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View Poll Results: What would you get if you were buying a car again?
2015 Mercedes E400/E550 coupe 4 11.11%
2012/13 640i 8 22.22%
2012/13 650i 24 66.67%
Voters: 36. You may not vote on this poll

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      06-25-2017, 01:48 PM   #1
Intotheblue
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Considering a 6 coupe

Hey all, sorry for those that may be tired of these sorts of threads. I'm currently in a 2009 328i coupe and love it, but it's time to move on. I'm currently considering 2 cars, a CPO 2012-13 range 640/50i coupe, or a CPO 2015 Mercedes E400/E550 coupe.

Have any of you guys test driven both in your hunt for a car before deciding on the 6 series?

I really want my next car to have radar cruise control, which seems slightly more prevalent on the Benz's in my price range, have yet to find a used 6 series with it yet. Only 1 of the 5 650i's I looked at has lane assist, do any of you feel it's worth the few extra grand it would cost to get a car with it?

Any recommendations on 640i vs 650i? My 328i with an ECU tone and exhaust is very enjoyable to drive speed-wise, so I know I'd be fine with a 640i and some mods, I'm more concerned about reliability. I've read that the 650i is quite reliable except for the need to top off oil a lot.

I test drove a 435i last month and I didn't like the steering compared to my E92 due to the steer-by-wire, and I know the 6 series uses the same thing. My current train of thought is that if I'm getting that really smooth driving feeling, I might as well go full luxury with an E400/E550, with more easy to find tech upgrades to boot (for about $5k more than the cheapest bare bones 650i I've found).

Finally, for the 2013/14 6 series, I feel like it's the only car where the stock bumpers look better than the M-Sport, anyone else agree? Would I be missing suspension parts if I don't get an M-Sport?

Thank everyone, look forward to possibly joining the club.
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      06-25-2017, 03:30 PM   #2
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I would at least get a 2014. I think that's when the updated M steering wheel and NBT became available. Probably worth to pay a few grand more for those options...

Definitely don't agree on the stock bumpers looking better than M-Sport (regardless of the year), but that's a matter of opinion.
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      06-26-2017, 05:36 AM   #3
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My thinking is that I'm either going to splurge and get a fully loaded 2015 E400/550, or go the opposite and find the cheapest CPO 6 series that I can. I did notice the NAV upgrade on the 2014's, but coming from a 2009 iDrive, any upgrade from that will still be new to me.

I'm torn on the M-bumpers, there are 2 white 6 series in my parking garage I looked at today. From the front I hated it, but like it from corner angles. On a black 6 series, the stock bumper gives it an Aston Martin kinda vibe.
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      06-26-2017, 09:05 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Intotheblue View Post
I'm torn on the M-bumpers, there are 2 white 6 series in my parking garage I looked at today. From the front I hated it, but like it from corner angles. On a black 6 series, the stock bumper gives it an Aston Martin kinda vibe.
My 2014 650i with standard bumpers:
Attached Images
  

Last edited by 650i2014; 06-26-2017 at 04:51 PM..
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      06-26-2017, 01:25 PM   #5
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2014 or later 650 would be my suggestion... n63tu went into service for 2013 models, haven't heard of any 2014s having drivetrain issues. 2014s produced after a certain date have the digital instrument cluster as well as updated steering wheel for m sports. The executive package and msport package put together can give you a leather dashboard and upper door leather with heads up display... makes the interior one of best I've ever been in...
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      06-26-2017, 02:43 PM   #6
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In not a fan of the N63(TU) so I went for the 640i, which IMHO is a peach of an engine, and responds well to mods to boot if you're interested in that. I also prefer the look of the non M Sport, but I do miss the thicker steering wheel. There are no differences in the suspension as far as I know.

