BMW E63 6 Series buying guide: coupé and convertible
The E63 and E64 6 Series brought the 6 Series name back in 2003. This guide covers the engines, gearboxes, convertible roof, common issues and what to check before buying.
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The E63 6 Series coupé and E64 convertible were launched in 2003, bringing back the 6 Series name after the classic E24. With their bold styling, comfortable interiors and powerful engines, they were designed as luxurious grand tourers.
Today, the E63 6 Series is an affordable way into a large, stylish BMW coupé or convertible. But it is a complex car, and running costs can be high. This guide explains the engines, versions, common issues and what to check before you buy.
The return of the 6 Series
The original E24 6 Series ended production in 1989, and the 8 Series E31 took its place. In 2003, BMW revived the 6 Series name with the E63 coupé and later the E64 convertible.
The design was controversial at first, but many people now see it as a modern classic. The cars were based on the E60 5 Series, sharing engines and much technology. Our E60 530d buying guide explains some of the shared parts.
Engines
The E63 6 Series was offered with several engines:
- 630i: the N52 straight-six petrol, smooth and generally dependable. Our article on the BMW N52 engine explains it.
- 645Ci: a 4.4-litre V8 petrol in early cars.
- 650i: a 4.8-litre V8 petrol, introduced in 2005.
- 635d: a twin-turbo six-cylinder diesel with strong torque.
- M6: the V10 M version. Our article on BMW M6 history explains it.
The 630i and 635d are often the most sensible choices, while the V8 models offer more performance and sound.
Gearboxes
The E63 6 Series was offered with a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic and, in some versions, the SMG automated manual gearbox. The automatic is the most common and suits the grand touring character. SMG gearboxes need careful checking, because the hydraulic pump and clutch can be expensive. Our article on manual vs SMG vs DCT vs Steptronic explains the differences.
E63 6 Series common issues
Points to check include:
- V8 valve stem seals and oil leaks, which can cause oil consumption and smoke on start-up.
- Coolant pipes and cooling system parts. Our article on BMW cooling system problems explains them.
- Active Steering and Dynamic Drive, which can develop hydraulic leaks or faults.
- Electrical faults, including the battery, modules and comfort functions.
- Convertible roof hydraulics on the E64.
- Suspension bushes on a heavy car.
- Brakes and tyres, which are large and costly.
The E64 convertible
The E64 has a fabric roof with a separate glass rear window that can be lowered with the roof up. It is a comfortable four-seat convertible, ideal for touring.
Check that the roof operates smoothly, that there are no hydraulic leaks and that the interior is dry. Our article on BMW convertible roof care explains how to look after the roof.
The 2007 facelift
The 2007 facelift brought revised lights, a new interior design and updated technology. The 635d also arrived around this time. Facelift cars are often more desirable, but condition and history matter more than age.
Equipment also varies a lot. Many cars have the Sport package, comfort seats, a head-up display or adaptive headlights, while others are more basic. Check that every option fitted to the car works correctly, because repairs to electronic modules, displays and lights can be expensive on a car of this age.
Running costs
The 630i and 635d are the cheapest to run. The V8 models use more fuel and can need costly repairs. Insurance can be high, and tyres and brakes are expensive. Budget for preventive maintenance, especially on high-mileage cars.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Start the engine cold and watch for blue smoke.
- Listen for rattles from the engine and timing chain.
- Test the gearbox for smooth shifts.
- Test the roof on convertible cars several times.
- Check all electrical functions.
- Read the fault memory.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW M car covers many checks that apply to any BMW.
E63 6 Series: points to remember
Look for a car with full service history and evidence of preventive maintenance, especially on V8 models. Check the condition of the interior leather and the convertible roof. A specialist inspection is recommended, because some faults are expensive to fix and not obvious on a short test drive.
Prices for good examples are starting to rise, so a well-documented car is worth paying more for.
Is the E63 6 Series a good buy?
A well-maintained E63 6 Series is a stylish and comfortable grand tourer at a reasonable price. The 630i and 635d offer the best balance of performance and running costs, while the 650i suits enthusiasts who love V8 sound.
Buy carefully, keep up with maintenance and enjoy one of the most distinctive BMWs of its era.
BMW E63 6 Series key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | 2003 to 2010 |
| Body | E63 coupé and E64 convertible |
| Platform | Based on the E60 5 Series |
| Petrol | 630i, 645Ci, 650i |
| Diesel | 635d |
| Gearboxes | Manual, automatic and SMG in some versions |
| Key checks | V8 oil leaks, cooling system, roof, electronics |
Frequently asked questions
Is the E63 6 Series reliable?
The 630i and 635d are generally more dependable than the V8 models, but all need careful maintenance.
What is the difference between the E63 and E64?
The E63 is the coupé and the E64 is the convertible.
Which E63 6 Series engine is best?
The 630i and 635d offer the best balance, while the 650i offers the most performance outside the M6.
Is the E63 6 Series a classic?
Many enthusiasts now see it as a modern classic, and prices for good examples are rising.
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