BMW 840 Ci

Very few 840's still have the old Nikasil engine.

Most were replaced under guarantee with Alusil, and hence will have lower milages than that recorded on the mileometer,.

So it's worth checking with BMW uk, Reading, they have records of all chassis numbers that had replacement engines, you could well be getting a bargain.

Additionally, pre july 1995 840's are less complex than later models which have electronic suspension (2k per leg for replacement, and some with AHK (4 wheel steering), and possibly also an electronic steering column, all expensive complications when they go wrong, and they will trust me....

So don't believe the bull from sellers regarding post 95 cars being a better buy , they definately are NOT.

I've had a pre 95 ci for 12 years with 180.000 miles on the clock, and annual repair and maintenance costs have been no more than 700 quid on average.

All spares are readily available apart from some smaller hose items, and no need to buy from BMW, there are plenty of reliable OEM parts.

Having owned my 840 for two years now I can honestly say I love it. It's not the cheapest car to own and run, it has a 4.4 litre V8, but when u slide in to the driver seat and turn the key you know it's worth every pound you spent. The V8 is not the loudest you will hear but it has the signature rumbling sound and is just amazing o liste to. Have found myself walking around it with the engine running just admiring it and listening to the sound the engine makes.

As stated above the servicing and other normal expenses such as tyres and insurance will cost you a few thousand a year but it's such a joy to drive and the looks you get are fantastic.

GREAT FOR THE MONEY OUTHER PEOPLE LOVE IT

The was BMW 840Ci was their flagship vehicle throughout the 90s and they are rare in comparison to just about every other model BMW have produced in modern times.

Prices at new could have been in the region of £80,000 and very good secondhand examples can be had for £10,000. Entry level prices start at £5,000 but expect early Nikasil engined, non sport vehicles which command a less captive audience. Genuine BMW 840ci Sports featuring BMW's Steptronic gearbox came into production during 1996 and appear on a 'P' registration and expect to pay in the region of £7,000 for an average mileage/condition example with service history.

Full BMW main dealer service history is not necessarily crucial. From experience BMW seem to have little knowledge of the E31 8 series and main dealers will tend to take the easy option when faced with any issues and opt to 'replace' as opposed to 'repair'. There are many knowledgeable independent garages specialising in the 8 series and you will find that many are ex-BMW technicians who are well experienced with older BMW models.

The 840ci shares quite a few parts with the E38 7 series and as a result parts are not always as expensive as you may think.

The later M62 4.4 liter V8 models benefit from steel lined bores as opposed to the earlier Nikasil lined 4.0 liter units which were prone to premature failure.

Considering that good examples can be purchased for 10% of its original price these cars can prove to be an incredibly shrewed purchase. Depreciation free and classic status makes the 8 series a very collectable car for the near future. A must for the discerning car enthusiast!