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One of the better looking BMW convertibles but cheap to buy and cheap to own are 2 very different things….

I ran one of these for a while, near identical to this, 4.8 v8. Don’t listen to the naysayers about the engine, it was incredibly reliable even at 125k. A fantastic car!

just got one, 55k miles , full serviced, convertible $14K , thing is a beast. fast as a vette and 4 seats, 2006 4.8 lt

Fantastic and timely video Jay. I have asked my wife watch it to reassure her that I’m not nuts. A month ago I bought a 2004 645Ci convertible for £2300 (having seen five others). I have loved the E63/64 since I owned the coupe a few years ago and traded it in for next to nothing, and missed it every day. Now I’ve spent another £3200 on discs, hubs, wheels refurb (all buckled), tyres and a thorough, oh so thorough, service. Now no leaks, no blue smoke, precise steering and much improved MPG. Second hand refurbished parts are cheap (Idrive screen £35, replacement rear view mirror £23, a/c compressor £120). It’s an easy project if you have a friendly BMW specialist.m and you’re not afraid to have a go at a few things yourself. Some work still to do but nothing urgent. Let’s say I’ll spend £7000 for a mint convertible that just keeps getting compliments and leaves any hot hatch in the dust. And it’s ULEZ compliant so I can drive it to work and suffer (enjoy) the “mid life crisis” jibes.

Had a 635d, absolutely loved it. Stage 1 map gives it the same power as the 650, 3x the economy and almost none of the problems. Annoyingly though, I’d still have the petrol one in a heartbeat. Shows how intoxicating that V8 can be!

With resources like the M539 Restorations channel, I would finally feel somewhat confident in buying one of these.

I recently bought a 650i coupé and I gotta say, It's a LOT of value for not all that much money. My biggest problem with the car is, as you have mentioned yourself, the fact that it makes literally no sound from that glorious V8.

I have my 2010 650i convertible being delivered this weekend. Can’t wait. Your video sealed the deal. Thank you James.

Hi Jay, That was fantastic, when it comes to reviewing the 6 series no-one does it quite like you. Great stuff!! I have a beautiful 635d and it's just superb. Thanks for the video Jay. Really enjoyed it. 👍🏻

I’ve got one, almost identical save for the soft close doors and Individual stereo. I’ve had it for 4 years, it is everything you say and is one of the best kept secrets for second hand car out there. I bought a well maintained one and that makes a difference as regular oil and coolant changes with BMW recommend fluids will keep a lot of the problems mentioned at bay. You simply cannot beat the sound of a V8 when you start it up or under acceleration. It simply wouldn’t be produced now, as it would need turbocharging to reduce the emissions and improve the fuel consumption, all of which softens and reduces the aural sensations of a naturally aspirated V8. Keep up the good work. Quite simply they don’t make them like this anymore and I, for one, will be keeping mine until I’m either too old to drive it, or the oil wells run dry. An excellent video giving well needed praise to a great car, and all that for 10% of its original purchase price!!

I always liked these and the video you did on the black coupe one a few years ago helped persuade me to buy it. I've had few niggles on it but they've been easy enough to fix myself. This doesn't detract from the pleasure it is to drive, makes everything so effortless and a great weekend cruiser. Even with a big old v8, its ULEZ complient and does 28mpg on a run, so normally works out cheaper than getting a train somewhere.

Always liked the 6 series cabrio.... Its the cost of running the thing that scares me to death!!

I’ve got a 2008 635d and it’s the best all rounder I’ve ever had. It’s running near 400bhp and 550lbft of torque. I’m seeing 42mpg daily. It’s smooth, powerful, handles nice on coil overs and stops fantastic on yellow stuff discs and pads. Keep the M6. Mine does the same job for less money 👍👍 Great car. Turns heads everywhere. Not many on the road at all. So it’s got a bit of exclusivity to it.

I have always felt these were such a beautiful Grand Touring car. Excellent review as always! Thank you, James.

Bought an e64 after your last review, not regretted it at all. Love it

Something about the headlights and blocky rear end I don't like. I think it's also cheaper because its styling is very divisive. That being said, you can't deny the beautiful engines in these.

