The 8 Series, whose development in early summer 1984 under the code E31 starts, is technically so gifted as F1 world champion Michael Schumacher. It is the first car in the world with so-called multiplex technology, an early form of digital data transmission. Anyone who values sporty driving can order the coupe built in Dingolfing with a six-speed manual transmission a novelty in mass-produced automobiles back then. A four-speed automatic is an alternative to choice, without extra charge is due. But that's not all. The integral rear axle with five spatially arranged handlebars makes the 1.8-tonner as nimble as an attacker when dribbling. And the "Automatic Stability + Traction Control ASC + T" (in the switch versions series, in automatic 8-series available as an extra) already points towards ESP. Integral seats à la R 129, where the belt mechanism is attached to the seat, 1989 are the latest craze. The extra charge "Automatic Umluft-Control" (AUC) for the automatic climate control leaves people amazed, the extra available electric steering column adjustment as well.
For some, his body was a bit overweight 20 years ago, but in times of Porsche Panamera & Co, the coupe with its 16-inch tires looks like a well-trained striker in the dressing room of sumo wrestlers. On duty, the frameless side windows slide a few centimeters down the door handle while pulling to catch them in their upper anchorage after closing with a rich "clack". So they are optimal later, wind noise does not annoy even at high speeds. Anyone who is accustomed to new cars with their wild silver-colored plastic applications in the interior, the 8-seater interior will be as sparse as a team room of the Association League - despite good workmanship and ergonomics. After turning the ignition key, only a soft start-up whirring is heard, while the fuel pump supplies the fuel injection system with fuel. But when the mixture explodes in the twelve cylinders, a background noise sets in which gives rise to goose bumps like goal celebrations in the football stadium.
At the IAA in September 1989 BMW presents the 850i (E31). Its centerpiece is the five-liter V12 taken from the 7 Series (E32). In the fall of 1992, the 850 CSi with 5576 cc and 380 hp appears. It is only available with six-speed manual transmission. With its standard mitlenkenden rear axle and its limited slip differential, he is more sports cars than Gran Turismo. In the same year, the 850i in 850 Ci renamed, for experimental purposes, BMW builds a 830i-mini series (V8, 2997 cc, 218 hp). The 840 Ci comes in the summer of 1993 (V8, 3982 cc, 286 hp) and remains until the beginning of 1996 in the program. The 840 Ci with 4398 cc follows in early 1995 and remains on sale until 1999. In the fall of 1994, the displacement of the 850 Ci to 5379 cc, the performance climbs to 326 hp. As of 1997, only the models 840 Ci and 850 Ci are in the program. In the middle of 1999 the production expires after 30,603 built aft.
Biggest plus of the 8: He is a luxury classic, which is still relatively cheap to get. The technology is solid, rust on supporting parts only in rare cases an issue - evidence of the high manufacturing quality of the then most expensive BMW. Remains the fear opponent Electronics: Amazingly many high-tech components are still available - but expensive. However, there are several experts in the E31 club who specialize in the repair of individual electronic components at lower prices. Anyone seriously considering a '8' should check all buttons and switches for their function before purchasing. Beyond 150,000 kilometers is usually a revision of the complex chassis on, here demands the heavy weight of the coupe its toll. One of the advantages of the large-scale coupé is the good accessibility of most of the technology components - fortunately, the developers have fortunately been committed to sustainability. As far as the quality of the rust protection and the electronic components are concerned, early copies (about 1989 to 1993) belong to the quite recommendable 8s.
The demand is still relaxed. Who buys directly from BMW should be prepared for juicy prices 8er drive was and is not a cheap pleasure. An online spare parts catalog is available on the homepage of the E31 Club.
Who wants to cherish his 8 and maintain and drive only in fine weather, should treat himself to a twelve-cylinder. The cheapest is the 850i. If the 8 Series is also used in everyday life, the 840 Ci is the perfect choice. It costs less maintenance, not least because of its lower fuel consumption. The extremely rare Alpina versions are just one case for financially carefree collectors.