Highlights
- Excellent example of BMW's high-octane super-coupe
- Accompanied by an impressive paperwork file
- Recently underwent an exhaust overhaul
- Recently featured in Eastenders! Click here to see clip
The Appeal
This was the first generation of BMW's 8-Series, and it really gave the impression of meaning business. Big and brash, with characteristic pop-up headlights and that iconic split grille shrunk about as small as it could get, this wasn't your standard Beamer or your standard Grand Tourer. Packed with an enormous V12 engine, the only thing against the 850i was the economy.
Indeed, at $90,000 when new, it was always going to struggle, and BMW were so stung by the fact that they abandoned the 8-Series for nearly thirty years. In retrospect, that's a crying shame - this is a remarkable bit of kit that challenged BMW's popular image as being an executive brand in a very big way, and legions of enthusiasts are still discovering its legacy. It's a lot of car for your cash!
This example is in eminently drivable condition and has a vast history. Whether you want to put its pure V12-powered performance through the paces and see just what you can do with it, or bring it up to Concours condition, we have no doubt this car will become a pride of place in your fleet.
Indeed, at $90,000 when new, it was always going to struggle, and BMW were so stung by the fact that they abandoned the 8-Series for nearly thirty years. In retrospect, that's a crying shame - this is a remarkable bit of kit that challenged BMW's popular image as being an executive brand in a very big way, and legions of enthusiasts are still discovering its legacy. It's a lot of car for your cash!
This example is in eminently drivable condition and has a vast history. Whether you want to put its pure V12-powered performance through the paces and see just what you can do with it, or bring it up to Concours condition, we have no doubt this car will become a pride of place in your fleet.
The History and Paperwork
- Registered in 1991
- The DVLA records 13 previous keepers
- In current ownership since August 2023
- Advisory-free MOT until March 2025
- Recently serviced
- The vendor reports that the comes withstacks of folders and history showing the work it's had over the years
- This includes an engine and gearbox rebuild
- Two sets of keys
The Condition
- Handsome blue livery
- Some marks, chips and scuffs, commensurate with age
- This is mostly isolated to panel gaps and sills
- Pop-up lights are lifting correctly
- Alloys have been replaced with aftermarket units
- These look in good order
- Underside looks solid with no perforating corrosion
- Highly original cabin
- Seats are in good order with some scuffs and creasing
- Headlining is sagging somewhat
- Sunroof needs retrimming and we are unsure if it operates correctly
- All instruments are clear and legible
- Carpets are looking a little tired, particularly in the boot
- Glove box latch broken so is held on with cable ties
- Electric seats work as normal
- Windscreen and back window both have sign of oxidation so we're covered by the previous owner with a black strip to hide it
- Back seat vent grille needs replacing
- We understand everything is working as it should
The Mechanics
- 5.0-litre M70B50 V12 powerplant
- Automatic transmission
- Engine and gearbox have been previously rebuilt
- Engine bay in good order
- Exhaust system recently overhauled
- Batteries replaced
- We understand the car to be in good mechanical order
- We've no reports of any faults or issues
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
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