I live in Ontario Canada and have an '04 645Ci conv M Sport with the SMG which I absolutely LOVE....Of the 135 cars I have owned, this is by far my very favorite...A keeper for life !!!

Brilliant! I may just look at the car again, after avoiding it for the usual BMW reasons. Thank you!

Your last video made me buy a 6 series, still got it and love it.

Great video. I purchased my 2010 650i Individual convertible (same color as yours) 4 years ago and have never regretted doing so. I've loved these cars since the first time I saw one in 2006. Mine had 37,000 miles on it when I bought it and it's just getting ready to hit the 50,000 mile mark. (I have 2 other cars) So far, I've changed the run-flats for Michelin pilot sports and had new new coil packs installed. As far as anything failing, the only part that has failed was the windshield washer pump. The car goes in for it's 4th oil change this June .... oil changes averaging every 3,100 miles or so. The car looks great and it is certainly fun to drive. Thanks for the video.

Man oh man I really enjoy your videos, they are really natural haha. Great content and great review.

James the SMG is FANTASTIC.....It is nowhere as bad as you suggest.....Its wonderful

It’s not as fun as this but I’ve got a2012 330D convertible - has a lot of the same bits as this and absolutely love this gen of bmw - great vid as always!

Great video James! Thoroughly enjoyed this, and thought it was very well balanced towards the 6er! BMW referred to the sequential option in non M-Power cars of the time as SSG. I sold BMWs during this era and had many an E46 325/330 and a 645ci SSG as demos. They were kiss of death stuff for resale, and horrible to drive! And yes, manual box on 6er was not nice! Baulky and massively long throw. Very agricultural in feel, and not suited to the enthusiastic driver - 6spd auto (esp on facelift models) was much better fit and enjoyable

Funny you've reviewed this as I was torn between S8 or M6.i picked up my S8 on Sunday, no regrets.

I really like the look of those analog gauges

Another fantastic video James. I bought an early 2007 650i Sport Individual Coupe in Aegean Blue Metallic just a couple of months ago and I absolutely love it. Your previous video on the 650i was a big deciding factor on me finally buying it (thanks 😁👍🏻) I’ve always loved the looks and they have been a car I’ve always wanted and that engine is absolutely fantastic. I paid £7000 and still can’t believe what I’ve got for the money. I’m averaging around 25 mpg which I think is very good. I also agree about the muted sound and therefore had some subtle changes made to the exhaust just so that I and others can hear that beautiful V8. I use mine as my daily and everyone loves it and it gets looks everywhere I go, you don’t see many around. Cheers 😉👌🏻👍🏻

Not a BMW fan at all - except for 2 things. I love the KZfaq channel of M539 and the 6 series. This is a really nice car!

I have the later model 640d convertible, and it's a fantastic car. I've had it for about 8 years, and love every second of driving it. I had it remapped and it's now got 400bhp, and remapped gearbox means that in sport mode it's far more responsive, and it still does around 40mpg. It's nearly 13 years old and I still love it.

Well done on these cars, great review. I had an M6, fabulous to look at and to drive BUT niggly but expensive problems kept coming up even though serviced at main dealer, now sold. I like the 650i version here BUT people mention that problems with the roof performing can be a headache, so jury still out on whether to take the plunge. They look fabulous for the money though!

We are still waiting for you to get that E63/4 M6 :) I've always liked the rear better than the front. Love the pillarless look with the roof up. Only thing I wish the Coupe had, more in line with my old 850CSi

I have to say I'm both jealous and happy for you James you have crafted yourself a near ideal career. 👍👍

I've had a white 630i Cabrio LCI with beige interior from brand new (2008) the last in line 6 cilinders NA engine produced by BMW, 3 pedals, manual transmission, kept it for 13 years untill I've moved to UK. List price was about 90 000 euros (80 000 gbp) but the car was special and still turns heads 20 years later, it was a very nice ride, I've enjoyed every moment driving it! Timeless Bangle design! Never gets old!

