by Ross Finlay (14 Dec 04)

As the current series of BMW new model introductions continues, we were looking forward to the new 3-Series launch next spring. Suddenly, though, there's an even more alluring prospect, as BMW announces the details of the gorgeous-looking M6 coupé.

Low and sleek, with a restyled front end featuring a deeper air dam and additional air intakes, the M6 also has lightweight 19" five-spoke forged aluminium alloy wheels, reshaped side sills, and a still rather clumsy looking rear which nevertheless now has four tailpipes and a diffuser to emphasise that this is a car which really means business.

Under the bonnet lurks the same 507bhp five-litre V10 engine as in the M5 (more than 100bhp per litre being an M speciality) with 383lb/ft of torque and the ability to take the M6 from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds then on to a limited 155mph top speed which, without the limiter, would be over the 200mph mark.

All 6-Series models are lighter than they look, thanks to the aluminium-silicon construction of the engine block, as well as the mesmerising mixture of materials like aluminium, thermoplastics and SMC compound for the front wings, doors, bonnet and boot lid. The M6 goes further, trimming off still more weight thanks to the use of carbon fibre for the roof.

BMW and its M division have crammed the M6 with high technology features, from a start-up setting in which the car does without the last 107bhp of its power output, to a braking system which can haul the speed down from 100km/h to standstill in just 36 metres, and from 200km/h in 140 metres - that's 1.3g.

There's a lot about g forces in the specification, including something which ought to come into play only on track days - a force-fed oil supply which goes into action when it senses that the lateral forces have gone beyond 0.6g, on the way to a possible figure of more than 1.0g before spin-off, and makes sure that no areas of the engine are starved of lubricant.

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