I don't know how you can compare the 6 series to the E coupe - the 6 is a true luxury coupe where the E class coupe is in fact a C class in drag - I drove one and it was just a budget experience in comparison to the 6.
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      06-29-2017, 12:09 AM   #7
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Here's a good comparison of the performance of the two cars:

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      07-01-2017, 04:39 PM   #8
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Thanks for the recommendations everyone. A used/certified 2014 is within my price range. I've noticed the change to the instrument cluster in those and obviously prefer it. I'm still undecided on the engine, but since my commute to work is only 8 miles each way I'm not too concerned with gas mileage. I'm also thinking xDrive would be nice on a car this big, but open to hear opinions.

As far as an E550 is concerned, it's been my dream car for a while but 2014s are basically the exact same price as a 6 series, yet don't look as expensive (no surprise there).

Since a 6 is like 15 inches longer than my 328i coupe, I really want the Parking Assist. Is there a specific code to look for in a VIN decode? It's such a cheap option I would have expected it to be on all the cars I've looked at online, but none of them specifically say Parking Assist. Is surround view indicative of the option or is that also included in Driver Assist Plus? (which is also a must have for me).

Finally, as it pertains to the stereo, for 2014's the options seem to be the HiFi system or B&O. Is the base HiFi the same as the Harman Kardon system? Or was the base system upgraded to HK in more recent years?

Last edited by Intotheblue; 07-01-2017 at 05:07 PM..
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      07-01-2017, 04:49 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 650i2014 View Post
My 2014 650i with standard bumpers:
Love the pics. I'm leaning towards white myself, as blue seems harder to find. I'm going to base my purchase on price (preferably certified) and options and not necessarily the body style as the M-Sport seems more readily available. I guess since the air scoops are so much smaller on the 6 compared to other BMWs I'm not in love with them, your car just looks sleek with the regular bumpers.
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      07-02-2017, 10:30 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Intotheblue View Post
Love the pics. I'm leaning towards white myself, as blue seems harder to find. I'm going to base my purchase on price (preferably certified) and options and not necessarily the body style as the M-Sport seems more readily available. I guess since the air scoops are so much smaller on the 6 compared to other BMWs I'm not in love with them, your car just looks sleek with the regular bumpers.
The M-sport adds quite a few more features than the non-M-sport off the bat, if you're looking at 2014 and above. It'll be hard to find a non-M-sport that has more features than an M-sport. I doubt anyone would order a non-M sport and spend another $9K in options when they can have the same options + M-Sport for $5300.

http://blog.caranddriver.com/dial-m-...arts-at-80625/

I am surprised that in your area M-sport is readily available. I actually had mine shipped from California as I couldn't find any M-sports with the color combo I wanted. They were usually 2013 or older and without the 6WB, NBT and LED headlights, which all were a must in my opinion. It just gives the car a lot more presence.

As far as the stereos, I believe there were three options:

1. Base
2. Premium (Harman Kardon)
3. Bang & Olufsen
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      07-02-2017, 10:35 PM   #11
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I just realized that you're looking at 12/13. For those years the M-sport doesn't actually add any significant features that you would care for like the 2014 does.
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      07-03-2017, 12:55 AM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AmooManiak View Post
I just realized that you're looking at 12/13. For those years the M-sport doesn't actually add any significant features that you would care for like the 2014 does.
I didn't update the poll, but at this point I think I will go for a 2014, mainly because of the dynamic digital instrument cluster.

I'm still about 6 months away from a purchase I think, so obviously impossible to determine what cars will be available then, but I'm finding it near impossible to locate ones with active cruise control.

