Exploring the heritage of the BMW 8 Series, particularly the E31 model, demands dispelling a prevalent misconception. The E31 8 Series wasn't conceived as a direct successor to the 6 Series coupe despite their overlapping production phases. BMW envisioned the 8 Series for a more discerning clientele, positioning it as a high-end contender against formidable rivals like the V12-powered Jaguar XJS and the Porsche 968 in its 4.0-litre V8 guise. The BMW stands out in this esteemed company by offering a unique blend of luxury and performance, setting itself apart from other sports cars and coupes with its distinct approach to grand touring.
A Masterpiece at Overdrive Motors: The 1998 BMW 840Ci Sport Individual Coupe
Overdrive Motors is proud to present an exceptional 1998 BMW 840Ci Sport Individual Coupe, a magnificent fusion of opulence and dynamism. This prestigious variant, offered exclusively from 1997 to 2000, is a collector's dream, showcasing just 90,162 miles on the odometer. Powered by a formidable 4,398cc V8 engine, it boasts an impressive 286 bhp, enabling acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, and reaching a top speed of 155 mph. Its grandeur is evident in its dimensions, presenting a commanding presence on the road.
This BMW 840Ci Sport is not merely about performance; it epitomises seamless driving pleasure with its automatic 5-speed gearbox and rear-wheel drive. The cabin, accommodating five passengers, marries sportiness with luxury, making for both thrilling and serene journeys. The car's exterior, finished in striking Estoril Blue, alongside well-kept wheels, underscores BMW's commitment to performance coupled with luxury.
Moreover, this model comes with a valid MOT until September 2024, recent servicing, and a comprehensive history of manuals, services, and MOT records. Its safety and functionality features, including anti-lock brakes and pop-up headlights, ensure a secure yet stylish drive. The interior boasts a grey leather finish, air conditioning, central locking, and a high-fidelity BMW speaker system, among other luxury features, affirming its sporty yet comfortable essence.
The 8 Series: A Modern Classic Redefined
The BMW 8 Series, with our 840Ci at the forefront, embodies daring design and luxury, marking it as a rapidly appreciating modern classic. It navigates the fine line between a sports car and a grand tourer with ease, thanks to its aerodynamic efficiency with a drag coefficient of 0.29. This engineering excellence positions the 8 Series as a standout in both categories, offering the exhilarating drive of a sports car with the comfort and refinement of a grand tourer.
With a mere 31,621 units produced globally, the 8 Series' rarity only adds to its appeal. Our specific BMW 840Ci is one of just 224 released in 1998, making it a scarce gem, especially as numbers have dwindled to 173 licensed units in the UK by the third quarter of 2023. This scarcity signals its emergence as a sought-after classic, increasingly cherished by collectors aware of its uniqueness and allure.
Design and Comfort: The Hallmarks of the E31
Klaus Kapitza's visionary design has endowed the E31 with a timeless elegance, featuring a wedge-shaped profile and distinctive pop-up headlamps that evoke a sense of nostalgia while remaining unequivocally stylish. Inside, the 8 Series offers an opulent environment with sumptuously upholstered leather seats and an intuitive dashboard layout. The lack of a B-pillar, complemented by the integration of seatbelts into the headrests, accentuates the vehicle's sleek form and functional ingenuity, enhancing its spacious interior and capacious boot.
Performance Meets Elegance: The Drive of the 840Ci
Beneath the bonnet, the 840Ci's V8 engine delivers a harmonious blend of power and refinement. While it may not match the raw power of the V12 models, its balanced performance and formidable grip make it the epitome of the E31 series. This balance of luxury and subtle sportiness makes the 840Ci an increasingly coveted classic among enthusiasts and collectors alike.
A Wise Investment for the Discerning Collector
Prospective owners should meticulously inspect the 840Ci's mechanical and structural integrity. Despite its robustness, attention to potential rust areas and natural wear is crucial. However, its status as a quintessential 90s grand tourer, combined with its rarity and distinctive features, makes the BMW 840Ci a prudent acquisition for classic car collectors, particularly those looking to secure a piece of automotive history before its full value is universally recognised. This car is not just a means of transportation; it's a statement of luxury, performance, and timeless appeal.
Currently in the Overdrive Motors Showroom it is a car to be explored and test driven, certainly one to add to the collection.
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