BMW 850CSi E31
The M8 that never was: a Motorsport-developed V12 grand tourer.
- Power
- 380 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.9 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $75k–$140k
About the BMW 850CSi E31
The 850CSi is the ultimate evolution of the E31 8 Series, developed by BMW's M Division as a surrogate for the cancelled M8 project. It features the S70B56 V12 engine, a high-performance unit that served as the basis for the McLaren F1's legendary powerplant. Unlike other 8 Series models, the CSi was offered exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox and featured a bespoke M-tuned chassis with active rear steering. Its understated looks, defined by M-Parallel wheels and quad exhausts, hide a true driver's car that remains one of BMW's most exclusive production models.
BMW 850CSi E31 specs
The BMW 850CSi E31 produces 380 bhp (283 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 850CSi |
| Generation | E31 |
| Trim | 5.6 V12 |
| Years | 1992–1996 |
| Type | Supercar |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 1,510 built |
| Original price | About $108,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.6-litre V12 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,576 cc (5.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 380 bhp (283 kW) at 5,300 rpm |
| Torque | 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.9 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,865 kg (4,112 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 204 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 850CSi E31 worth?
A typical BMW 850CSi E31 is estimated to be worth $75,000 – $140,000 (about £56,000 – £104,000).
Its original price when new was about $108,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 850CSi E31 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 850CSi E31 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 71 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 850CSi E31 fun facts
- The 850CSi's VIN starts with 'WBS' (BMW Motorsport) rather than the standard 'WBA' (BMW AG), identifying it as a genuine M-car.
- Its S70 engine was the first production V12 to be paired with a six-speed manual transmission in a road car.
- Production ended in 1996 because the S70 engine could not be economically modified to meet stricter new emission regulations.
