The E31 8-series was a car of firsts for BMW, with significant investment (reputedly in excess of $1bn) delivering a remarkable 0.29 drag coefficient, their first production V12, the first use of the multi-link rear axle and the first of their range to feature an electronic drive-by-wire throttle.
Following its initial launch at the Frankfurt Motorshow in 1989, by the following summer BMW had sold out the entire production run of 12,000-units through to 1993 - just as well given that a global recession ensued shortly thereafter.
This lovely low mileage example has seen little use in recent years, and is in fine condition. With a generous history file and a beautiful V12 to enjoy, it’s ready to be enjoyed.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Currently owned by a collector of German classics and therefore lightly used in recent years.
Originally ordered in silver metallic by its first owner with a list price of £70k+, BMW Almondsbury could only source a calypso red example and had the car professionally repainted in silver prior to delivery (Sep-92), hence both the V5C & service book record the original colour as silver, with the only visible signs of its original colour are found in the engine bay and boot under the carpet
Supplied by BMW Almondsbury both to its first keeper of 3yrs, a local company director, and to its subsequent long term keeper of 23yrs
BMW Approved used car paperwork remains on file
Ownership then passed to a family member from whom our collector purchased the car in 2020.
Full leather-bound book pack including handbook, service book, radio instructions etc together with the original sales brochure
V5 and current MOT certificate present and correct
Private plate included in the sale
Substantial history file
THE INTERIOR
Well-presented cabin with nappa parchment leather in lovely condition and no discernible signs of wear
Nicely optioned with cruise control, electric steering column, seats, sunroof and rear blind
Everything in good working order including the air conditioning
Radio & instruments fully functional
No pixel loss on the displays
A multi information display unit on the dash monitors amongst other items: service intervals, fuel consumption, average speed, outside temperature etc
Full toolkit present in the boot
Spare alloy wheel in great condition
A nice touch is the original rechargeable BMW hand lamp still residing in its charging port within the glovebox
THE EXTERIOR
Having reportedly been garaged most of its life, the paintwork still presents in superb condition
No visible signs of corrosion
The occasional stone chip here and there, commensurate with the mileage
Underneath presents in similar condition with light surface corrosion to the suspension
Alloy wheels are in great condition
Goodyear tyres fitted all round
Pop-up lights operate as they should and are a real touch of 1990's nostalgia alongside the wonderful lines of pillar-less elegance when the side windows are lowered
THE MECHANICS
5litre V12 sounds majestic
Smooth gear change and acceleration to match
Sport mode and manual gear selection enliven performance from the auto box at the flick of a switch
Part service history: a mix of BMW main dealer and independent specialists with invoices on file for further servicing in recent years including new tyres, batteries, pads & fluids
Current MOT runs through to June 2023
THE SUMMARY
Low mileage, good condition 850s are in short supply these days. We’re sure that this prime example will be snapped up.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
