Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering wheel.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction).
Electrical System:
12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Chassis construction, body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, convertible top (if applicable to later models or derivatives not explicitly stated but implied by manual coverage), exterior trim.
Interior:
Seating systems, dashboard, instrument cluster, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), interior trim, door panels, headliner.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system, HVAC unit, refrigerant system, diagnostic and repair procedures.
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, electrical routing.
Comfort Features:
Power seats, memory seats, heated seats, cruise control, power windows, power mirrors.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pretensioners, diagnostic and troubleshooting for SRS.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter), transmission service and repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, steering system repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW GT1 or DIS interfaces conceptually), electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics.
Specific ratios for 1st through 6th gear and reverse are detailed in the manual.
Automatic Gear Ratios 5Hp30:
Specific ratios for gears 1-5 and reverse are detailed in the manual.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4780 mm (approx.)
Width:
1850 mm (approx.)
Height:
1370 mm (approx.)
Wheelbase:
2630 mm (approx.)
Weights
Curb Weight:
1700-1900 kg (varies by engine and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR specifications are detailed for each model variant.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
As a 1990s vehicle, formal crash test ratings (like NHTSA/Euro NCAP) might be limited or non-comparable to modern standards, but the manual covers safety system diagnostics.
Active Features
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger airbags (SRS), reinforced safety cell, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Early models featured a cassette player and basic radio. Later models offered optional CD players and early navigation systems (e.g., BMW Business or Professional).
Speaker System:
Standard hi-fi audio systems with multiple speakers, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon on select models).
Limited by era; primarily focused on internal vehicle systems rather than external connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Manual provides specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine, generally 60,000-100,000 miles. Specific intervals in the manual.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or as per manual instructions.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended. Manual specifies exact viscosity and type based on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 - 7.5 liters (depending on engine variant).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (ZF approved). Manual specifies exact fluid type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity grade to be confirmed in manual).
Coolant Specification:
BMW G48 Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Coolant expansion tanks (prone to cracking), window regulators, ABS sensors, door seal deterioration, VANOS system (on later M62 engines).
Engine Specific Issues:
M60 engines can suffer from timing chain guide wear and oil leaks. M62 VANOS solenoids can fail.
Electrical Quirks:
Age-related electrical component failure, especially due to degraded wiring insulation and corroded connectors.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury automotive manufacturing.
Model Evolution
E31 Development:
Developed to compete with other high-end GT cars, featuring advanced technology and a focus on comfort and performance for long-distance driving.
Engine Progression:
Started with the M60 V8s, transitioned to the improved M62 V8s, and featured the exclusive S70 V12 for the top-tier 850CSi.
Trim Levels:
840Ci, 850i, 850Ci, 850CSi.
Production
Production Years:
1989-2000
Production Location:
Dingolfing Plant, Germany
Production Volume:
Approximately 30,600 units produced across all variants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
While specific awards might not be readily quantifiable like modern vehicles, the 8 Series was lauded for its design, engineering, and performance by automotive journalists of its time. It was considered a benchmark luxury GT.
Ratings
Design Acclaim:
Frequently praised for its timeless styling and aerodynamic efficiency.
Certifications
Engineering Standards:
Manufactured to BMW's high-quality engineering and production standards.