2006 BMW 650i Road Test

(Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com)

Acceleration is fantastic, but it's accomplished in a tranquility and calmness that is disconcerting. The 650i never seems to run out of breath. And all this is accompanied by the deep roar of the V8 that quickly becomes addictive.

The handling is impressive. For a 1,730 kg (3,814 lb) car, it has the manoeuvrability of a car that's much svelter. The magnificent optional 19-inch wheels absorb road imperfections with composure. To sum things up, the car can blast like a rocket or ride like a cloud. BMW created a car that combines the best of both worlds.

(Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com)

The icing on the cake is a beautiful body. The 650i is so stunning that I could look at it for hours at a time. I could walk around it and admire all its curves, details and lines without getting bored. What a beauty! The 19-inch wheels are worth the extra dollars.

The BMW 650i has a base price of $101,500, and this test car is equipped with the Executive Package ($6,400), which includes the Active Steering, sport seats, an upgraded sound system with 6-CD changer, and the aforementioned alloy wheels. It also has the automatic gearbox, a no-charge option. Total: $107,900.

Of course, that's a lot of money, but you only live once. The 650i is a car for those who love to drive, and those who can afford it will not be disappointed. I've got to go, I have to run to the convenience store and buy a few Lotto 6/49 tickets.

(Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com)

What I like:
Beautiful
Combination of performance and
 smoothness
Superb engine

What I don't like:
iDrive system, as always
Tight rear seat space
I can't afford one