🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

850Ci

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

E31

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 8 Series (E31) represented BMW's pinnacle of luxury grand touring in the early to mid-1990s, directly competing with high-end coupes from Mercedes-Benz (S-Class Coupe) and other luxury marques. The 850Ci, with its V12 engine, was positioned as the flagship model, emphasizing refined performance and advanced technology.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz SEC models, Aston Martin DB7 (later in its run), and top-tier Jaguar coupes. Its unique selling proposition was the smooth, powerful V12 engine and sophisticated German engineering, often with a focus on comfort and stability over outright sportiness compared to some rivals.

Key Features:

Aerodynamic styling, standard V12 engine, advanced electronic systems for its era, luxurious interior appointments, pillarless coupe design, emphasis on long-distance cruising comfort.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures.

Page Count:

Extensive (Digital format implies comprehensive coverage equivalent to a substantial printed volume).

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Software/Downloadable File).

Compatibility:

Designed for the 1994 BMW 850Ci. May contain information applicable to other E31 models of similar vintage (e.g., 840Ci, early 850i) with noted differences.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

V12 Engine (M70B50), Automatic Transmission (4HP24), ABS, ASC+T (Traction Control), Self-Leveling Suspension (optional), Power Steering, Climate Control, Lighting, Audio System, SRS Airbag System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body Electronics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements), Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Service and Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Troubleshooting and Component Testing, HVAC System Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Alignment and Repair, Diagnostic Scan Tool Procedures, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Special Tool Usage, Reassembly and Torque Specifications.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete mechanical and electrical system overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Electrical System Detail:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all systems, component location charts, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, power distribution schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF or proprietary software format; optimized for quick digital access and searchability.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, print quality depends on user's printer).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format).

File Quality:

Typically high-resolution digital files allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

BMW M70B50

Engine Configuration:

60-degree V12

Engine Displacement:

4.988 Liters (4988 cc)

Engine Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per cylinder bank, 2 valves per cylinder (total 24 valves).

Performance Horsepower:

296 hp @ 5,200 rpm (SAE Net)

Performance Torque:

332 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm (SAE Net)

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 3.3/3.3.1 ECU), Distributorless Ignition System (DIS).

Engine Management System:

Bosch Motronic 3.3/3.3.1

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with dual thermostats and dual radiators.

Exhaust System:

Dual exhaust system with catalytic converters.

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with two ignition coils firing pairs of cylinders simultaneously.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP24).

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual (Getrag 420G - rare, primarily for 850i/CSi models).

Features:

Adaptive transmission control, torque converter lock-up, electronically controlled shift points.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 Liters (check manual for exact capacity during service).

Gear Ratios:

1st: 3.229, 2nd: 1.777, 3rd: 1.220, 4th: 0.858, Reverse: 2.700, Final Drive: 3.154 (check manual for precise ratios as they could vary slightly).

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

191.1 inches (4,855 mm)

Exterior Width:

71.7 inches (1,820 mm)

Exterior Height:

51.3 inches (1,303 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.4 inches (2,700 mm)

Wheelbase Mm:

2,700 mm

Front Track:

61.0 inches (1,550 mm)

Rear Track:

60.6 inches (1,540 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,150 - 4,300 lbs (1,882 - 1,950 kg)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 14.4 cubic feet (408 Liters)

Front Tire Size:

235/50 ZR16

Rear Tire Size:

235/50 ZR16 (Standard, wider options available).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET 22 (Front and Rear, standard).

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

NHTSA ratings for this era were less standardized than today; focus was on structural integrity and passive safety features.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T), Power-assisted steering, Traction control.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS), Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, Crumple zones, Side-impact protection.

Brake System Front:

Ventilated Discs, 324 mm diameter.

Brake System Rear:

Ventilated Discs, 300 mm diameter.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Original factory radio with cassette player and AM/FM tuner. Optional CD changer. Basic onboard computer providing fuel economy, range, and check control messages.

Driver Assistance:

ABS, ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction), Parking distance control (optional on some models).

Connectivity:

Limited by era; no integrated Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Factory-installed car phone was an option.

Lighting:

Pop-up (hidden) headlights, front fog lamps, rear fog lamps, automatic headlight leveling.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Service Intervals Filters:

Oil filter: With every oil change. Air filters: Approx. 15,000-30,000 miles. Fuel filters: Approx. 30,000 miles.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (or equivalent meeting BMW Longlife-98 specification).

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 equivalent), a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.

Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11S equivalent).

Fluid Capacities Engine Oil:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (with filter change).

Known Issues:

EML (Electronic Motor Control) issues, fuel pump failure, coolant leaks (especially heater control valves and hoses), ABS/ASC sensor failures, window regulator failures, door seal degradation, aging wiring harnesses, VANOS seals (on later M73 engines, not M70), starter motor failure on V12 models.

Known Issues Engine V12:

Two ECUs and associated wiring complexity can lead to diagnostic challenges. Ignition coil failures are common. Early versions of the M70 can suffer from oil leaks due to crankcase seals.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused luxury vehicles, known for their engineering prowess and sporty driving dynamics, even in their grand touring cars. The V12 engine heritage dates back to the M70 in the E32 7 Series.

Model Evolution:

The E31 8 Series was produced from 1989 to 1999. It was a significant departure from the previous E24 6 Series, representing a more modern and technologically advanced GT car. The 850Ci was the initial V12 offering, later joined by the more powerful 850CSi (with 380 hp and a manual transmission option) and the V8-powered 840Ci.

Production Years:

1990-1994 for the 850Ci (globally). Production for the E31 chassis concluded in 1999.

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the '1994 BMW 850Ci' are scarce, the E31 8 Series as a platform was generally recognized for its design and engineering. It was featured in automotive magazines as a technological showcase and a benchmark in GT design for its time.