Great to revisit the 6… I’ve always liked them too 🥰

One of the most beautiful and iconic GTs ever built. Best car I've ever had, won't sell mine. All the tons of parroting, these cars are just broken, etc. This is mostly said by the guys who get the cheapest tinkered boxes on the market because they don't have n money for well-maintained models.

Had a new 650 coupe in sport trim 2008. 2 years and 60000 flawless miles. Many 500 mile days. Without doubt one of the best cars all round cars I’ve owned.

I have to agree with you James, in fact it was the last review you did on the E63 persuaded me to bite the bullet and buy one, I had it all for 2 months when it was ran into, and I went out and bought another one and as to economy I can get 35mpg out of mine on a run and 20-21mpg around the streets, I believe that values are going to go through the roof in the near future, just like the E46 and E31 8 series, for years the E31 were cheap and no one wanted them, and in a relatively short period from worthless to expensive the 8series they is now sought after

You should add that in the convertibles the water drain holes need to be air blown out to clear debris otherwise water will overflow into the trunk causing the srs or amp or both to fry causing you to lose all sound because all sound, including the door chime runs on a fiberoptic wire.

I like these 6 series even from the beginning. I really do like the way they look.

After u done the first 650I video...I went n sold the 45 n got a vertible 50..n I'm happy

I have a 635d in black with cream leather and love it, fast, comfortable and ok on juice (40mpg) I know it's not everyone's cup of tea but it the quality is the best and the m57 engine is solid

On the V8 the crankshaft bearings is something that should be replaced at around 100k miles before they start scoring the crankshaft. Also leaky valve stem seals seems to be a common issue. But if you take care of these things and service it regularly it should be solid.

Great video. I love this car !

Dude, with your videos I hit the like button Before watching the video!

Buying a 2010 650i convertible on Monday. Can’t wait.

Nice review JayEmm. May I ask to review of the following generation convertible at some point?

Yup! I had an e63 650i manual transmission from 2019 - 2020 and it was amazing! Sad I sold it 😢

I test drove a 550i manual (1/8 iirc) when I was looking to replace my old 330d e92 and I was blown away by the mighty V8, however after a huge inspection by myself I’d discovered although a great spec, wonderful drive and incredible vehicle to behold it was unfortunately suffering every known issue and leak mentionable. I couldn’t justify the cost of the car plus all the maintenance. But a great experience never the less.

Also in 2008 the N52 was replaced with the N53 engine. Going from about 250bhp to 272bhp. I had an early 2009 model had no issues with is apart from having to clean out the Vanos solenoid valves. One car I wish I never sold now.

Just put a deposit on one following your review. Picking up 1st June. I’ve been missing my Maserati Grancab ever since I sold it 2 years ago to fund another purchase, so have bought one of these with just 54k miles, FSH for just £8k. Cheap luxurious convertible transport 👍😮

had a 650 coupe for 2 years - loved that car!

Looked at the six series convertible a few years back but as I didn't need the rear seats and for the same money I went for an SL500, 2006 with the later 5.5l, it felt a lot quicker, more premium, better put together, sounded nicer, better engineered with less plastic parts and didn't have any scuttle shake, haven't looked back.

I’ve just bought a 2012 640d convertible I’m really impressed with it, everything you say rings a bell, I did actually offer you a test drive of it and now understand why you didn’t reply as you already had one to test! Great review as always, thank you😊

Always wanted one. Throw in an ls with a t56 and call it a day. It's almost the exact size and weight of an s550 mustang, and less than 200 pounds heavier than an e90. It's a perfect platform to do that to

Always loved the 6. Would love a first gen 645ci coupe. Buyer beware, I’ve had an X5 with this engine and gearbox. Gearboxes need a service to keep them shifting smooth. If they are hanging and lurching, walk away. Engine will be leaking from rocker cover gasket, valve head covers and again beware valve head covers are plastic, and will warp and crack and deteriorate and they are about £1200 each side.

