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In the early 90s, when hair was big and cellphones were bigger, BMW decided to drop a bombshell on the automotive world – the E31 850CSi. This beast wasn’t just about its jaw-dropping looks, complete with pop-up headlights that winked at you like a rockstar on stage. It was the heart-thumping, adrenaline-pumping V12 engine, a masterpiece of German engineering that could make your heart skip a beat.
But here’s the kicker – they only made 1,510 of these bad boys. That’s right, just over a thousand lucky souls got their hands on this beauty, making it as rare as a truthful politician. And in the States? Forget about it. It’s rarer than a sunny day in the UK. Finding one of these in America is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, if the haystack was the size of Texas and the needle was made of pure, unadulterated awesomeness.
As of 2024, well-maintained examples of the BMW E31 850CSi have seen significant appreciation in value. Prices can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location, but top-tier examples have been known to fetch well over $100,000 in recent auctions.
The BMW E31 850CSI’s Timeless Legacy
Fellow gearheads, and those who still think the indicator is an optional extra – we’re about to embark on a journey back in time. But fear not, this is no dull history lesson with dusty textbooks. This is the story of the BMW E31 850CSi, a car that is a roaring, V12-powered slice of history.
Wind your clocks back to an era when flannel shirts were the height of fashion, and the world was just discovering the internet. In this whirlwind of change, a company already renowned for creating some of the finest driving machines, decided to go one better. They created the ultimate grand tourer – the E31 850CSi.
BMW took one look at the rulebook, grinned, and tossed it out the window. The E31 850CSi wasn’t designed to be just fast or just luxurious. It was designed to be both. It came with a V12 engine, the kind of thing you’d usually find in a Bond villain’s lair. This engine wasn’t just a powerhouse; it was a masterpiece, capable of delivering a symphony that would make Beethoven sit up and take notice.
The 850CSI was as sophisticated as a classic Swiss watch. The design was sleek and unapologetically aggressive. Pop-up headlights, the long hood, the short rear deck – every inch of this car screamed ‘look at me!’
Now, here’s where it gets even more interesting. BMW decided that this car was going to be exclusive. They made just over 1,500 of them. This exclusivity wasn’t just a marketing ploy. It had more to do with the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into each car. Every 850CSi was hand-built, a process that ensured that each one was as close to automotive nirvana as possible.
The impact of the E31 850CSi on BMW’s brand prestige was like a meteor strike. It elevated the company to a new stratosphere of respect and admiration. It showed the world that BMW wasn’t just about making cars for the everyman – they were about making dreams come true on four wheels.
This BMW gem left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape and continues to be one of the most coveted collectible cars in the world. This car redefined what a grand tourer could be. It blended luxury and performance in a way that hadn’t been seen before. It was a car that didn’t compromise, didn’t settle for second best. It set a standard, a benchmark that cars are still measured against today.
Hunting the Elusive E31 850CSi in Europe
Before you start your quest for the E31 850CSi, equip yourself with the essentials: a laptop, a reliable internet connection, and a bucket-load of patience. This may be a life-long quest. Oh, and maybe brush up on your German. That might help too.
The Digital Hunt
Begin your quest in the vast digital wilderness – the internet. Websites like Mobile.de or Autoscout24 are your best friends. These are the watering holes where sellers of rare European cars gather. Keep your eyes peeled for listings, but beware of mirages – if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. This vehicle is as coveted and valuable in Europe as it is stateside. It won’t hurt to have someone on the ground in Europe to kick the tires and make the deal if you come across a good specimen.
Join the Clubs
Get yourself into BMW clubs and online forums. These are the places where fellow enthusiasts gather to share tales of their conquests. They’re goldmines of information, and sometimes, just sometimes, you might find someone willing to part with their prized 850CSi. Remember, in the world of rare car hunting, it’s not just what you know, it’s who you know. Make connections, shake hands (or bump elbows), and let everyone know you’re on the hunt for an 850CSi. Word of mouth can be incredibly powerful.
Scour the Continent
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, take a trip to Europe. Germany, the homeland of BMW, is a great starting point, but expect to have to visit a couple of more countries during your search. Visit classic car dealerships, attend car shows and auctions. The more ground you cover, the better your chances.
