The BMW 8 Series is BMW’s luxury grand touring car. It combines premium comfort, modern technology, and strong performance. The lineup includes standard models, diesel versions, performance models, and high-performance BMW M models.
Not every BMW 8 Series is the same. Some models focus on smooth daily driving, while others deliver powerful engines and sporty handling. From the elegant 840i to the exciting M8 Competition, each variant offers a different driving experience.
In this guide, you will learn about all BMW 8 Series variants. We will cover the standard models, diesel models, performance versions, BMW M models, and the special 850CSi. This overview will help you understand the key differences and choose the model that best fits your needs.
BMW 8 Series Standard Models
BMW 8 Series Standard Models are built for drivers who want luxury, comfort, and strong performance in one package. These models are designed for everyday driving as well as long-distance travel. They offer premium interiors, advanced technology, and smooth handling. Popular standard models include the BMW 840i, 840Ci, 850i, and 850Ci.
The standard models come with different engine options to suit different driving styles. Some use efficient inline-six engines, while others feature powerful V8 engines. Depending on the model and market, rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive is available. Every model is paired with an automatic transmission for a refined driving experience.
BMW 8 Series Standard Models are ideal for buyers who want a grand touring car without stepping into the full BMW M lineup. They provide a balance of performance, luxury, and everyday usability. Each model has its own strengths, making it easier for drivers to choose the version that matches their needs and budget.
BMW 840i
The BMW 840i is one of the most popular models in the BMW 8 Series lineup. It offers a great mix of luxury, comfort, and performance. The car is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. In Germany and the USA, it produces around 335 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission comes as standard. Depending on the market, it is available with rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive.
Inside, the BMW 840i features a premium cabin with high-quality materials and modern technology. Drivers get a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment display, wireless smartphone connectivity, and advanced driver assistance features. The seats are comfortable for both daily driving and long road trips. The suspension is tuned to deliver a smooth and refined ride.
The BMW 840i is a good choice for buyers who want a luxury grand tourer without moving to a V8 engine. It delivers quick acceleration, responsive handling, and good fuel efficiency for its class. Maintenance costs are generally lower than V8-powered models, making it a practical option for long-term ownership.
BMW 840Ci
The BMW 840Ci was introduced as part of the original E31 BMW 8 Series. It replaced the earlier 840i in many markets and offered a refined grand touring experience. The car was powered by a 4.4-liter or later a 4.0-liter V8 engine, depending on the production year and market. It delivered smooth performance and was paired with an automatic transmission.
The 840Ci focused on comfort, luxury, and effortless driving. Its elegant coupe design, premium leather interior, and advanced features made it one of BMW’s flagship models of the 1990s. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, while the V8 engine provided quiet and confident power on highways.
Today, the BMW 840Ci is considered a modern classic. Many enthusiasts appreciate its timeless styling and reliable V8 engine. Well-maintained examples are becoming harder to find, making the 840Ci a desirable choice for collectors and BMW fans alike.
BMW 850i
The BMW 850i was one of the first models introduced in the original BMW 8 Series lineup. It featured a powerful 5.0-liter V12 engine that delivered smooth and refined performance. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission, depending on the model year and market. The 850i was designed to offer a true grand touring experience.
The 850i stood out for its luxury and advanced engineering. It came with a premium interior, high-quality leather seats, and many comfort features that were impressive for its time. The car also included advanced technology, such as electronic throttle control and sophisticated suspension systems. Its sleek coupe design gave it a distinctive and elegant appearance.
Today, the BMW 850i is a favorite among classic BMW enthusiasts. The V12 engine provides effortless power and a unique driving feel. While maintenance costs can be higher than V8 models, the 850i remains a special choice for drivers who appreciate performance, luxury, and automotive history.
BMW 850Ci
The BMW 850Ci was the flagship model of the original BMW 8 Series. It replaced the early 850i in many markets and continued the legacy of the luxury grand tourer. Depending on the production year, it was powered by either a 5.0-liter or a 5.4-liter V12 engine. The engine delivered smooth acceleration and effortless highway performance.
The 850Ci offered a high level of comfort and refinement. Its cabin featured premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and advanced technology for its time. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, while the V12 engine ensured quiet and powerful performance. The elegant coupe design gave the car a timeless and premium look.
