Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SEC Coupe, Porsche 928, Jaguar XJ-S
Defining Features:
V12 engine, sleek aerodynamic design, advanced technology for its era, luxurious interior, exceptional driving dynamics.
Primary Use:
To provide detailed technical information for the maintenance, repair, and diagnosis of the BMW 850i (E31) models from 1989 to 1994.
User Base:
BMW Dealership Technicians, Independent Repair Shops, Experienced Automotive Enthusiasts.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several thousand pages (typical for comprehensive BMW service manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Language:
English (implied by typical sales context, but potentially multiple languages exist for original manuals)
Powertrain:
Engine (M70 V12), Transmission (Automatic - 4-speed GM 4L30-E, later 5-speed ZF 5HP30), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ASC), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management (DME, EDC), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC, Power Accessories, Audio System, SRS (Airbag)
Bodywork:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top (if applicable to specific sub-models), Interior Trim, Glass
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Electrical Fault Finding
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) procedures, Scan Tool Usage, Sensor Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers disassembly, reassembly, specifications, and torque values for most components.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, allowing for quick access to specific topics via keywords.
Resolution:
Dependent on original scan quality; typically optimized for clarity of diagrams and text.
Scalability:
Scalable for printing or viewing on various screen sizes.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Configuration:
V12 (12-cylinder, V-configuration)
Displacement:
5.0 Liters (4988 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder (24 valves total)
Horsepower Us Spec:
296 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Us Spec:
332 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Horsepower Euro Spec:
300 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Euro Spec:
332 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (8 US Quarts)
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic recommended
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (GM 4L30-E) initially, later 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP30)
Drive Wheels:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Manual Transmission Availability:
Not officially offered for the 850i in most markets, though rare aftermarket conversions may exist.
Transmission Modes:
Sport/Economy (S/E) mode selector
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (for GM 4L30-E) or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (for ZF 5HP30) - consult specific vehicle documentation.
Length:
Approx. 4,795 mm (188.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,855 mm (73.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,340 mm (52.8 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,678 mm (105.4 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1,550 mm (61.0 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1,576 mm (62.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,700 - 1,850 kg (3,750 - 4,080 lbs) depending on options and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Consult vehicle placard
Crash Test Ratings:
No standardized global ratings (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) were prevalent or widely published for this era of luxury vehicles in the same way as today.
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Asc:
Optional/Later Standard (Automatic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from inception; passenger airbag became available/standard later in the production run.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Head Unit:
BMW Professional RDS or similar era-appropriate radio/cassette system, often with optional CD changer.
Display:
Digital trip computer, climate control display, and basic infotainment readouts integrated into the dashboard.
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available or standard on later models.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to original features; no modern smartphone integration or Bluetooth as standard.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control.
Seat Features:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for exact intervals.
Transmission Service Interval:
Fluid and filter change every 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km), depending on driving conditions. Inspect for leaks.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Long-life platinum or iridium plugs; typically 60,000-100,000 miles. M70 uses 12 spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SP, ACEA A3/B4, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Full Synthetic Recommended
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent
Common Problems Overview:
Complex electronics, aging wiring harnesses, fuel system components (e.g., fuel pump relays, injectors), cooling system (especially radiator and hoses), suspension bushings, and potential for VANOS seal degradation on later models (though M70 doesn't have VANOS).
Electrical Gremlins:
Common due to complex wiring and age; intermittent faults in various systems (ABS, climate control, power windows) are not uncommon.
M70 Specific Issues:
The dual ignition system (one spark plug per cylinder for combustion, one for emissions/smoother running) requires meticulous maintenance. Coil pack issues can arise.
Coolant Issues:
Original plastic components in the cooling system can become brittle and prone to failure.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', focusing on performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement.
Conception:
Developed as BMW's flagship coupe, designed to compete at the highest level of luxury and performance GTs.
Design Inspiration:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling by Boyke Boyer, with inspiration drawn from the BMW Z1 and concept cars.
Technical Advancements:
Introduction of the M70 V12 engine, drive-by-wire throttle, advanced electronics and chassis control for its time.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Production Numbers:
Total E31 production was around 30,600 units worldwide. The 850i (M70 engine) was a significant portion of this.
Automotive Journalism Mentions:
Frequently lauded by automotive press of its era for its V12 engine, luxury, and styling. Often cited as a technical tour-de-force.
Collectible Status:
Considered a modern classic and a desirable collectible, particularly for enthusiasts of BMW's V12 engines and flagship models.