Be Ready to Pounce
When you do find that dream 850CSi, be ready to act fast. Have your finances in order, be prepared to negotiate, and remember – if you hesitate, you could miss your chance. Again, having someone on the spot in Europe who can help inspect the vehicle and negotiate for you could make all the difference. Whether you’ve hired someone to do this for you or you’re purchasing in person, make sure you understand all of the paperwork, wire transfer information, and everything else involved in purchasing a vehicle as a foreigner in various European countries. Laws and regulations can sometimes vary from region to region in the same country.
Finally, remember that finding a BMW E31 850CSi is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s going to take time, effort, and a fair bit of luck. You might encounter false starts, dead ends, and perhaps even a few heartbreaks along the way. But keep your spirits high and your eyes on the prize. The hunt for a BMW E31 850CSI is not for the faint of heart.
Owning and Maintenance of a BMW E31 850CSI
The limited production run makes the E31 850CSi one of the rarest BMWs of its era, significantly enhancing its collectability and value. But, potential collectors should be aware of the complexity of the V12 engine and the associated maintenance costs. Regular servicing by BMW specialists is crucial for keeping these vehicles in top condition.
The BMW E31 850CSi represents a unique moment in automotive history, combining cutting-edge technology of its time with timeless design and exhilarating performance. Its rarity and significance in BMW’s lineup make it a highly desirable addition to any serious car collection.
First things first, if you thought finding an 850CSi was hard, wait until you try to find a mechanic who knows their way around one. These cars are rarer than a politician’s promise, remember? Your average Joe’s Garage isn’t going to cut it. You need a BMW specialist, someone who can speak fluent V12, and doesn’t faint at the sight of a complex German wiring diagram.
Now, let’s talk parts. Trying to find original parts for an 850CSI in the States is not impossible, but it sure ain’t easy. You might find yourself making some interesting new pen pals in Europe as you scour the Earth for that one specific gizmo that makes your car go vroom. The aforementioned BMW or collectors clubs online will help.
And let’s not forget about the elephant in the room – that glorious, thirsty V12 engine. This beast doesn’t sip fuel, it guzzles it like a frat boy at a keg party. But hey, if you’re driving an 850CSI, you’re probably not too worried about gas prices, right? Just don’t be surprised if your local gas station attendant starts greeting you by name.
Electronic gremlins? Oh, you bet. The 850CSi has more computers than NASA circa 1969. When something goes wrong, diagnosing the issue can be like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube… while wearing oven mitts. But owning an 850CSi in North America isn’t just owning a car. It’s joining a very exclusive club. It’s becoming part of a legacy. It’s making a statement that says, “Yes, I’m passionate about cars and no, I don’t care what you think about it.”
So, to all you brave souls out there keeping these magnificent machines alive on American soil, we salute you. You’re not just maintaining a car – you’re preserving a legend.
Engine and Performance
Engine: 5.6-liter S70B56 V12
Power output: 375 hp (380 PS; 280 kW)
Torque: 550 N⋅m (406 lb⋅ft)
Top speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h)
0-60 mph acceleration: Approximately 5.9 seconds
The S70B56 engine was a high-performance version of BMW’s M70 V12, specially developed for the 850CSi by BMW’s M division.
Transmission and Drivetrain
6-speed manual transmission (standard)
Rear-wheel drive
Limited-slip differential
The 850CSi was only offered with a manual transmission, appealing to driving enthusiasts and adding to its collectible status.
Chassis and Suspension
Model-specific suspension tuning
Recalibrated steering
Larger brakes with floating front rotors
Forged alloy wheels (17×8.5 front, 17×9.5 rear)
These enhancements contributed to improved handling and performance compared to the standard 8-Series models.
Exterior Design
Pop-up headlights
Long hood and short rear deck design
Model-specific front and rear bumpers
Unique side skirts and rear spoiler
The 850CSi’s sleek design, with its distinctive pop-up headlights, has become iconic and contributes significantly to its appeal among collectors.
Interior Features
Leather upholstery
Sport seats
Model-specific steering wheel
On-board computer
Automatic climate control
The interior combined luxury with a driver-focused layout, typical of high-end BMWs of the era.