Today, the BMW 850Ci is regarded as one of the most desirable classic BMW models. It combines luxury, performance, and rare V12 engineering in a single package. Although ownership costs can be higher than other 8 Series models, many enthusiasts consider the 850Ci a rewarding car to own and preserve.
BMW 8 Series Diesel Models
BMW 8 Series Diesel Models are made for drivers who want luxury with better fuel efficiency. These models deliver strong performance while using less fuel than most petrol versions. They are especially popular for long-distance driving and highway travel. The main diesel model in the lineup is the BMW 840d xDrive.
The BMW 840d xDrive is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engine. It offers strong torque, smooth acceleration, and confident all-wheel-drive performance. An eight-speed automatic transmission comes as standard. The combination of power and efficiency makes it a practical grand touring car.
BMW 8 Series Diesel Models are a great choice for buyers who cover many miles each year. They provide premium comfort, advanced technology, and lower fuel consumption without sacrificing performance. For many drivers, the diesel variant offers an excellent balance of luxury, efficiency, and everyday usability.
BMW 840d xDrive
The BMW 840d xDrive is the diesel-powered model in the BMW 8 Series lineup. It is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engine. In Germany and many international markets, it produces around 340 horsepower and strong torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The 840d xDrive is designed for smooth and efficient long-distance driving. It offers quick acceleration while delivering excellent fuel economy for a luxury grand tourer. The xDrive system improves traction and stability in different road and weather conditions. Inside, the cabin features premium materials, advanced infotainment, and a comfortable seating layout.
The BMW 840d xDrive is a practical choice for drivers who want both performance and efficiency. It combines strong pulling power with lower fuel consumption than the petrol models. Although diesel versions are not available in every market, they remain popular in regions where long-distance driving and fuel efficiency are important.
BMW 8 Series Performance Models
BMW 8 Series Performance Models are designed for drivers who want more power and a sportier driving experience. These models sit between the standard 8 Series and the full BMW M8 range. They offer stronger acceleration, sharper handling, and more aggressive styling. The main performance model in the lineup is the BMW M850i xDrive.
The M850i xDrive uses a powerful 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. In Germany and the USA, it produces around 523 horsepower. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The suspension, brakes, and steering are tuned to deliver a more dynamic driving feel.
BMW 8 Series Performance Models are ideal for buyers who want luxury and excitement in the same car. They provide the comfort of a grand tourer while offering performance close to the full M models. For many drivers, the M850i xDrive is the perfect balance between everyday usability and high-performance driving.
BMW M850i xDrive
The BMW M850i xDrive is the performance-focused model in the BMW 8 Series lineup. A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine powers it. In Germany and the USA, it produces around 523 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system for fast and confident performance.
The M850i xDrive delivers quick acceleration and precise handling. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in about 3.9 seconds. The car also features M Sport brakes, adaptive suspension, and a sport-tuned exhaust system. Inside, the cabin offers premium leather, advanced infotainment, and the latest driver assistance features.
The BMW M850i xDrive is an excellent choice for drivers who want luxury with serious performance. It is more powerful than the standard 840i models but more comfortable for daily driving than the full M8. This balance makes it one of the most appealing variants in the BMW 8 Series range.
BMW M8 Models
BMW M8 Models are the highest-performance versions of the BMW 8 Series. They are developed by BMW M for drivers who want maximum power and sporty handling. As a result, they combine luxury with track-inspired performance. The lineup includes the BMW M8 and the BMW M8 Competition.
Both models use a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. In addition, they feature BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for outstanding traction and control. Furthermore, they receive upgraded brakes, suspension, steering, and aerodynamic components compared to other 8 Series models.
BMW M8 Models are built for enthusiasts who want an exciting driving experience without sacrificing everyday comfort. At the same time, they offer advanced technology and premium interiors. Overall, the M8 models represent the highest level of performance in the BMW 8 Series family.
BMW M8
The BMW M8 is the high-performance flagship of the BMW 8 Series. A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine powers it. In Germany and the USA, it produces around 600 horsepower. Additionally, the engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for outstanding performance.
