BMW 840ci or 850ci...
08-02-04, 03:02 PM
#1
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BMW 840ci or 850ci...
What do you guys think of the BMW 840 or 850ci?...I am looking at used '95+... Just though someone here may have some insight into these cars...I am doing some research on this for my father who loves the styling of the car. I personally said he should go with a V8 over the V12...minimal horsepower difference and probably more maintenance friendly...
Also...could not much info on BMW forums...
...any help appreciated...
Also...could not much info on BMW forums...
...any help appreciated...
08-02-04, 03:10 PM
#2
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Great choice. First off, the 8 series is one of my favorite BMW models. I think they were one of the few competitors to the SC when it came out back in the day. You were right about the minimal HP difference between the 40 and 50, and yes, the 50 is plagued with problems. I believe member Emerald has experience with the 8 series, but she hasn't been around for a very very long time. The 840 is pretty compatible with some supercharger systems, and I think there have been some projects of people swapping out the drive train and putting the Corvette drive train in. However, seing as it is for your dad, and he's probably not a huge tuner fread like some people, he'd be plenty happy with an 840. Altogether, being smaller, the 8 series won't hold as much, or be as easy to get in and out of as the earlier 5 or 7 series. I like 'em, I'm sure he would too. Beautiful cars. For those who don't know...
James
James
08-02-04, 03:19 PM
#4
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Originally posted by SexySC
8 series possibly the most beautiful BMW ever. 
8 series possibly the most beautiful BMW ever.
But stay away from the V12. Because it's not really a V12...The Germans are funny that way, connecting engines...Like VW's W8.
That V12 is actually 2 of their line-6 slapped together. That means two fuel pumps, two water pumps, etc. ... you get the idea, and, as a result, the maintanence outlook isn't pretty.
08-02-04, 03:48 PM
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Originally posted by wantAnewLex
Agreed. It's a gorgeous machine. However, the first time I saw one in real life, it was stopped on the side of the highway with three men peering into the engine bay.
But stay away from the V12. Because it's not really a V12...The Germans are funny that way, connecting engines...Like VW's W8.
That V12 is actually 2 of their line-6 slapped together. That means two fuel pumps, two water pumps, etc. ... you get the idea, and, as a result, the maintanence outlook isn't pretty.
Agreed. It's a gorgeous machine. However, the first time I saw one in real life, it was stopped on the side of the highway with three men peering into the engine bay.
But stay away from the V12. Because it's not really a V12...The Germans are funny that way, connecting engines...Like VW's W8.
That V12 is actually 2 of their line-6 slapped together. That means two fuel pumps, two water pumps, etc. ... you get the idea, and, as a result, the maintanence outlook isn't pretty.
Ever since I was clued in about the faux V12, I've been weary of those beautiful 750s I see rolling around every now and again - though they look terrific.
Of course, as exclusive as the 7-series is equipped with the "V12" the 850 is about as exclusive as you can get for the money. The 840 is pretty darn rare too.
I'm guessing the 840 would be just as reliable as any other BMW vehicle from that time equipped with that drivetrain.
Good luck!
08-02-04, 03:57 PM
#6
bimmer 8 series
I believe everyone here shares the same thoughts about this car....beautiful BUT beware!!!
I seriously considered one also until I found out about the problems. No way. This is one of those cars I'll be searching for when I get rich and can afford my own personal mechanic.
I seriously considered one also until I found out about the problems. No way. This is one of those cars I'll be searching for when I get rich and can afford my own personal mechanic.
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08-02-04, 04:14 PM
#8
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Thanks for the replies...there are a few 840's around So Cal...I am trying to get one with less then 90K miles in great condition...usually this puts it at around $20K+/-. My dad really likes the design of the car and we're thinking that the first thing we would do is add some coilovers and possibly an intake, etc...nothing fancy for him 
, but do want to get it a little more "sporty" then the current suspension allows...since it is a touring vehicle.
, but do want to get it a little more "sporty" then the current suspension allows...since it is a touring vehicle.
08-02-04, 08:56 PM
#12
Lexus Fanatic
Do a search in the SC forums. Emerald used to own a few 8-series including both the V8 and V12 I think. Cliffs from memory: she was saying they are excellent freeway cruisers, very stable at speed, but unless you're a BMW mechanic yourself, the cost of maintenance is horrid.
08-02-04, 08:59 PM
#13
Originally posted by lex400sc
Do a search in the SC forums. Emerald used to own a few 8-series including both the V8 and V12 I think. Cliffs from memory: she was saying they are excellent freeway cruisers, very stable at speed, but unless you're a BMW mechanic yourself, the cost of maintenance is horrid.
Do a search in the SC forums. Emerald used to own a few 8-series including both the V8 and V12 I think. Cliffs from memory: she was saying they are excellent freeway cruisers, very stable at speed, but unless you're a BMW mechanic yourself, the cost of maintenance is horrid.
08-02-04, 11:00 PM
#14
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KVA,
I'm no expert, but I hear the 840ci (this model designation specifically), and the 850 made after '96 or '97 (different block) are the most desirable. Between the two, I'd take the 840ci for lower maintainence costs. Good luck in your search.
Mike
I'm no expert, but I hear the 840ci (this model designation specifically), and the 850 made after '96 or '97 (different block) are the most desirable. Between the two, I'd take the 840ci for lower maintainence costs. Good luck in your search.
Mike
