BMW M6

The BMW M6 is a ludicrously fast coupe GT that can embarrass the odd supercar. Also comes in a way-too-flash drop-top version best left for Miami.

• Comfort

  Adjustable suspension makes light work of the bigger bumps - just stick it in ‘comfort' and go - but the M6 is a bit hard for most people. Other than that it's just like any other 6-Series, so comfy and big enough in the front seats. Be aware that the seven-speed sequential manual's ‘auto' mode is pretty snatchy.

  

• Performance

  Unless you've got something Italian and with a six-digit price tag, be wary of the M6; it uses the M5's V10. That means 373kW, a limited 250km/h and 0-100km/h in just 4.8 seconds. And this is a big car at 1650kg. The figures are pretty similar for the drop-top, although it's a smidge heavier.

  

• Cool

  The convertible, as we've said, looks great in Miami, less so in Mablethorpe. The coupe is cool for no other reason than that the engine and drivetrain are epic.

  

• Quality

  The 6-Series is hewn from one solid piece. Well, OK, not really, but lumps of granite will fall apart quicker.

  

• Handling

  The M6 is hard and flat in any situation, making the kind of scything turns you need from a big rear-wheel drive GT. It can generate huge amounts of lateral grip,but when it lets go and you've got the traction off, you'll dent more than just your ego.

  

• Practicality

  For a GT car the Six is fine for practicality. There's a 450-litre boot that loses 150 litres if you get the roofless one. But there's no ‘Touring' option.

  

• Running costs

  Cheap insurance, low fuel consumption -a Volkswagen Polo it ain't. Add to that a near $292,555 price tag and you have a very expensive toy, that manages to be $50K MORE than an M5.