Owner reviews for the BMW 645
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Overall rating 4/5If you’re searching for a classic grand tourer offering a blend of power, poise and luxury, the BMW 645 fits the bill.
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4/5The BMW 645 is made for cruising, with enough pace and punch to eat up the miles before it. The 645, in both coupe and convertible forms, was part of the E63/E64 6 Series launched in 2003, and was produced between 2004 and 2005. It brought back BMW’s heritage of big, swift touring cars, placing comfort and driver enjoyment at its core. Key highlights for the 645 are its 4.4-litre V8 engine, engaging rear-wheel drive balance and a cabin filled with clever tech for its time. Compared to rivals like the Jaguar XK or Mercedes CL, the BMW leads with direct handling and a slightly sharper drive, though it’s less forgiving in rear-seat space. Today, the 645 appeals for its mix of reliability, performance and genuine presence on the road.
The BMW 645 offers a suite of standard safety features for its era, such as traction control, multiple airbags and ISOFIX child seat mounts. It also comes with enhanced stopping aids, including brake drying in wet conditions, brake pretensioning and brake fade compensation, which monitors rising brake temperatures and automatically increases pressure when required.
A single engine choice powers the 645: a muscular 4.4-litre V8 petrol unit, producing around 333bhp. It's the same one found in the era-specific 7 Series, though with a less restrictive exhaust for a throatier sound. Both the coupe and convertible share this engine.
Expect dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, an early iDrive infotainment system with navigation, and cruise control as standard. Higher trims and options could add features like heated seats and upgraded audio. The iDrive system, while advanced for its time, can feel dated compared to current tech.
Fuel economy on the 645 is about average for its engine and weight, with real-world mixed-use figures of 17-33mpg. It’s a powerful V8 grand tourer, so do expect relatively high fuel and running costs compared to smaller or more modern engines.
Inspect the electrics thoroughly – including roof mechanisms on convertibles – and make sure service history is complete. Watch for signs of oil leaks and wear to the interior leather trims. For total reassurance, consider The AA Vehicle Inspection service for added peace of mind.
With proper maintenance, the BMW 645 can be a reliable companion. The V8 engine is robust if serviced regularly, but the complexity of its electronics and servicing needs means costs can stack up. Prioritise low-mileage, well-documented examples for stress-free ownership.