1994 BMW 840i Coupe

Description

Developed as a replacement for the much loved 6-series, the E31 8-series was unveiled as BMW’s flagship in 1989, a dynamic sports coupe packed with the latest technology and brimming with luxury features. The 8-series sported elegant but aggressive styling, with pop-up headlamps and a chiselled nose complemented by aggressively flared wheelarches, and certainly looked a worthy successor to the much loved E9 and 6-series coupes. It also proved a genuine competitor for Mercedes-Benz’s new SL. Under the skin, BMW fitted its new multi-link rear suspension complete with passive rear-wheel steering, the latest ASC+T traction control system, electronic dampers and Servotronic steering. Other technological highlights included a water-repellent windscreen, electric windows that sealed once the door was shut, and the first use of a six-speed manual on any production car. Many thought the best model in the BMW 8-series range was the V8-powered 840, its 3982cc unit boasting twin overhead camshafts per bank. The higher-revving (and significantly lighter than the 850’s V12) V8 produced a healthy 286 bhp at 5800 rpm and drove the rear wheels through either a Getrag manual gearbox or ZF five-speed automatic transmission. Launched in September 1993, the 840 Ci remained in production until 1999, by which time just 7803 had been made (from a total 8-series figure of 30,621 units worldwide). Nonetheless, its high price and exorbitant import duties meant that few were ever delivered here. The 840 is now seen as an affordable, elegant, and sophisticated sports coupe, and its status as a future classic among collectors assured.