What is it?

A BMW 6-series that very few people will buy, though lots of people ought to; a genuinely powerful diesel convertible with impressive economy, excellent refinement, and a great deal else to recommend it.

BMW has slotted the stonking twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight six from the 3-series and 5-series into its boulevard-cruising 6-series Convertible. Even though the engine provides over 280bhp, BMW claims 40.9mpg, so 600 miles between fill-ups should be possible.

What’s it like?

Pretty much the perfect long-distance open-top GT – as long as you don’t mind the looks. The huge surge of torque (428lb ft at 1750rpm) wafts the 635d along with ease and the six-cylinder diesel has got to be one of the most sonorous oil-burners around.

The rest – apart from a few mild mid-life cosmetic tweaks – is standard 6-series fayre. That means solid, secure handling, but not much in the way of sporting agility.

Should I buy one?

If you like the looks and the idea of a 6-series and you pay for your own fuel, yes, without question. However, the Coupe version, which is over £5k cheaper, will probably be the bigger seller. That's because many image-conscious 6-series convertible buyers will automatically be put off by the idea of a diesel engine, no matter how good it is or how much sense it makes.

More fool them we say because, whether it's in the coupe or the cabrio, this incredible oil-burner makes the 635d the best 6-series of the lot.


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My, my aren't you gorgeous.


M

After all these years, even with new cars such as the M3, X5 and X6 coming out, the 6er is still my favorite BMW. I find it absolutely awesome, especially in that blue color.

In Finland the car taxation will soon be based on emissions. BMW, especially the 635DA cabrio, will get a hefty price drop. This car will be 10 036 euros cheaper from 128 050 eur to 118 014 eur!!

On the other hand, gaz guzzler M6 will get a new price: 219 467 eur. That's a 48 767 eur more than today.

Yeah, and the SLK 320 CDI TriTurbo!! And now, the diesel is on the fast lane - in every car!

The SLK320 CDI TriTurbo was an awesome concept. What a little rocket that would have been!

Innovation has to come with timing... the world was just not ready.