The dash layout of the coupe and convertible differ slightly from the theme adopted by its 5 and 7-Series brethren, and I much
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| The dash layout of the coupe and convertible differ slightly from the theme adopted by BMW's 5 and 7-Series brethren. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
prefer it. The primary gauges in the 645 are set together in a large pod facing the driver. HVAC controls reside mid-point in the dash, beneath the iDrive screen and central air vents. The dual-zone climate control system is simple to operate, which is a refreshing juxtapose to the gimmicky and bewildering iDrive technology. Now I don't particularly like a huge cluster of buttons, switches and dials to control the many sophisticated functions of a modern, technology laden automobile, however, I abhor multi-function devices even more, and there is no greater multi-function device than BMW's iDrive. And that's all I have to say on the matter. But regarding cupholders, there aren't enough. Only two in a four-seat car? Nevertheless, a beautifully sculpted metal holder snaps into place on the center console and a second one is located under the rear portion of the center-console armrest, only accessible when the armrest cover is open at a 90-degree angle. How unfortunate that one of the world's great touring cars can only keep two occupants properly caffeinated.
When it's sitting still, the 645Ci is a work of art to admire. When it's being driven, it is a machine to become one with. I know that sounds a little too Zen-like for an automobile, but describing the bond that develops between the 645Ci and its driver when its roof is down and the sun is shining is difficult to put
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| BMW's 32-valve DOHC V8 powerhouse produces 325 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 330 pounds-feet of torque at only 3,600 rpm. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
into words. The 645Ci's exhaust note is intoxicating, but discreet. Those with a mechanical ear will undoubtedly detect the burble of a high performance V8. Displacing 4.4-liters (268 cu-in), BMW's 32-valve DOHC powerhouse features the brand's exclusive Valvetronic technology, which maximizes the engine's output throughout the rev band by constantly adjusting the timing of the intake valves. The end result is 325 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 330 pounds-feet of torque at only 3,600 rpm. And given the cabriolet's less-than-svelte curb weight with the 6-speed manual gearbox of 1,895 kg (4,178 lbs), a healthy dose of power is needed to propel it with any degree of authority. BMW claims the 645Ci has just that, and resultantly is capable of a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) run in just 6.3 seconds, which is sufficient to devour freeway onramps in a few short blinks of the eye.
