coupé were replaced by the 8 Series, and the 6 Series nameplate was used until 2023 by the G32 Gran Turismo — a practical five-door car with a large boot.

Which generation to choose

The E63/E64 generation (2003–2010) is the cheapest today, but it is already old: most cars have high mileage, and the V8 and V10 engines along with complex electronics require significant maintenance costs. It suits those who value appearance and can afford the upkeep.

The F12/F13/F06 generation (2011–2018) is the most popular in the used market: modern, quiet, with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and plenty of kit. The 2015 facelift models got improved headlights (often fully LED), a newer infotainment system and a bit more power. For many buyers, this is the best choice.

G32 Gran Turismo (2017–2023) — a completely different car: taller, roomier, with a large rear hatch. It's ideal for those who prioritise space and comfort over a coupe silhouette.

Engines and transmissions

The F series most commonly features the 640d — a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel with twin turbochargers (around 313 hp). Petrol variants include the 640i (3.0-litre, around 320 hp) and 650i (4.4-litre V8, around 407–450 hp). The M6 has a 4.4-litre V8 (around 560 hp, more in Competition versions). Some versions offered xDrive all-wheel drive.

The E63/E64 most commonly comes with the 630i (3.0-litre, six cylinders), 645Ci and 650i (V8), and the 635d diesel (around 286 hp). The M6 had a 5.0-litre V10 engine (around 507 hp) and an SMG automated manual transmission. The G32 Gran Turismo was offered with 620d, 630d, 630i, 640i, and other engines.

F series cars almost all have an eight-speed automatic transmission, praised for its smoothness and reliability, while the M6 has a seven-speed dual-clutch M DCT transmission. The E63/E64 had manual, automatic, or SMG transmissions.

What to check when buying a used BMW 6 Series

In 650i models with the N63 V8 engine, high oil consumption, oil leaks, and issues with the timing chain and injectors are known problems, so a full service history and diagnostic check are essential. Six-cylinder petrol engines often suffer from oil leaks through the oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets.

Check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR system on the 640d, especially if the car has done a lot of city driving. A cold engine shouldn't misfire. Older E63 M6 models often have issues with the SMG gearbox and spark plug wells in the V10 engine — such a car is only worth buying with a full history.

On the convertible, open and close the roof a few times and check for any moisture in the cabin. In all cars, make sure the multimedia system, cameras, heads-up display, and driver assistance features work, and that the suspension doesn't clunk over bumps.

Variants

The equipment of the BMW 6 Series depends on the engine and optional packages, so cars with the same name can differ significantly. We list the variants most commonly found in Europe.

Comparison of F12/F13/F06 generation versions

For most buyers, the best choice is the 640d: it's quick, economical, and most commonly found on the market. The 650i and M6 are worth considering only with a clear service history and prepared for higher costs.

Frequently asked questions