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BMW 8 Series E31 850Ci 5.4 (326 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 490 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1880 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.3 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.
850Ci 5.4 (326 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The larger 5.4L V12 offers a substantial boost in power and torque, resulting in exhilarating acceleration and effortless high-speed performance, a true grand tourer.
Fuel Economy
Despite the increased displacement and power, the newer M73B54 engine likely offers a slight improvement in efficiency over the earlier V12, though still a premium for 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: 1993 - 1996).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 8 Series |
| Generation: | E31 |
| Modification (Engine): | 850Ci 5.4 (326 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1994 |
| End of production: | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 326 Hp @ 5000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 60.6 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 490 Nm @ 3900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M73B54 More details about the engine M73B54 |
| Engine displacement: | 5379 |
| Number of cylinders: | 12 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8 l |
| Coolant: | 13 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 85 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 79 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 21.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.8 kg/Nm, 260.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1880 |
| Max. weight: | 2300 |
| Max load: | 420 |
| 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: | 2684 mm [36mm more] |
| 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 | 5 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| 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 |
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