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BMW 8 Series E31 840Ci 4.4 (286 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW 8 Series:
The BMW 8 Series is a range of grand tourer coupes and convertibles produced by BMW.
The 8 Series was introduced in 1990 under the E31 model code and was only available as a two-door coupé. It is powered by a range of naturally aspirated V8 and V12 petrol engines. The E31 started production just as E24 6 Series production ended; however, it is not considered a direct successor. The E31 was discontinued in 1999 due to poor sales.
The model range was later reintroduced in 2018 with the second generation, G15 8 Series. It launched in coupé , convertible , and four-door Gran Coupé body styles, as the successor to the F06/F12/F13 6 Series lineup. The G15 8 Series introduces an inline-six diesel engine, and a high-performance BMW M8 trim later joined the lineup as well as the luxury inspired Alpina B8....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E31 Overview:
BMW 8 Series (E31). With 420 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1780 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.9 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
840Ci 4.4 (286 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
An evolution of the V8, offering similar peak power but with improved torque characteristics and potentially better refinement from the larger displacement M62 engine.
Fuel Economy
Likely slightly more efficient than the 4.0L due to newer engine technology, but still a thirsty V8, requiring premium fuel.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless and distinctive pillarless coupe design
- • Powerful and smooth V8 and V12 engine options
- • Luxurious and comfortable interior, ideal for grand touring
- • Excellent high-speed stability and highway cruising ability
- • Advanced technology for its era (e.g., drive-by-wire, multi-link rear suspension)
- • Increasing collector appeal and classic status
Cons:
- • High maintenance and running costs, especially for V12 models
- • Complex electronics can be prone to issues with age
- • Heavy fuel consumption, particularly in urban driving
- • Limited rear seat space and practicality for more than two occupants
- • Parts can be expensive and sometimes difficult to source
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E31: 1994 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 8 Series |
| Generation: | E31 |
| Modification (Engine): | 840Ci 4.4 (286 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1995 |
| End of production: | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 286 Hp @ 5700 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 65 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 420 Nm @ 3900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M62B44 More details about the engine M62B44 |
| Engine displacement: | 4398 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 7.5 l |
| Coolant: | 13 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 19.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.2 kg/Hp, 160.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.2 kg/Nm, 236 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1780 |
| Max. weight: | 2180 |
| Max load: | 400 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 320 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 90 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4780 mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1855 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1340 mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2648 mm [36mm less] |
| Front track: | 1554 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1562 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the BMW 8 Series rank in your book?