Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer
Brand Image:
Exemplifies BMW's engineering prowess and focus on driver engagement within the luxury segment.
Direct Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Porsche 928, Jaguar XJS
Design:
Iconic wedge-shaped design, pop-up headlights, sleek coupe profile, extended wheelbase.
Powertrain:
BMW's renowned M70 V12 engine, delivering smooth, effortless power and a sophisticated driving experience.
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, advanced climate control, premium audio options, ergonomic seating.
Technology:
Early adoption of electronic systems, including traction control (ASC), adjustable suspension (EDC), and comprehensive onboard diagnostics.
Engine:
M70 V12 Engine (5.0L)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4HP24), 6-speed manual (S6-37B)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson struts, independent double wishbone; Rear: Independent multi-link
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Ventilated discs; ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Steering:
Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU diagnosis, sensors, lighting, accessories
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system operation and repair
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, structural components, corrosion protection
Interior:
Trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, sound insulation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, component replacement (pistons, rods, crankshaft, heads), timing adjustments, fuel injection system service
Transmission Repair:
Automatic transmission overhaul and repair, manual gearbox servicing, clutch replacement
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, ABS component testing
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), alignment procedures, power steering system repair
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, wiring harness repair, sensor testing, ECU diagnostics
Climate Control Diagnostics:
AC system servicing, blower motor replacement, sensor and actuator testing
Bodywork And Paint:
Panel alignment, dent repair, rust prevention and repair, paint code information
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and complex issues
Depth Level:
Expert/Professional Level
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, and fault finding logic
Repair Detail:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and overhaul procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, component-level electrical schematics with wire routing and connector identification
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed mechanical specifications, clearances, and wear limits for all major components
Engine Type:
60-degree V12, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
4988 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system
Horsepower:
300 hp (221 kW) @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
332 lb-ft (450 Nm) @ 4100 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M1.2 or M3.3 variants)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium - 91+ Octane)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific climate conditions)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter W1042/2, Mahle OX35D
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP24)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (Getrag S6-37B)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Sport/Economy modes (depending on ECU variant)
Manual Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, single dry plate
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent - consult manual for precise BMW spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, e.g., 75W-90)
Crash Test Results:
No specific government crash test ratings readily available for this era of luxury coupe; relies on advanced passive safety features for its time.
ABS:
Standard Bosch ABS III system
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) available on later models or as an option
Headlights:
Pop-up halogen headlights, offering excellent nighttime visibility and aerodynamic streamlining.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard from 1994 onwards, optional earlier.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones designed for energy absorption
Anti Theft:
Factory-installed immobilizer system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (BMW Condition Based Service - CBS).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), but inspect and replace as needed.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 40,000-60,000 miles (consult manual); Manual: Inspect periodically, change as needed.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent antifreeze
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or Pentosin CHF 11S (depending on system, consult manual)
Washer Fluid:
Standard automotive windshield washer fluid concentrate
Engine Management:
Potential issues with idle control valves, MAF sensors, and ignition coil packs, particularly on early models. The V12's complexity requires meticulous maintenance.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, faulty window regulators, headlamp motors, and climate control modules can be common.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump seal leaks are also possible.
Suspension Components:
Wear on control arm bushings, shock absorbers, and self-leveling rear suspension components (if equipped) can occur over time.
Transmission Performance:
While robust, older automatic transmissions may exhibit hesitant shifts or require service. Manual transmissions are generally more durable.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long history of producing driver-focused performance vehicles, with a particular emphasis on engine technology and handling.
Development:
Conceived as BMW's flagship coupe, designed to showcase advanced technology and luxurious grand touring capabilities. A radical departure from previous BMW styling.
Design Influence:
Penned by Ercole Spada, influenced by the BMW E25 Turbo concept car.
Production Years:
1989 - 1999
Production Volume:
Approximately 30,600 units worldwide, making it a relatively rare and collectible model.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Key Variants Produced:
840Ci (4.0L V8), 850i/850Ci (5.0L V12), 850CSi (5.6L V12 - Alpina tuned)