1991-1997 BMW 8-Series: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Traction control
- Antilock brakes
- Ride
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Price
- Passenger room
Vehicle Highlights
Building upon the idea of its luxurious 750iL sedan, BMW turned to a comparable 2+2 coupe for 1991. Introduced in June 1990, it served as the successor to BMW's 635CSi coupe and cost even more than the 750iL. BMW's familiar "twin-kidney" grille was installed, but the rear-drive 850i wore hidden headlamps, a feature never before seen on BMW models in the U.S. Although its 296-horsepower, 5.0-liter V12 engine came from the 750iL, the new 850i was created with a more sporty demeanor. Either a 4-speed automatic or a new 6-speed manual transmission could be installed. Standard 850i features included Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which limited power to the rear wheels when wheel slippage was detected during acceleration. Models with manual shift got a different version, ASC + T, which also applied brakes to the rear wheels to restore traction. The 850i was the first model to use BMW's new Seat-Integrated Belt system, which integrated the belt system into the seat instead of anchoring it to the floor and/or roof pillars. All 850i coupes had a driver's airbag and antilock braking. Electronic Damping Control (EDC III) became optional in the fall, several months after the 850i went on sale. With EDC III, suspension firmness adjusted automatically based on how the car was being driven. In addition, the driver could choose Comfort or Sport setting, using an interior switch. Rivals included the Mercedes-Benz 500SL roadster, joined later by the Lexus SC 400.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | BMW 8-Series Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series.
Year to Year Changes
1992 BMW 8-Series:
A gearshift interlock was among the few changes to BMW's high-level 2+2 coupe in its second season, to prevent the automatic transmission from shifting out of park unless the brake pedal was applied. BMW's optional Electronic Damping Control gained a more pronounced differentiation between its Comfort and Sport modes. Pressing the end of the wiper and turn-signal stalks now allowed the driver to scroll through the cellular phone's stored numbers, place a call, or end a call.
1993 BMW 8-Series:
BMW renamed its 2+2 coupe the 850Ci, thus emphasizing its coupe body style. A passenger-side airbag joined the original driver's airbag, and the cabin gained maple trim. Rear seatbacks now split and folded, and contained a new trunk pass-through. Either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic could be installed.
1994 BMW 8-Series:
A new V8 model, named 840Ci, joined this lineup this year. It used the same 282-horsepower, 4.0-liter V8 engine as the 740i/iL sedan, driving a 5-speed automatic transmission. Also new was a limited-edition 12-cylinder model, called 850CSi, fitted with a 372-horsepower, 5.6-liter V12. That one came with a 6-speed gearbox, sport suspension, lower ride height, and 17-inch tires. Only a 4-speed automatic transmission was available in this year's 850Ci coupe, which added such standard features as interior wood trim, a remote control antitheft alarm, front center armrest, and 250-watt stereo system.
1995 BMW 8-Series:
As the 1995 model year began, the 840Ci was the only model to reach dealerships, essentially unchanged. Later, only a few 840Ci and 850CSi coupes arrived for sale. The regular V12 engine for the 850Ci grew in size, to 5.4 liters and a 322-horsepower rating.
1996 BMW 8-Series:
The high-performance 850CSi coupe was gone, leaving only the 840Ci and 850Ci. The 840Ci got a new 4.4-liter V8 engine when production began early in 1996. Servotronic variable-assist power steering was standard on both models. Maple interior trim, already in the 850Ci, was added to the 840Ci's interior. Electronic Damping Control, adjusting suspension firmness based on how the car was driven, was standard on the 850Ci and a new option for the 840Ci.
1997 BMW 8-Series:
Final versions of BMW's biggest coupe went on sale in summer 1996, showing no significant change.
Our road test for the 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Considered to be classic "grand touring" cars, close to exotic-car level, the 8-Series BMWs were fast, comfortable, stylish, and safe. They were also big, heavy, and thirsty, fitted with plenty of high-tech gear but lacking head and leg space in the back for anyone much above toddler size. The silken V12 engine can quickly shove you back in your seat as you effortlessly overtake other traffic. It's also so flexible you can toddle along at 1000 rpm or so in sixth gear (with manual shift), without "lugging" the engine. Performance from a V8 doesn't lag all that far behind, but both engines guzzle fuel. The 6-speed manual gearbox shifts cleanly, but doesn't help gas mileage much. We averaged 16.4 mpg in an early model, including a lot of highway driving. Ride quality is good for a high-performance automobile, though the Comfort setting lets the nose float slightly over freeway bumps, whereas in Sport mode, the suspension can jitter over washboard surfaces. Steering is firm and communicative, brakes strong, cornering ability on dry pavement outstanding with little body lean. Even with traction control unobtrusively limiting rear-wheel slippage, however, taking a corner too quickly on wet pavement causes this car's tail to slide sideways. Fitting more than two adults inside without cramping everyone isn't so easy. The standard sunroof limits head room for tall people in front. Cargo space also is in short supply. Gauges and controls are logically arrayed, while the standard tilt/telescope steering wheel and supportive seat accommodate a wide range of drivers.
