BMW 8 Series E31 | Used Car Buying Guide

The 850CSi also bowed out that year, leaving the 840Ci to hold the fort until it was joined, in early 1997, by a Sport version with lowered suspension but no more power.

Away from the core models, you’ll come across so-called Individual versions of later cars with special colours and seat piping. They’re supposed to be worth a little more than standard models but the 8 Series as a whole is so rare, and good cars rarer still, that condition is the only thing worth paying extra for.

You may also catch sight of the occasional 1994-on 850Ci powered by a 319bhp 5.4-litre V12, but it’ll be an import because it never officially came to the UK.

All versions were generously equipped: dual-zone climate control, a multi-information display, heated seats and automatic stability control. It goes without saying that you should check it all works. Assuming it does, and the rest of the car stacks up, take the plunge before prices get stupid.

BMW 8 Series Past Masters review

HOW TO GET ONE IN YOUR GARAGE

An expert’s view…

Chris Burton, Chris Burton cars

“It all started for me 12 years ago when I took my 850i to the local BMW dealer for some new dashboard bulbs. He wanted £4 each for the bulbs and three hours’ labour to fit them. I’m a qualified mechanic so went home and did it myself but thought: there’s a business here servicing and refurbing Eights. I haven’t looked back. Then, you could pick up an 850i on eBay for £1500. Not any more. I’ve seen prices rise and the trend for restoration really develop. You’ll hear a lot of stuff about the Nikasil problems with 4.0-litre cars but many of them have been scrapped or were fixed by BMW. It’s the bargain in the range.”

BMW 8 Series problems

ENGINE

The V12 leaks oil from its sumps (upper and lower). Check the V12 and V8 don’t smoke on start-up or overrun. If it does, it could be poor fuelling, inlet manifold pressure control valve, worn valves or, worse, piston rings (an engine-out job on the V12). Timing chain tensioners need replacing at around 100,000 miles.

COOLANT SYSTEM

Check the temperature gauge needle sits in the centre and the heater blows hot air. Look for leaks from the auxiliary water pump.

TRANSMISSION

The V12’s clutch is expensive and replacement limited-slip diff crown wheel and pinions are now hard to source. Auto ’box is reliable although a rebuild is about £1800.

SUSPENSION, STEERING AND BRAKES

Front shocks wear out at around 90k miles but the rears last a bit longer. (Aftermarket Bilsteins recommended.) Stick with BMW bushes, which last well. Steering can feel slack at rest but that’s natural. Front discs are around £120 a pair, rears £60.

BODY

It can rust on the sunroof’s leading edge, jacking points and lower rear wheel arches.

ELECTRICS

Generally trouble-free. Used ECUs and modules are plentiful. Check the windscreen wiper system works.

INTERIOR

Ensure all check lights go out. Driver’s seat bolster wears but is repairable.

Also worth knowing…

Sport models have smaller door mirrors, a rear splitter and a larger, lower front spoiler that’s easily clonked on kerbs. They sit lower, too. However, check the paperwork to be sure you’re not looking at a blinged motor.