The new BMW 630i Coupé and Convertible - Powered by the world's lightest six-cylinder engine

BMW Great Britain has announced the introduction of the new 630i with the
world's lightest six-cylinder engine under the bonnet. Powered by an all-new
3.0-litre straight-six engine featuring VALVETRONIC technology and made from
magnesium and aluminium composite, the 630i goes on sale in September 2004.

Available in both Coupé and Convertible guises from launch, the 630i develops
258bhp at 6,600rpm, increased by 12 per cent compared to the current 3.0-litre
petrol unit. Maximum torque is 300Nm and this is available from just 2,500rpm
up to 4,000rpm with the redline starting at a heady 7,000rpm.

On the road this power translates into a zero to 62mph time of 6.5 seconds (6.7
seconds for an automatic) in the Coupé and 6.9 seconds (7.2 seconds) in the
Convertible. Top speed on all versions is limited to 155mph. Even with this
performance, the 630i posts frugal consumption figures of 31.4mpg (29.7mpg) for
the Coupé and 29.4mpg (28.5mpg) for the Convertible. This represents a 12 per
cent increase in BMW 3.0-litre petrol engine efficiency.

The EU4 compliant 3.0-litre engine, which features the world's first electric
water pump to keep the block cool for increased efficiency, will appear in
future BMW models however details regarding this will be released at a later
date.

Full specification details are yet to be finalised, but customers will be able
to specify their 630i with either six-speed manual, automatic or BMW's
Sequential Manual Gearbox and the car will sit on 17-inch light alloy wheels
fitted with 245/50 R17 tyres. Thanks to the lightweight materials it shares
with its cousin and the lightest six-cylinder engine in the world, the 630i
tips the scales up to 130kgs less than a 645Ci.

The BMW 630i will also feature Dynamic Stability Control + Dynamic Traction
Control, Dynamic Brake Control and ABS as standard among a host of other safety
features. Meanwhile, the list of optional equipment will include innovative
Active Steering and Dynamic Drive for a more bespoke driving experience.

Visually little distinguishes the 630i from the 645Ci. However, badging aside,
the 630i's chrome-plated exhaust pipes are round rather than oval, while the
radiator grille slats have been de-chromed. Inside and a full leather interior
cossets the driver and passengers.

Prices for the 630i Coupé and Convertible will be announced at a later date.

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