2009 BMW 650i convertible review, test drive

Part of the reason for the discreet manner in which the Bimmer achieves its astonishing pace is the ability of this chassis to mask speed like few others can. Near-perfect weight distribution, incredible grip and well contained roll and pitch combine to give impeccable road manners. The steering is direct, accurate and bristling with feel, the brakes are perfectly weighted, and you just find yourself going harder and harder naturally.

There is a layer of underlying stiffness and some thump and a bit of kick over sharp-edged holes, but our roads are otherwise dealt with pretty well. You are comfortable in the cabin for the most part and ride quality is actually quite good. Like with most convertibles, there is a fair amount of scuttle shake and you can feel tremors through the body every time you hit a bad patch.

The key to enjoying this car is to drive considerably less than a 100 percent. The casual manner in which it lunges from corner to corner, the effortless way it cruises, and its unflappable poise makes the 6-series feel like it’s never going to break into a sweat. The impeccable handling is also helped by the fact that this suspension hasn’t been raised to deal with Indian roads. The downside is a car with its belly closer to the ground and that means you need to be especially careful over big speedbreakers, of which there is no serious shortage.