Value for the Money
The 8-Series was a slow seller from the start, partly due to its being prohibitively expensive for all but the very rich. Used-car prices are no bargains, either. An 840Ci always made the most sense from a cost standpoint, because the V12 engine in the 850Ci was not far enough ahead in performance to justify its markedly higher price.
The 8-Series was a slow seller from the start, partly due to its being prohibitively expensive for all but the very rich. Used-car prices are no bargains, either. An 840Ci always made the most sense from a cost standpoint, because the V12 engine in the 850Ci was not far enough ahead in performance to justify its markedly higher price.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | BMW 8-Series Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation BMW 8-Series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation BMW 8-Series .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
The air conditioner compressor will shut down if the belt slips, which can occur after driving through a puddle and can be fixed by bypassing the A/C lock sensor control module. (1990-92)
Dashboard lights:
Several problems with the hazard warning lights and turn signals activating by themselves, not blinking, etc. have been traced to problems with the flasher relay or the crash-sensor control module. (1992-95)
Poor transmission shift:
The synchronizers in six-speed manual transmission get damaged if anything other than Dexron II automatic transmission fluid is used, causing notchy shifting. (1990-97)
Rough idle:
Engine may idle too high or run poorly (accompanied by a check engine light) due to vacuum leaks in the manifold gasket and/or leaking vacuum plugs on the fuel pressure regulator. (1997)
Rough idle:
Engine idles rough due to knock sensor picking up noise from water pump chatter when transmission is in drive and the air conditioning is on. (1997)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $815 |
| Alternator | $925 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $810 |
| Brakes | $800 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $980 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,500 |
| Exhaust System | $890 |
| Radiator | $720 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,500 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $415 |
Our price chart for this generation BMW 8-Series details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1997 | |||
| 840Ci | $13,200-15,000 | $12,000-13,700 | $7,700-8,700 |
| 850Ci | $16,500-18,000 | $15,000-16,400 | $10,600-11,500 |
| 1996 | |||
| 840Ci | $11,500-13,200 | $10,400-11,900 | $6,300-7,300 |
| 850Ci | $14,800-16,500 | $13,500-15,000 | $9,300-10,400 |
| 1995 | |||
| 840Ci | $10,000-11,700 | $9,000-10,500 | $5,200-6,100 |
| 850CSi | $18,000-20,000 | $16,600-18,400 | $11,500-12,800 |
| 850Ci | $13,000-14,500 | $11,800-13,200 | $7,500-8,400 |
| 1994 | |||
| 840Ci | $8,800-10,500 | $7,900-9,500 | $4,600-5,500 |
| 850CSi | $16,000-17,500 | $14,600-15,900 | $10,200-11,200 |
| 850Ci | $11,500-13,000 | $10,400-11,700 | $6,300-7,200 |
| 1993 | |||
| 850i | $10,000-11,200 | $9,000-10,100 | $5,200-5,800 |
| 1992 | |||
| 850i | $9,000-10,200 | $8,100-9,200 | $4,700-5,300 |
| 1991 | |||
| 850i | $8,000-9,000 | $7,200-8,100 | $4,100-4,600 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation BMW 8-Series include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 105.7 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 188.2 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 52.8 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4150 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.3 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 23.8 | |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.3 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | -- | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 34.9 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two versions of the 8-Series coupe were available, with either a V8 engine or a V12. Power ratings and engine sizes varied through the years. Initially, the sole engine was a 5.0-liter V12, making 296 horsepower. A 4.0-liter V8 went into the new 840Ci coupe in 1994. That model switched to a 4.4-liter V8 in 1996, making the same 282 horsepower but generating greater torque output. During 1995, a larger V12 engine (5.4-liter) went into the 850Ci, developing 322 horsepower. Strongest engine of the lot was the 372-horsepower, 5.6-liter V12 installed in the high-performance 850CSi. Depending on model and year, an 8-Series coupe could have a 6-speed manual gearbox, or a 4- or 5-speed automatic transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 4.4 / 268 | 282 | 310 | 5-speed automatic: 15/20 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V12 | 5.6 / 340 | 372 | 402 | 6-speed manual: 12/20 | 6-speed manual: -- |
| dohc V8 | 4.0 / 243 | 282 | 295 | 5-speed automatic: 16/24 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V12 | 5.0 / 304 | 296 | 332 | 6-speed manual: 12/19 4-speed automatic: 12/18 |
6-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V12 | 5.4 / 328 | 322 | 361 | 5-speed automatic: 14/20 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation BMW 8-Series include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1991-1997 BMW 8-Series directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1991-92 850i:
Airbag contact-ring locking tab in steering wheel assembly can break without warning, possibly causing wiring to break and preventing airbag from deploying in a collision.
1991-95:
Malfunction or failure of cooling system component can result in significantly increased coolant temperature and system pressure. 1994: Remote activation device can close windows and sunroof from a distance greater than the maximum (6 meters) permitted by Federal standard.
1994-97 840Ci:
Plastic housing on cruise-control or throttle cable could break due to environmental influences, coupled with vibration, leading to separation; could result in throttle valve remaining partially open.
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