Market Position:
Flagship Grand Tourer, representing BMW's pinnacle of luxury, performance, and engineering in the early to late 1990s.
Competitors:
Porsche 928, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Jaguar XJS, Aston Martin DB7.
Key Features:
V12 engine, coupe and convertible body styles, advanced technology for its era, luxurious interior, exceptional Grand Touring capabilities.
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining the complex systems of the BMW 850Ci, enabling owners to preserve its performance and luxury through accurate repair and maintenance.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, emissions control
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics) system, sensors, actuators, ignition system, fault diagnosis, wiring diagrams
Transmission Automatic:
ZF 4HP24/5HP30, diagnosis, adjustments, fluid service, overhaul procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, steering system, alignment
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), component replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, comfort features, detailed wiring diagrams
Climate Control:
HVAC system, diagnosis, refrigerant service, component replacement
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, convertible top operation (if applicable), corrosion prevention
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and specific faults across all systems
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually every component from engine to interior trim
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, performance specifications
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving faults
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, high-resolution electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete unit overhauls.
Engine Type:
V12, SOHC (per bank), 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
4988 cc (5.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
296 bhp @ 5200 rpm (DIN)
Torque:
470 Nm (347 lb-ft) @ 3900 rpm (DIN)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic DME 3.3 (or similar), multi-point fuel injection (MPI), two injectors per cylinder
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic
Transmission Type:
ZF 4-speed automatic (4HP24) for early models, ZF 5-speed automatic (5HP30) for later models.
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 265) was available on some models, but rare.
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, sport mode, adaptive shift programs.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Safety Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings (like NCAP) were consistently applied to vehicles of this era in the same way as today. However, BMW engineered the E31 with significant safety structures.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available on later models.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced safety cage, front airbags (driver and passenger), impact-absorbing zones, seatbelt pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
BMW Professional RDS radio with cassette player, optional CD changer. Features like self-leveling headlights and automatic climate control were advanced for the period.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, power-adjustable steering column, electric seat adjustment with memory.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily analogue systems and diagnostics. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Performance Technology:
Multi-link suspension for precise handling, sophisticated engine management systems for optimal power delivery and efficiency.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 3-4 years, though often recommended more frequently for longevity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 80,000 - 100,000 km (50,000 - 60,000 miles) depending on plug type and condition.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 12 Liters (3.2 US Gallons)
Common Issues:
Eccentric shaft sensor failure, ABS/ASC sensor issues, EML (Engine Management Light) illumination, cooling system leaks (water pump, hoses), starter motor solenoid issues, fuel pump failures, wear on suspension bushings, complex electrical system gremlins.
Recommended Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of cooling hoses, periodic replacement of fuel pumps and filters, attention to electrical connections, proper diagnosis of any warning lights.
Brand Heritage:
BMW's legacy of building sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering.
Model Evolution:
The 8 Series (E31) was BMW's flagship coupe, intended to be a technologically advanced and luxurious GT. It succeeded the E24 6 Series coupe and introduced features like a V12 engine, a multi-link rear suspension, and advanced electronics. The 850Ci was the primary model, with the 840Ci (4.0L V8) and M8 (prototype) also part of the E31 family.
Production Years:
1989-1999
Production Volume:
Approximately 30,600 units worldwide.
