1999 BMW 840Ci

Lot details
Registration No: T120SPK
Chassis No: WBAEF82050CC67276
Mot Expiry: Sept 2010

The Klaus Kapitza-designed 8 Series (chassis code E31) was launched at the Frankfurt motorshow in 1989. Though it effectively replaced the 6 Series, it was originally intended as an additional model line - an upmarket range with superior performance and price tag to match. During its 10-year reign, the 8 Series was offered in 830i, 840Ci and 850i/Ci form, of which the 840Ci was the second most popular variant. When introduced in mid 1993, it was fitted with a 4-litre V8 engine mated to either a 5-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. In 1995, however, the engine capacity was increased to 4.4-litres. The fully independent suspension featured struts at the front and coil springs on the rear. Steering was by ball and nut and braking by discs all round - vented at the front; solid at the rear. Over 1.5 billion Deutschmarks is said to have been spent on the car's design and development, which included the use of CAD tools (still quite rare at the time) and wind tunnel testing, the combined effect of which was a very competitive drag coefficient of 0.29. Though electronically limited to 155mph, this endowed the more powerful 8 Series models with a potential top speed of almost 190mph. Total sales of the range were some 30,600, the model's potential being somewhat limited by the recession of the time.

The 840Ci on offer is a right-hand drive 1999 example fitted with the 4.4-litre engine and 5-speed automatic gearbox. Its silver coachwork is complemented by a black leather interior. It was purchased by the vendor's company in 2002 and used by him ever since. Some areas of paintwork have been refreshed and the rear undertray replaced following minor damage. The front springs and dampers were recently renewed and the radiator replaced about a year ago. The vendor describes the coupe as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. These big BMWs offer a unique blend of style, performance and the marque's famed engineering quality. When you consider what they cost new, they are now great value for money.