BMW V12 850csi – exceptional example
By the mid 90s, BMW were riding the crest of a wave. The company was experiencing a surge in sales, which allowed them to develop cars for their range that really pushed the envelope. In those days, the enthusiasts within BMW ruled the roost. So, when the E24 6 series was due for replacement, BMW went all out. The resulting 8 series took the world by storm, with looks to die for and exciting engine configurations. But whilst the 8 series was an accomplished GT car, the model lacked a truly inspiring flagship. Cue the 850csi – the closest BMW came to making a production ‘M8’.
Powered by a Motorsport-designed multi-valve 5.6 litre V12 engine – that would later go on in adapted form to power the game-changing Maclaren F1 – producing 380bhp with a colossal 545Nm of torque. The 850csi was the most expensive car BMW had made up to that point. It featured a wealth of new tech – from four wheel steer to the powerplant itself – fantastic spec, and oodles of charisma. The now classic – and much missed – lines, the pillarless windows, pop-up headlights and fighter-pilot style cockpit all make the 850csi the archetypal modern classic, with values rising to match. In recent years, a new breed of enthusiast has appeared, with many collectors now seeing the 850csi as a desirable acquisition – however, finding one of a good enough standard is a real challenge – only 160 of these fabulous cars were originally produced in right hand drive, and many fell into neglected condition during the bad old days, when the cost of maintenance didn’t align with values.
This particular 850csi is exceptional. Covering only 28,000 miles throughout its life, and having been cared for by just 3 owners in 30 years, the look and feel of this car is just as you’d hope. Connoisseurs of these cars will immediately feel the difference – the car feels planted on the road, solid, free of rattles and strange smells, and has excellent panel gaps, with all the trim just right and as you’d expect, corrosion free – it just presents and drives so very well. Our technical team have carried out their usual rigorous inspection and checks – we have currently five of these beauties with us at the current time, so we know our way round them pretty well – and are mighty impressed with what they’ve found. A few routine mechanical items to sort during prep, and this terrific machine is ready for the next chapter. If you’ve always wanted an 850csi, then you’re unlikely to find another this good.
For further information on this superb 850csi or to book a viewing (by appointment only please), contact our showroom team on 01825 740456 or by emailing sales@munichlegends.com