Must-haves include ACC and LED headlights (possibly xDrive). Preferably Alpine White, certified, with an upgraded stereo. I have yet to see a single RWD 6 with Parking Assist in my search, which makes the decision to get xDrive (and mechanical steering) that much easier.
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      07-03-2017, 05:18 AM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BDO View Post
...I don't know how you can compare the 6 series to the E coupe - the 6 is a true luxury coupe where the E class coupe is in fact a C class in drag - I drove one and it was just a budget experience in comparison to the 6.
Totally agree, the 6 is a far superior car in all respects.
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      07-03-2017, 05:29 AM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Intotheblue View Post
...Must-haves include ACC and LED headlights...
If by ACC you mean Driving Assistant Plus (radar controlled distance keeping plus auto stop and go), then I couldn't recommend it highly enough. Along with Adaptive Drive they're my most used options. As to the LEDs they're great on unlit country roads and do all sorts of fancy stuff but not good on wet motorways. I prefer the bi-xenons I had on my previous 640i - regarless of any actual figures, I think they're brighter and have a longer throw.
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      07-03-2017, 12:13 PM   #15
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AmooManiak View Post
The M-sport adds quite a few more features than the non-M-sport off the bat, if you're looking at 2014 and above. It'll be hard to find a non-M-sport that has more features than an M-sport.
Depends on the configuration I guess; mine is non-M-Sport and it's fully loaded with all possible options; including full Adaptive LED, digital cluster, ACC, park Assist, etc. But you are right, they're more common for M-sport packages.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Intotheblue View Post
... I really want the Parking Assist. Is there a specific code to look for in a VIN decode?
The feature code is 5DP from the list of options; not sure if you can extract such detail from the VIN though:
5DP - PARK ASSISTANT
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      07-03-2017, 05:09 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Jon D View Post
If by ACC you mean Driving Assistant Plus (radar controlled distance keeping plus auto stop and go), then I couldn't recommend it highly enough. Along with Adaptive Drive they're my most used options. As to the LEDs they're great on unlit country roads and do all sorts of fancy stuff but not good on wet motorways. I prefer the bi-xenons I had on my previous 640i - regarless of any actual figures, I think they're brighter and have a longer throw.
On the 2014 models, it seems like ACC has to be configured on top of Driving Assistant Plus (I could be wrong, it seems like it was merged into one option for 2016 or so). I looked up VIN decodes for like 50 cars and many had code 5AS but only 1 had 5AT (ACC).

Absolutely none had 5DP (I know it's not available on xDrive, which I think I will go with).

At the moment, the 2 advantages the E550 has over the 6 is the B-pillarless design for that open feel, and short bursts of semiautonomous Steering Assist. Is there an equivalent on a 2014 F13? But besides that, the F13 being like $30k more expensive brand new does indicate the quality, but I get to take advantage of that depreciation.
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      08-14-2017, 11:07 PM   #17
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Hey guys, just an update. So currently I've narrowed my car search down to the 650i xDrive and a Jag F-Type V6. To me, the Jag is one of the best looking cars ever made, but I think the 6 series is not too far behind.

I just test drove my first 650i xDrive today in Carbon Black. The extra space and luxury over the F-Type is appreciated, although the interior of the F-Type is nice as well. Even compared to an F-Type V6 S with 380 HP, the 650i destroys it. Very minimal throttle lag in comparison, and almost scary fast (.5 second faster 0-60).

Also, I'm not sure if the exhaust of the 650i I drove today was stock or had an M5/6 exhaust installed or something, but it was a lot louder than the coveted F-Type exhaust. Maybe it had something to do with exhaust sounds being played over the speakers. Anyways, I love it and it put a smile on my face in a way the Jag couldn't.

The one I drove was a great price, but lacking Adaptive Cruise Control or an upgraded stereo. I'm not sure if ACC is a deal breaker, but I'd really like to have it. Also, Carbon Black is only my 3rd favorite color over white and Sapphire Black.

Anyone have any opinions on the F-Type? Would any of you own one instead of your 6? I really want to get into a new [used] car now, but waiting on a white 6-series with ACC and perhaps more factory warranty might be the best. But that Jag...if I were to get a 2016 it would have a factory warranty and free scheduled maintenance until 2021 which is a great incentive in itself.
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      08-15-2017, 04:41 PM   #18
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Love the look of the f-Type as well but have not driven it. If you going for looks and people staring go for it. if your going for world class low key style, comfort and performance that get a 650. I have a 2012 650 xdrive couple with B&O, M package, and Dinan stage 2 tune and love it, stupid fast.

