2014 BMW i8

One could argue that the first reinvention of the 8-series moniker was a disservice to the original; I disagree. The E31 pioneered a new frontier for BMW, with electronics, a new design language and took BMW to a different market. There is no more fitting designation than the i8 in my mind. The slinky, futuristic coupe utilizes lightweight construction to keep the curb weight down; 3,200 lbs may not sound particularly lightweight, but keep in mind that the BRZ/FR-S twins were lauded for their light design and are only a few hundred pounds less without all of the heavy electric equipment and twin motors. Pushing the very aerodynamic lithe coupe are two motors that run together or separately – a 1.5 liter turbocharged inline-3 paired with a smaller version of the i3’s electric motor. The results of this combination are pretty astounding; a combined 357 horsepower results in 60 miles an hour in 3.8 seconds and a near effortless limited 155 m.p.h. top speed. Couple that with the ability to drive for around 20 miles with no assistance from the gasoline motor and return mid-40 mpgs, and the 911-like performance is truly impressive. No other car has yet come close to the combination of attributes the i8 offers.

When these cars rolled out now bordering on nine years ago, MSRP was thrown to the wind and dealer invoices rang in some $70,000 over sticker, with near $220,000 asking prices. While the i8 and i3 introduced BMW’s electric intentions, their more recent offerings like the i4 are decidedly more mainstream. For less than the price of an i4, though, you can have the original.

2014 BMW i8 on eBay:

This one is a Pure Impulse World trim level, which got you 20 x 7.5 front and 20 x 8.5 rear BMW i W Spoke Style 470 alloy wheels with 215/45R20 front and 245/40R20 rear tires; a leather engine cover; black brake calipers; an Anthracite headliner; BMW i Blue seatbelts; LED headlights with cornering lights; Pure Impulse Carum Spice Grey leather upholstery. The Crystal White Pearl Effect paintwork sets it off nicely.

My only real concern on one of these is battery replacement, which ranges between $10,000 and $15,000 depending on the source. I suppose, though, that’s in line with Porsche 911 repairs. These are much more rare than 911s to see and offer similar practicality. If you want to stand apart, it’s a neat way.

-Carter