Under the Hood

The 640i is powered by a 315-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. Its peak torque rating is 332 pounds-feet. BMW cites a zero to 60 mph time of 5.5 seconds for both the coupe and convertible. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission includes steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles.

Other standard features include computer-controlled adaptive shock absorbers and Driving Dynamics Control, which allows the driver to adjust the ride quality, accelerator response, power-steering assist level and automatic transmission behavior.

Optional mechanical upgrades include active stabilizer bars and active steering, the latter of which adds rear-wheel steering to the earlier generation's variable-ratio front steering system.

    See also:

    Sport program and manual mode M/S
    Activating the sport program Push the selector lever to the left out of transmission position D. DS is displayed in the instrument cluster. This position is recommended for a performance- ori ...

    Fuel gauge
    The vehicle inclination may cause the display to vary. Notes on refueling, refer to page 234. ...

    Tachometer
    Always avoid engine speeds in the red warning field. In this range, the fuel supply is interrupted to protect the engine. ...