The BMW M8 delivers exceptional speed and precise handling. For instance, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in about 3.3 seconds. Moreover, the car features adaptive M suspension, high-performance brakes, and an active rear differential. Consequently, it provides excellent stability and control in different driving conditions.
The BMW M8 is designed for drivers who want both everyday comfort and supercar-level performance. At the same time, it offers a luxurious interior with advanced technology. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for buyers who want premium comfort without compromising on speed.
BMW M8 Competition
The BMW M8 Competition is the most powerful production model in the BMW 8 Series lineup. It uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. In Germany and the USA, it produces around 617 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque. Additionally, the engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The M8 Competition is built for maximum performance. For example, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in about 3.2 seconds. Furthermore, it features a specially tuned suspension, M Sport exhaust, upgraded brakes, and precise steering. As a result, it delivers sharper handling than the standard M8.
The BMW M8 Competition is the ideal choice for drivers seeking the highest level of performance within the 8 Series range. At the same time, it maintains the comfort and luxury expected from a BMW flagship. Overall, its aggressive styling, advanced technology, and powerful V8 engine make it the ultimate BMW 8 Series variant.
BMW 8 Series Special Model
The BMW 8 Series Special Model refers to the rare and highly respected BMW 850CSi. It was created for enthusiasts who wanted more performance and exclusivity than the standard 8 Series. As a result, BMW built it in limited numbers. Today, it is one of the most collectible 8 Series models.
The 850CSi received many upgrades compared to the regular 850i and 850Ci models. For example, it features a specially tuned V12 engine, a sportier suspension, improved brakes, and distinctive styling details. In addition, it was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. Therefore, it delivers a more engaging driving experience.
Today, the BMW 850CSi is considered a classic BMW icon. Because of its rarity and engineering, collectors highly value this model. Overall, it represents one of the most special chapters in the history of the BMW 8 Series.
BMW 850CSi
The BMW 850CSi is the rarest and most performance-focused version of the original BMW 8 Series. It was introduced in the 1990s as the flagship model of the E31 generation. Furthermore, it is powered by a 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, known as the BMW S70 engine. It produces around 375 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
The 850CSi received many upgrades over the standard 850i and 850Ci models. For instance, it features a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, revised steering, and unique exterior styling. As a result, it offers sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience. Meanwhile, the cabin provides premium leather, luxury features, and a driver-focused design.
Today, the BMW 850CSi is one of the most collectible BMW models ever built. Because of its limited production and powerful V12 engine, it remains highly desirable among enthusiasts. Although maintenance can be expensive, the 850CSi continues to be a true classic that represents the best of the original BMW 8 Series.
Conclusion
The BMW 8 Series offers a wide range of models to suit different driving needs and preferences. From the comfortable 840i to the powerful M8 Competition, every variant has its own strengths. Whether you value luxury, efficiency, or performance, there is a model designed for you. In addition, the rare 850CSi adds a unique chapter to the history of the BMW 8 Series.
Overall, choosing the right BMW 8 Series variant depends on your driving style, budget, and expectations. By understanding the differences between each model, you can make a more informed decision. Ultimately, whether you prefer a refined grand tourer, an efficient diesel, or a high-performance BMW M model, the BMW 8 Series delivers an exceptional driving experience.
FAQs
1. What are the different BMW 8 Series variants?
The BMW 8 Series lineup includes the 840i, 840Ci, 850i, 850Ci, 840d xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, M8 Competition, and the special 850CSi. Together, these variants offer options for luxury, efficiency, and high performance.
2. Which BMW 8 Series variant is the most powerful?
The BMW M8 Competition is the most powerful production model. In fact, its 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces around 617 horsepower, making it the flagship performance variant.
3. Which BMW 8 Series variant is best for daily driving?
The BMW 840i is one of the best choices for everyday driving. It offers an excellent balance of comfort, performance, fuel efficiency, and modern technology.
4. What makes the BMW 850CSi different from other 8 Series models?
The BMW 850CSi is a limited-production model with a specially tuned 5.6-liter V12 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. As a result, it is one of the most desirable and collectible BMW 8 Series models.
5. Is the BMW 840d xDrive available in all markets?
No. The BMW 840d xDrive was mainly offered in Europe and selected international markets. However, it was not officially sold in the United States, making its availability more limited.
