So Boss!Although this title would normally best be suited for a car like the Ford Mustang, the BMW 645Ci still deserves it even though the Mustang is a quicker car. Starting back in the mid-70s, BMW began what was to be a very successful line of GT coupes.
With models ranging from the 628i and 630i to the 635CSi and the awesome E24 M6, the last of the first 6-series were delivered in 1989. At the 2003 Frankfurt Auto show, the World was introduced to the all-new 6-series coupe. A short while later, the convertible version was launched. This car is proving to be every bit as good and desirable as the original although with a modern twist to allow it to stand out more.
With $99,000 in hand, a basic 645Ci can be yours. With all options, over $110,000 will be necessary to have the keys handed over. Our tester had the Executive Package (Sport seats, 19" wheels, etc) for a total of $105,400.
StylingChris Bangle is a name that just about everyone in the automotive world
is familiar with. He is responsible for the design (or lack thereof) of the modern BMWs. As controversial as the 7-series was when it appeared as a 2003, the 6-series borrows many of its styling elements, namely the rear-end. Also we can identify other cues from recent BMWs; I am refereeing to the front-end of the Z4. The result is a large, dashing, look-at-me GT coupe that leaves no one indifferent. A first glance towards the car tells the bystander that this is a fast car and that it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing. The second glance finds itself absorbing a long low hood, wide rear haunches and sex appeal. Something I fell upon by accident is the line that ties the back glass to the rear bumper when the trunk lid is open. With a little imagination, I could clearly see the shape of the backside of a Porsche 911... maybe it is just the heat.
In this price range, people expect perfection and BMW delivers. The body panels are aligned with laser guided precision and the paint application is stunning. This ideology carries into the cockpit of the car. The leather that covers the straight-jacket-like front sport seats is rich and supple. The plastics and alloys used are fit for royalty. All of this comes together through excellent craftsmanship. The rear twin-bucket type bench is quite limited and is best suited for children that are being taken to Dairy Queen.
All controls, including the HVAC knobs, the shifter and the steering wheel audio and cruise buttons are a prime example of spot-on ergonomics and ease-of-use. On the other hand, I-Drive is now also another expression synonymous with BMW and aggravation. Although today's I-Drive is far more user-friendly than the original, it remains a source of irritation for those that need to use it especially for audio adjustments.
The only hiccup I could find with the interior accoutrements of this car was the center armrest: it is too high and my elbow bumps into it every time I shift. I had to lift the lid cover so that my elbow could slide back uninterrupted.
