1992 BMW (E31) 850i - MANUAL

This 1992 BMW 850i is a superb example of the breed, which has been meticulously maintained and presents in excellent condition throughout, with some Alpina cosmetic modifications. Under the bonnet sits a 5.0-litre V12 engine producing 296bhp and 332lb-ft of torque, coupled with the rare and sought-after factory fitted six-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 104,526 miles from new.

First registered in April 1992, this 850i is believed to be one of only 102 manual right-hand drive examples produced. It also boasts the rare colour combination of Brilliant Red and Parchment Nappa leather. This 8 Series has been in the possession of its current keeper for one year and comes with a number of factory optional extras, including headlight washer jets, electronic damper control (EDC), an electrically adjustable steering column, an electric sunroof, electric memory seats and a HiFi system.

The bodywork of this 8 Series presents in good order, with no evidence of any prior damage. The condition of the Brilliant Red paintwork is described as excellent, and the vendor notes the whole of the car’s body, minus the roof and boot lid, has undergone a respray during his ownership. This was carried out to a high standard and the car now presents with a smart shine all over. The body trims remain in good order, as does the aftermarket Alpina-style front lip. The car rides on a set of genuine 17-inch Alpina ‘Hardline’ alloy wheels with the sought-after 10J rears, which remain immaculate on all four corners, with colourful centre caps and no evidence of any kerb damage.

Moving inside, the seats are finished with luxurious Parchment Nappa leather, and while the driver’s seat presents with some age-related discolouration, the upholstery remains in good overall condition. The black instrument panels present well, with no visible scuffs to any of the controls or switches, while the three-spoke steering wheel and manual gear knob appear with minimal wear. The vendor reports all of the car’s electrics work as they should, and an aftermarket Kenwood stereo has been installed.

The last service was undertaken in October 2019 at 103,948 miles, where technicians at Tej’s Specialist Cars in Birmingham changed the engine oil and filter. Prior to this, in April 2015 at 102,198 miles and in March 2014 at 100,826 miles, Middleton Garage in Saxmundham carried out routine maintenance.

The most recent MOT test was on 5 November 2020 at 104,517 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories. The wheels are wrapped with Falken Azenis tyres in fitment 245/45/R17 at the front and 275/40/R17 at the rear, which the vendor notes are all nearly new.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original toolkit and BMW 850i book pack including the original service book, complete with 27 service stamps.

This BMW 850i is a very smart example of a powerful and refined grand tourer, which is believed to be one of only 104 cars produced in this elegant Brilliant Red and Parchment Nappa leather colour scheme. With a 5.0-litre V12 and an involving manual gearbox, this desirably specified BMW would make a terrific addition to any collection of modern classics, and a fine companion for continental road trips.

Summary of service history:

• 09/10/2019 - 103,948 - Tej’s Specialist Cars
• 20/04/2015 - 102,198 - Middleton Garage
• 07/03/2014 - 100,826 - Middleton Garage
• 13/03/2013 - 100,012 - Middleton Garage
• 22/03/2012 - 98,882 - Middleton Garage
• 14/03/2011 - 96,401 - Middleton Garage
• 16/03/2010 - 95,072 - Middleton Garage
• 19/03/2009 - 93,807 - Middleton Garage
• 29/03/2008 - 91,673 - Nick Rouse Specialist
• 17/06/2006 - 88,315 - Nick Rouse Specialist
• 18/03/2005 - 85,129 - Nick Rouse Specialist
• 21/03/2003 - 80,939 - Nick Rouse Specialist
• 06/12/2001 - 79,655 - Nick Rouse Specialist
• 15/03/2000 - 74,106 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 25/08/1999 - 71,614 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 30/06/1998 - 66,419 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 17/10/1997 - 60,636 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 04/03/1997 - 53,997 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 17/10/1996 - 48,382 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 12/03/1996 - 42,596 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 19/10/1995 - 36,295 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 13/03/1995 - 30,604 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 08/11/1994 - 24,225 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 31/01/1994 - 18,034 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 18/08/1993 - 12,781 - T. A. & D. E. Reeve
• 30/11/1992 - 7,065 - BMW Hunters
• 10/06/1992 - 1661 - BMW Hunters

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.