No issues so far w/2012 but I do miss the driver assist so hold out for one with that. Mine is black, looks blue in some light, with white interior and its a pleasure to just get into for my short commute, feels rich.

No regrets although I did finally see a brand new 6M grand sport at the stop light the other day and was dripping with envy, the stance was unbelievable, usually I see some new 4M's and the 6M was just at another level completely, its was sweet! Should be for the price though.
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      08-16-2017, 02:55 PM   #19
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OP is there a year by year change list for the 6 series? I am in the same boat as you.
Secondly, where are you going to decode the vin?
I too am coming from a 3 series (335i to be exact)

And like you must have adaptive cruise control. I have it on my Kia K900 and love it.
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      08-16-2017, 03:10 PM   #20
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Quote:
Originally Posted by J. Dub View Post
OP is there a year by year change list for the 6 series? I am in the same boat as you.
Secondly, where are you going to decode the vin?
I too am coming from a 3 series (335i to be exact)

And like you must have adaptive cruise control. I have it on my Kia K900 and love it.
https://www.bmwvin.com/
http://bimmer.work/

I use those sites. I'm not sure of a comprehensive year by year list. 2013 is when they upped the horsepower to 445. 2014 is when they added the fully digital instrument cluster (some early build 2014's may still have the old analog gauges though). I don't think there would be much of a difference between the 2014-2016 with the exception of time left on the factory warranty (and price obviously). If you go with an xDrive you'll get hydraulic assisted steering versus electric which will give you the most similar handling to what you're used to in the 335i.

You'll find that the adaptive cruise control, listed as ACC Stop & Go, is extremely hard to find, and would show up as a separate option in a Vin decode from the Driver Assistant or Driver Assistant Plus. Also by looking at pictures of the steering wheel, on the left side, the bottom row of buttons, ACC will have 2 buttons. There will only be 1 button on the bottom left (of the left side of the steering wheel) if it doesn't have ACC.

Edit: Oh, there was a facelift for late-year 2015. There's very little difference in the M-sport model except the grill slats, and possibly the shape of the headlights. The front bumpers on the non-M-sport do look quite different.

Last edited by Intotheblue; 08-16-2017 at 03:16 PM..
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      08-16-2017, 05:01 PM   #21
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If you really want to figure out all the options you need to check each vin and compare the options against the ordering guide. google my20xx 6 series and it will pop up. http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=674004
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      08-16-2017, 05:32 PM   #22
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Intotheblue View Post
https://www.bmwvin.com/
http://bimmer.work/

I use those sites. I'm not sure of a comprehensive year by year list. 2013 is when they upped the horsepower to 445. 2014 is when they added the fully digital instrument cluster (some early build 2014's may still have the old analog gauges though). I don't think there would be much of a difference between the 2014-2016 with the exception of time left on the factory warranty (and price obviously). If you go with an xDrive you'll get hydraulic assisted steering versus electric which will give you the most similar handling to what you're used to in the 335i.

You'll find that the adaptive cruise control, listed as ACC Stop & Go, is extremely hard to find, and would show up as a separate option in a Vin decode from the Driver Assistant or Driver Assistant Plus. Also by looking at pictures of the steering wheel, on the left side, the bottom row of buttons, ACC will have 2 buttons. There will only be 1 button on the bottom left (of the left side of the steering wheel) if it doesn't have ACC.

Edit: Oh, there was a facelift for late-year 2015. There's very little difference in the M-sport model except the grill slats, and possibly the shape of the headlights. The front bumpers on the non-M-sport do look quite different.
Quote:
Originally Posted by murph914 View Post
If you really want to figure out all the options you need to check each vin and compare the options against the ordering guide. google my20xx 6 series and it will pop up. http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=674004
Thank you both.

Odd, I cannot even find adaptive cruise nor ACC anywhere on the 2014 ordering info pdf. See link http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/att...7&d=1369340684
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