Positioning:
The BMW 850i (E31) was positioned as a luxurious and technologically advanced grand tourer, representing BMW's flagship coupe of the era.
Competitors:
Competed against other high-end GT cars such as the Mercedes-Benz SEC models, Porsche 928, and Aston Martin Virage.
Design:
Striking, aerodynamically efficient 'flame surfacing' design, pop-up headlights, and a low-slung silhouette.
Powertrain:
Powered by BMW's M70 5.0-liter V12 engine, a marvel of engineering for its time.
Technology:
Incorporated advanced features for the period, including electronic throttle control, self-leveling suspension (optional), and a sophisticated CAN bus system for diagnostics.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of all electrical circuits
Engine Management:
Wiring for Motronic engine management system (ME V1.1)
Ignition System:
Wiring diagrams for ignition control and components
Fuel System:
Electrical schematics for fuel pump, injectors, and sensors
Transmission Control:
Wiring for automatic transmission control unit (e.g., 4HP24)
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights
Instrument Cluster:
Wiring for all gauges, warning lights, and indicators
Climate Control:
Wiring for HVAC blower, A/C compressor, sensors, and controls
Audio System:
Wiring for factory radio, amplifier, and speakers
Power Accessories:
Power windows, door locks, mirrors, sunroof, seats
Safety Systems:
Wiring for ABS, traction control (ASC+T on some models), airbags (if applicable for '91)
Cruise Control:
Wiring for cruise control system components
Anti Theft System:
Wiring for factory alarm system
Diagnostic Ports:
Location and wiring for diagnostic connectors (e.g., OBD-I)
Troubleshooting:
Facilitates electrical troubleshooting by tracing circuits
Component Replacement:
Guides on locating and connecting electrical components
Wiring Repair:
Aids in repairing damaged wiring harnesses and connections
Depth:
Detailed schematic representation of every circuit, connector, wire gauge, and component
Component Identification:
Clear labeling of all electrical components and their functions
Connector Diagrams:
Illustrations and pin-outs for various electrical connectors
Fuse Relay Locations:
Identification of fuse boxes, relay locations, and circuit protection
Configuration:
60-degree V12
Displacement:
4988 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower:
295 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
332 lb-ft (450 Nm) @ 4100 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.2 (later M1.3) fuel injection with two injectors per cylinder
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Motronic M1.2 / M1.3, featuring electronic throttle control (ETC)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 13.5 Liters (may vary slightly)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP24)
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual (S6S-310Z) - available in limited markets
Automatic Features:
Sport and Economy modes (on some versions), electronic control
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific BMW recommendation)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (dry fill)
Crash Test Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings (NHTSA/IIHS) available for this era of European vehicles.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or ASC+T (Traction Control) optional/standard depending on market and build date.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/later availability.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory BMW E32/E34 derived radio system, often with optional amplifier and CD changer preparation. Sound quality can be dated.
Display:
Basic LCD display for radio and climate control information.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system.
Automatic Headlights:
Pop-up headlight system controlled manually or by light sensor on some later models.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to basic cellular phone preparation kits in some markets. No modern connectivity features.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics first generation) with specific BMW proprietary connectors for diagnostic tools.
Diagnostic System:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic system, accessible via specific ports, requiring specialized tools for comprehensive fault code reading and analysis.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (consult owner's manual or service history).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, though often considered 'lifetime' by older BMW standards, manual inspection recommended.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-50 or 10W-40 (synthetic recommended, consult owner's manual for exact BMW LL-xx specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (with filter)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended for ABS systems)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump seals and thermostat housing can leak.
Electrical System:
Wire harness degradation, particularly in the engine bay (wire coating brittle). ABS wheel speed sensor failures. Door handle microswitches and central locking issues.
Engine M70:
Idles sensors (ISCV) can fail. VANOS seals (if applicable to early models) can degrade. Coil pack failures. Spark plug access is difficult (12 plugs).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission torque converter lock-up issues. Clutch wear on manual versions.
Suspension:
Hydraulic self-leveling suspension (if equipped) can develop leaks or pump issues. Ball joints and tie rod ends wear.
Bodywork:
Corrosion can affect wheel arches, sills, and subframes. Headliner sagging. Pop-up headlight mechanism motors can fail.
Parts Status:
Many specialized parts can be scarce and expensive, requiring dedicated sourcing.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering and performance.
E31 Introduction:
The E31 8 Series was introduced in 1989 as a successor to the E24 6 Series, aiming to compete in the luxury grand tourer segment.
E31 Development:
Developed over a period of seven years, featuring advanced aerodynamics and engineering, including the first V12 engine in a BMW production car.
E31 Engine Options:
Initially launched with the 5.0L V12 (850i), later joined by a 4.0L V8 (840i) and an uprated 5.6L V12 (850CSi).
Production Years:
1989-1999
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Total Production E31:
Approximately 30,600 units across all variants.
1991 Production:
Significant production year for the initial V12 models.
Automotive Design:
Frequently cited for its groundbreaking and timeless aerodynamic design, influencing automotive styling for years to come.
Engineering Excellence:
The V12 engine was celebrated for its smoothness, power delivery, and technological sophistication, earning it accolades in the automotive press.