1994 BMW

The 850 CSI is still considered by many as the last true Bahn storming, low volume, BMW M built GT Car. Only 160 of these very special and highly expensive cars were built over a 3-year period in right hand drive. It is as close as we got to the M8 with BMW having canned the M8 after the production of just one prototype. It was a change of direction for BMW M that led to the decision that the M badge no longer lived on a big GT car.

The 850 CSI was largely BMW M inspired with a massive input from their engineers in suspension, steering, brakes, engine and aerodynamics. Whether the 850 CSI is the best high-speed cross continent crushing GT to ever leave BMW M, continues to be debated even now, 30+ years later . A very clever blend of high performance and handling with luxury still rarely seen today. M inspired and very low volume has to make this a true must for the most serious of car collectors.

All 850 CSI were 6 speed manual and fitted with limited slip differential as standard. BMW M made numerous upgrades to the M70 engine which was increased to 5.6 litres. These mods with improved inlet and exhaust took the power to an impressive 380 bhp and 550 Nm of torque.

Front springs, rear springs and shocks were uprated by M and BMW’s four-wheel steer system became standard on the CSI. The front brakes were larger than the standard 850 and had been upgraded to Brembo calipers.

The interior on the standard car was already an extraordinarily high specification but the CSI saw red needles added to the instruments along with a striped M Badge gear knob, door sill plates and engine cover. Externally the CSI benefited from revised M front and rear spoilers, sill skirts, aerodynamic mirrors, and a fantastic looking exhaust system.

Our Thoughts:

The 8 Series seems to be undergoing a cultural revolution in recent years, as the Knight Rider generation have finally reached the age where they can begin to afford a bit of pop-up headlight nostalgia - without the quippy remarks from the dashboard.

This particular example, presented in Orient Blue Metallic has previously undergone underside preventative maintenance and is well known to Hero Motor Company, having been in our care since 2023. During this time the CSI has undergone regular maintenance to the tune of circa £10,000, ensuring the CSI maintains its mechanical integrity and composure at all times.

Recent mechanical repairs in our workshop include a full engine removal, removal of the front timing covers and cylinder heads, thoroughly cleaning all components. Carry out reassembly of the engine with new head gaskets, timing chain cover gaskets, oil seals, rear main oil seals and all other related gaskets. The engine was then refitted and filter and oil replaced with selected Castrol Edge.

Before the new owner takes delivery of this outstanding 850 CSI, it will pass through our workshop a final time for final checks and levels before being fully detailed and valeted.

With the CSI comes a comprehensive history folder, fully stamped service book from new and original booklets.

Full Specification: