The E31 was BMW’s first real attempt at integrating lots of computer designs and controls into one of their road cars. The clean-sheet design resulted in a 2-door grand tourer that shared some visual similarities with the great M1, but stood apart as a more practical cruiser. Unlike the E24, the windows could fully drop, revealing a graceful pillarless design to match the sweeping greenhouse. The sharp nose amazingly hid an even larger motor than its predecessor; in fact, it was basically two conjoined M30s. That configuration certainly has some drawbacks, but there was no denying that the 850i had serious presence and credentials with the M70 V12 kicking out 300 horsepower.
However, BMW softened the character of what potentially could have been a screamer. Many were outfit with 16″ wheels for a better ride and tied to an automatic transmission. This was truly a GT car, and not the supercar slayer that BMW teased with its M8 Concept. Still, there are a few which were hooked to 6-speed manual transmissions prior to the launch of the manual-only 850CSi, and they’re a whole lot cheaper than the M-modded model is trading for today:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1991 BMW 850i on eBay
Year: 1991
Model: 850i
VIN: WBAEG1317MCB42488
Engine: 5.0 liter V12
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 120,305 mi
Price: $20,995 Buy It Now
Beautiful 1991 BMW 850i 6spd Manual Transmission Rust Free California car paint has high gloss shine and interior is in stunning condition This gorgeous 850i coupe is finished in Lagunen Green Metallic over Parchment leather and powered by a 5.0-liter V12 mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The car is reportedly one of 528 examples equipped with a manual transmission of the 2,647 built during the first year of US Production if you have been looking for a well kept 850i look no further this vehicle was previously owned by a Bmw Enthusiasts and was well cared for and was garaged when not being driven please fell free to call or email us with any questions we would be happy to send additional photos upon request and would be happy to help arrange worldwide shipping.
We welcome a “Pre-Purchase” inspection prior to the end of the auction and are available to answer questions either by e-mail or phone.
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BMW launched this top-tier model right in the midst of a global recession, as the supercar-friendly 80s quickly came to an end. As a result, a scant 4,194 M70-equipped 850i models were imported, and that was the most popular seller here of all the E31s by a wide margin. Of those, only 847 had manuals. Laguna Green Metallic (266) was a fairly popular color over the first few years, with 1,325 produced in that tone worldwide. But when you combine it with the other two stats, you see how hard finding this car is today, some 28 years later. Like many, this one wears the 16″ x 7.5″ Style 9s, which while not impressive compared to later rims are at least correct.
Keeping one running today can certainly be more expensive than the M30s of yore. But there are great resources out there, thanks to sites such as 8Coupe.com which tracks these cars and offers lots of tips. This example looks nice throughout, and while it’s certainly not a low-mileage car, the condition seems to be far above average. A few years ago these cars could be had for much less money, but appreciation is rapidly pushing their pricing upwards – especially as the 850CSi gets top dollar. I would think this is a car that you could buy and enjoy driving sparingly, while potentially looking at making a profit in the future. If the market takes a downturn, the absolute worst case is that you’ve got a beautiful manual V12 GT car. Life could be a lot worse.
-Carter
