8 Series, are they a money pit?

[sparks_E39]

Would a £5k 1999 8 Series (an 840 I think) with 100k and FSH be a money pit, or are they pretty good like the rest of the BMWs from that era? Not for me, for a friend who was thinking of one as an alternative to an M3 of the same age. Would he optimistic to expect 20ish mpg around town and 30 on a run? I can only really just beat that in an E39 528....and not by much.

[belleair302]

They can be very expensive so unless your friend really knows his E31's and is willing to get his hands dirty best to avoid.

A good car is wonderful but these are few and far between.

[Talkwrench]

They do need to be very carefully checked over. If its been properly maintained and its a good example, it'll be superb. But its definitely best to exercise caution. Expect a realistic 18-20mpg knocking about and 27-28 on a brisk run. I still maintain that with moderate upgrades (see past posts on 840's), they can be fantastic cars that are thoroughly rewarding to drive and are a real head turner.