Surprised not to see Timm (hello!) in the passenger seat! Loved my 'baby' 630i! I'm now enjoying a 640d as the weekend toy. Love the newer tech and nicer (?) interior of the f13. But, at a push, I'd say my older e63 630i was a prettier car on the outside. That shark nose, and big bum! 😊

I’ve got at 650i sport coupe, 46k miles. It’s epic - I’ve owned it for 2.5yrs. Never let’s me down, no oil or coolant leaks. I agree with James has said. And because mine was a UK car first registered in the Isle of Man, it’s ULEZ and clean air zone free. 💥 A fab GT car.

The E93 bmw convertible will always be one of my favourite looking convertibles that BMW made.

Wonderful video.

645 V8 , I have one , love it ! Value for money , needs a few thousand spent but totally worth it , what can I replace it with? Nothing to get the same , without spending tens of thousands, so I’ll happily spend whatever to keep it alive … classic as and not wanting some newer crap peice

Happy with the look of the 6 series, both coupe and convertible, but what surprised me was how compromised the room was inside. I have got a 3 series E93 convertible and for rear occupants, it has proper seats. My six foot son is happy in the back of the 3 series. He wouldn't fit in the 6 series. Plus you cannot get away from the cloth roof, as at speed, noise is an issue.

TY! 🙏🙏

Great video James! Sounds great! Ps sent you an email regarding a couple of cars you may want to film on your next trip to Scotland/ Glasgow area.

I bought a 630i shortly after your last 650i video. Have put 30k miles on it and I love it. It rarely feels underpowered on a B road, especially higher in the revs, and is surprisingly chuckable - I think the I6 is rather lighter than the V8.

This is what I driving currently. I had it for awhile and I’ve had very little problems with it but as of late I’ve been running into a few issues. 1. Transmission malfunction $1400, 2. the computer chip got wet ( I have no idea how that happened) $400 ( my mechanic gave me a great deal) 3. I had to replace the catalytic converter $1500. Over 3k in the past few months. However it like a true “Ultimate Driving Machine”! Money well spent! #6Series

Thank you James. You’ve given me a viable option for the ‘can’t yet afford a Ferrari but still want a third car’ dilemma. And a third the price of a 911 cabrio! Cabrio makes it that bit different

Wow this car is in amazing condition! I'd like to see you review a stock Z4 35is. The metal roof gives you a coupe and a convertible in one. They forgot to put a cupholder in that too! 😅 I'd like to hear how it compares to other convertibles and sports cars. I think it's quite well judged.

Old Z4s are great fun and a good deal too. Just be sure to get the M54 engined examples. Crazy that my E46 coupe is worth more than a 6 these days.

Ever since watching that unforgettable Top Gear episode from 2004 in which James May tested the then-new 645Ci in Wales (and was later joined by Jeremy in the XKR and Richard in the 911 Carrera, and they drag raced on the Pendine Sands beach), I've counted the E63 6 Series, more specifically the aforementioned 645Ci, as one of my favourite BMWs ever. It looks so good (and yes, the rear is odd looking, but it has grown on me) and I also think it's so much more sensible in the real world compared to the M6, without really having many drawbacks.

I've never liked the look of these really but as they age the design is growing on me. Still wouldn't call it a good looking car but I'd no longer describe it as ugly. I considered one but in the end went for an early naturally aspirated x150 Jaguar XK, my shout for the best value gt under 10k. I absolutely love it, and that I would say is one of the best looking cars ever made, still turns heads wherever you take it.

james always exposing the used car gems!

Big fan of the E64! Would like to own one someday.

Been thinking about a hardtop one of these as a weekender

Had the launch car back in 2003 Reg RN53 YPD black 645ci, changed to the M6 in 2007, had it replaced twice by BMW GB due to poor reliability

I have one and they are amazing, running Cody can be expensive , new seal on transmission $ 1500, control arms $900.

Watching this on my way to pick up a blue on cream one owner 75k miles 630i coupe with sunroof and logic 7. They will be 10k plus in 5 years! Cheers James.

Really love this car. Just treat her special and kind and she will reward you.

