Positioning:
The 1997 BMW 840Ci was positioned as a luxurious grand tourer, offering sophisticated styling, powerful V8 performance, and advanced technology for its era. It was a niche vehicle, appealing to enthusiasts who valued performance and exclusivity.
Competitors:
Competed with other high-end coupes like the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Porsche 928, and Jaguar XJS, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and luxury.
Dvl Engine:
The V8 engine provided smooth, potent power delivery, distinguishing it from the V12 850Ci variant.
Design Elegance:
Renowned for its timeless, aerodynamic design, featuring pop-up headlights and a distinctive shark-nose front end.
Driver Focus:
Despite its luxury, it maintained BMW's signature driver-centric ergonomics and handling characteristics.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, exhaust, transmission (automatic).
Chassis:
Steering, suspension (front and rear), brakes (ABS, DSC components), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Engine management, body control modules (BCM), lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, mirrors, seats), audio system, navigation (if applicable), diagnostics (OBD-II).
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, HVAC system, convertible top (if applicable), doors, hood, trunk.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical schematic interpretation.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation.
Depth:
Extremely detailed, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and repair.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.4 liters (4398 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92 mm x 82.7 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
282 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque:
317 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 engine management system, multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission
Optional Transmission:
None for 840Ci in 1997 (Manual transmission was available on the 840i, a different model designation).
Transmission Features:
Steptronic allows manual selection of gears, offering a more engaging driving experience.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III-H specification)
Length:
191.1 inches (4854 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
52.8 inches (1341 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.0 inches (2692 mm)
Front Track:
61.6 inches (1565 mm)
Rear Track:
61.3 inches (1557 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,990 lbs (1810 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 5,070 lbs (2300 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 14.7 cu ft (416 liters)
Standard Wheel Size:
17 x 7.5 inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
235/45R17
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
NHTSA Ratings:
Not readily available for this specific model year from public databases, but BMW generally prioritized safety.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Premium Hi-Fi system, often with cassette and CD player. Optional professional sound systems were available.
Navigation:
Optional BMW E38/E32/E31 navigation system available, typically monochrome CRT screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Telematics:
Limited by modern standards; basic on-board computer functions.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Seats:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory, often heated.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) or every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific indicators.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for iridium spark plugs; consult manual for exact interval and type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by vehicle sensors.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze / Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based)
E31 Common Issues:
Cooling system component failure (radiator, hoses, water pump), VANOS solenoid failure, ABS/ASC sensor issues, window regulator failures, door handle microswitches, general age-related wear and tear on rubber components and electronics.
M62 Engine Issues:
Valley pan gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner wear (especially early M60/M62 variants), oil consumption in some cases.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
E31 Introduction:
The E31 8 Series was introduced in 1989 as a flagship coupe, aiming to redefine the luxury GT segment with advanced technology and styling. The 840Ci variant, featuring the V8 engine, was introduced later in the E31's lifecycle to offer a more accessible yet potent alternative to the V12 850Ci.
E31 Production Years:
1989-1999
840Ci Introduction Year:
1993
Production Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Total 840Ci Production:
Approximately 10,722 units worldwide (across all years).
Car And Driver Awards:
Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best list in its early years, recognized for its engineering and performance.
Performance Ratings:
Praised for its smooth V8 power, balanced handling, and comfortable ride, earning it a reputation as an excellent grand tourer.
