The coupe and convertible versions of the M6 are following the BMW M5 and the Audi RS6 in performance car heaven (don’t worry, you can always unleash the 500 to 600 hp by purchasing a second hand example).
The move has a deeper significance for the automotive enthusiasts over the world, as it also marks the stage exit of the M division’s 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 powerplant.
Introduced to celebrate BMW’s Formula 1 activity back in 2005 (which has also become nothing more than a memory meanwhile), the 4,999 cubic centimeters unit has been one of the sweetest contemporary engines money can buy. Offering 507 hp at 7,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) at 6,100 rpm, the engine has been more than happy to push the vehicle onto a top speed of 209 mph (336 km/h). This is a reported unrestricted value (the factory installs an electronic limiter that cuts the fun at 155 mph/250 km/h).
The BMW M6 will certainly get a replacement, as Carsten Pries, the M division’s product manager has confirmed this. However, the launch date for the upcoming vehicle has not been offered yet.
The new M6 will switch to forced induction, using (a modified version of) the 4.4-liter turbocharged engine that was introduced on the X5M/X6M non-identical twins. In its current form, the 4,395 cubic centimeters unit develops 555 hp at 6,000 rpm and 501 lb-ft (679 Nm) of torque at 5,650 rpm.
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