I love the rear end...I would love to cut this back end & put it onto a 1994 850i with the pop up head lights & the V10 engine:)

After 135 cars, my 645Ci conv. SMG is far and away the best car I have ever owned

This car, along with 635Csi and 850i, are my ALL time favourite BMW grand tourers.... Barring the ultra rare M1 of course

We have a 645ci 2005 done 67k miles and still one of the best BMW’s we have had drives as good as the day we got it

I have a 630i 2009 lci manual , had it for 13years and love it , I keep threatening to get a new car but can’t seem to part with it , it’s worth way more to me than market value , I just pump a £1k or so every year or two Into it keeping it running like new and it’s very cheap motoring in reality , I’ve replaced everything with OEM parts , has 105000 miles , I’ve refreshed front wishbones , track rod ends drop links , brakes all round , water pump , starter , still feels and drives fresh , doubt I’ll ever be able to sell it , thinking of updating g the head unit to one of these android / apple car play units to bring that up to date

Very valid point on the M vs 650i. I would by far daily my 650i instead of v10 e61 M5. Yes more top end power, but daily comfort and driving pleasure, 650i is hard to beat. Hence I still have it 220k miles later

I'm very tempted by these. But it would have to be the 635d convertible. I do lots of miles so need the economy. From the few owners I've spoken to, they have genuinely loved them and the twin turbo diesel is an absolute peach. So I'm kinda sold!

You forgot the 635d. Also the sculptured bonnet was standard to all late 2009 and 2010 cars

Last year I bought a 2008 650i (coupe) based, in significant part on Jay's previous review because it sounded like everything I wanted; I wanted a big comfy 2+2 GT that wasn't going to cost me the earth in running and servicing. I have always liked the looks of the 6-Series, and I genuinely love mine and I am eternally grateful to Jay for his review back in the day. The way I categorise the 650i (And 645ci) is as a "Working-Man's Bentley Conti GT" because it does everything a Conti does, but without Bentley servicing costs, as it is "just" a BMW to service and maintain, which means it is relatively affordable to run as well as purchase. I do like the interior as well, mine has the cream leather, and the i-Drive does mean the interior is fairly minimal and so still feels modern with all the features you want in a car, bar a couple of give-aways. The N62 engine isn't even as bad for reliability as suggested. The niggles are expensive yes, but the advice I took (and happily repeat) is that it's a complex, high-tech engine and it NEEDS regular TLC, but if you give it proper, regular maintenance then it is a fairly reliable engine, and the coolant transfer pipe is mostly luck, there's no rhyme or reason that decides when/if it fails. Because I am an engineering nerd, I love the fact about the aerodynamic wind-tunnel work on the rear lights and I have absolutely been in plenty of "Oh crap I'm going WAY faster than I thought I was" moments.

It's be interesting to see how you feel about the next gen, even the 640d

I've always loved the 8 Series. Wonder what sort of a buy that'd be.

Good call Jay. These are a bargain and that's a wonderful engine to punt it along as well.

you have me looking, was looking for a good example 335i coupe as I had one back in 2009 - 2012 but maybe I'll try the v8

Big fan from Nigeria

Yeah 330ci manual 3.5k and up now for a decent one few years back you could get them for 1500-2k

Space, grace, and pace.

Reminds me of old Top Gear with Quentin Wilson telling me a pre Vw Bentley could be ran on a Toyota Corolla budget 😀

Camchain on big BMWs effectively writes them off. Parts are cheap, it's the labour as its a massive job....

I have always thought about these. Having had a few BMWs in the past, I would put to you the Mercedes SL R230 generation as a similar kind of proposition, whilst not as powerful it is a bit smaller. Might be worth seeing if you could get hold of a SL500 to see how they compare.

650i and M6 V10 Cabriolet are BEAUTIES ❤❤😍😍

I have a 56 plate E64 and can say what a truly special car it is.

Nice one James. I have a 2010 Jaag XK 5.0 Portfolio coupe that I adore. I've had to stop feeding the kids, to stop them growing as I don't want to be forced to change cars. When I do eventually change it will likely be a Series 1 Cayenne Turbo, similar to my one in the UK that you featured a while ago. Lots of horsepower for the money, super practical, comfortable and in my mind more like a GT car than an SUV. Maybe I'm deluded. Anyway, my question; how do you think the 650i compares to both the XK and the Cayenne Turbo?