Focus ST to E63 6 Series

[Waynester]

Hi, I'm looking at purchasing a 6 series BMW as my next car. I currently have a Ford Focus ST225, but I'm after something a little more comfy and refined, and specifically automatic.
I had an E39 523 previously and really would like another BMW. I was initially looking at an E60 5 series but the 6 is really growing on me...including the controversial rear end.

Fuel economy isn't a big problem as I only average around 10/12k a year, and I'm used to the ST which returns on average 28-30mpg.

So what to look out for, any fundamental problems to be aware of? What's the consensus on preferred model? I wouldnt mind the 635 diesel over a petrol, would it be the better choice?

Budget including the sale/px of my '57 plate FSH, 41,000 mile ST-2 is around £10-12k. Is that enough to consider the facelift model, or is that not such an issue?

Apologies for all the questions.

[Waynester]

philmots said:

If fuel isn't much of an issue then the V8 650i should be the car of choice.

It's a lovely engine, can't think of any reason why you'd want the 635d over one unless mpg is a concern.

Thanks. I would prefer the V8, I just didn't want to dismiss the 635D if it was better in some way..

Any major problems with the 645/650 V8 models?

I hadn't considered the 6 series previously, but the coupe is really growing on me!

[Waynester]

*Al* said:

I've know quite a few 645s with engine oil leaks, very common. Can't comment on the 650 engine though.

Thanks for the advice so far, it sounds like the 650 is the one to go for. I assumed the 645 & 650 were the same engine, just different capacities?

Are there any other specific issues to be aware of when looking at these cars? I'm hoping to look at a few this week.
Is the facelift model worth the extra money?

[Waynester]

philmots said:

The 645 and 650 are both N62's, but the 4.8 is the N62B48TU (TU meaning technical update) which had various changes and different parts to address the weak areas of the 4.4.

This is pretty interesting....

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/attachment.php?at...

Useful info, thanks for that.

This looks nice, do you think it's priced about right? It's at the top end of my budget. There's certainly plenty cheaper out there, but I'm looking to avoid buying a money pit as far as possible!!


http://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/b...