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.

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

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..