1996 BMW 8 Series Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The 1996 BMW 840Ci (E31) is equipped with the all-aluminum V-8 M62 motor which is, for the most part, bullet-proof provided you maintain the engine in a reasonable fashion. The power is more than adequate for the shear weight of this car—it certainly is no SL (Super Light). In fact, it’s down right beasty in terms of a touring car. The engine is certainly powerful enough to compensate for the ridged construction. The Transmission is quiet and shifts well and spritey with out the need to fiddle about with the sport mode shift feature. Suspension is dampened for city driving and perfect for highway driving for which this car was designed. If you need to take a long trip, the BMW 840Ci is the perfect choice for the long task ahead. Interior is just beautiful and visibility is outstanding. A car of this quality and performance is more than on par with the Porsche 928’s of its day. My greatest concern is an electrical gremlin. So far, no electrical problems. I have the M62 motor and persnickity ZF transmission which can really be a financial disaster if that should fail. A replacement will set you back $6,000 plus labor / installation. Don't be lead to believe that the transmission is maintenance free. It is advisable to change the fluid and filter at about 100,000 miles and be absolutely sure that you use the correct transmission fluid for your specific transmission based on the ID plate located on the transmission housing. Shy away from a compete tranny flush on the ZF transmissions…not advisable at all. I believe that the 1990's 8-Series is the most under valued collectors car that money can buy and I continue to scratch my head as to why more interest and value is not applied to this production run. a very well maintained 840 is currently between $15,000 - $18,000 and is well worth the effort and money. Stay away from the 850 V-12 motor...an utter maintenance disaster and the most dreaded of all BMW motors. If you don't believe me, own one and maintain one for a few year and you'll quickly be a believer. The 840Ci and especially the later model years are the best to seek out and so be prepared to shell out $18,000 or possibly more for a well cared for car. Jul 01, 2009