The BMW 8 Series is a luxury grand touring car designed for high-speed comfort, strong performance, and premium design. BMW introduced the first-generation E31 in 1989 with V8 and V12 engine options. The company later revived the name in 2018 with the G15 Coupe, G14 Convertible, and G16 Gran Coupe. Each generation reflects BMW’s approach to combining long-distance driving comfort with sports car performance.

The BMW 8 Series has changed significantly over the years. The original E31 featured pop-up headlights, a low body, and advanced technology for its time. The modern generation offers turbocharged engines, digital displays, and advanced driver assistance systems. BMW also introduced the M8, which delivers much higher performance than the standard models. These differences make the 8 Series an interesting choice for luxury car enthusiasts.

This guide explores the BMW 8 Series generations, from the original E31 to the modern G14, G15, and G16 models. It covers their production years, engine options, performance, design changes, and key features. You will also learn how the generations differ and what makes each version distinctive.

2026 BMW 8 Series

The 2026 BMW 8 Series continues the G14, G15, and G16 model family, covering the Convertible, Coupe, and Gran Coupe body styles. It focuses on luxury, strong engine performance, and comfortable long-distance driving. Depending on the market, buyers can find six-cylinder and V8 petrol engine options. The design features a wide kidney grille, slim LED headlights, and a low, sporty profile.

The 840i uses BMW’s 3.0-liter B58 turbocharged inline-six engine. In recent U.S.-spec versions, it produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M850i xDrive uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that delivers around 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. BMW pairs these engines with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The M850i also comes with xDrive all-wheel drive for improved traction.

Inside, the 2026 BMW 8 Series offers leather upholstery, supportive seats, and premium cabin materials. Its technology includes a digital instrument display, a central infotainment screen, and smartphone connectivity. Available driver assistance features can help with highway driving and parking. Buyers should check their local BMW specifications because equipment and engine availability can vary by market.

BMW 8 Series E31 (Coupe)

BMW introduced the 8 Series E31 Coupe in 1989. It was the first generation of the BMW 8 Series and replaced the original 6 Series Coupe in BMW’s luxury grand touring lineup. The E31 featured a low body, pop-up headlights, and a frameless side-window design. BMW built it with a focus on high-speed comfort and advanced engineering. Production continued until 1999, making the E31 an important model in BMW’s history.

The E31 offered several powerful engine options. The 850i launched with a 5.0-liter M70 V12 engine that produced 296 horsepower. In 1994, BMW introduced the 850CSi with a modified 5.6-liter S70 V12 engine producing 375 horsepower. The 840Ci used a 4.0-liter M60 V8, later replaced by a 4.4-liter M62 V8 in many markets. Buyers could choose manual or automatic transmissions, depending on the model and engine. These options gave the E31 a distinct character across its range.

BMW also equipped the E31 with advanced features for its time. It used a multi-link rear suspension to support stability and handling. Its cabin offered leather seats, automatic climate control, and an optional integrated telephone. The car also featured electronic throttle control on selected versions. Today, the E31 attracts collectors because of its V12 engines, distinctive styling, and limited production numbers compared with more common BMW models. However, buyers should inspect the cooling system, electrical components, and engine condition before purchasing one.

BMW 8 Series G14 (Convertible)

BMW introduced the 8 Series G14 Convertible in 2018 as part of the second-generation 8 Series family. It features a fabric soft top that opens in about 15 seconds, even while driving at speeds of up to 31 mph (50 km/h). The roof gives the car an open-air driving experience without changing its grand touring character. BMW designed the G14 for drivers who want luxury, strong performance, and the freedom to enjoy the outdoors.

The G14 came with different engine options, depending on the market and model year. The 840i uses a 3.0-liter B58 turbocharged inline-six petrol engine. The M850i xDrive features a 4.4-liter N63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine. BMW also offered the 840d with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine in selected markets. Most versions use an eight-speed automatic transmission, while xDrive models provide all-wheel drive. These options allow buyers to choose between balanced performance, V8 power, and diesel efficiency.

The BMW 8 Series G14 combines a driver-focused cabin with modern comfort features. It offers leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a digital instrument display. A wind deflector helps reduce air turbulence when the roof is down. The car also includes a reinforced body structure to support stiffness without a fixed roof. Buyers considering a used G14 should check the soft-top mechanism, roof seals, battery condition, and electronic systems. These checks can help prevent expensive repairs and protect the convertible’s long-term value.

BMW 8 Series G15 (Coupe)

BMW introduced the 8 Series G15 Coupe in 2018, bringing the 8 Series name back after a long break. It features a two-door body, a long bonnet, and a low roofline. BMW designed it for drivers who want sports car performance with grand touring comfort. The G15 shares its platform with the G14 Convertible and G16 Gran Coupe. However, its fixed roof gives it a different body structure and a classic coupe profile.

The G15 offers several engine options, depending on the model year and market. The 840i uses a 3.0-liter B58 turbocharged inline-six petrol engine. In U.S.-spec versions, it produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M850i xDrive uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque in its original specification. BMW pairs these engines with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The M850i also features xDrive all-wheel drive, which helps deliver power to the road in different driving conditions.

Inside, the BMW 8 Series G15 combines premium materials with modern technology. It offers supportive front seats, a digital instrument cluster, and a central infotainment display. Depending on the year and specification, features include a head-up display, Harman Kardon audio, and advanced parking assistance. The coupe also provides a useful rear seat for shorter trips, although legroom is limited for adults. Used-car buyers should check the service history, transmission operation, cooling system, and electronic features before purchasing a G15.

BMW 8 Series G16 (Gran Coupe)

BMW introduced the 8 Series G16 Gran Coupe in 2019 as a four-door version of the modern 8 Series. It combines the sporty shape of a coupe with more space for passengers. The G16 has a longer wheelbase than the two-door G15 Coupe. This design gives rear passengers more legroom and makes everyday driving more practical. BMW developed it for buyers who want luxury, performance, and easier access to the rear seats.

The G16 offers several engine options across different model years and markets. The 840i uses a 3.0-liter B58 turbocharged inline-six petrol engine. In its original U.S. specification, it produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M850i xDrive uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque in its original specification. Some markets also received the 840d with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. BMW pairs these engines with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while xDrive versions use all-wheel drive.

The interior of the BMW 8 Series G16 focuses on comfort and modern technology. It offers leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a digital instrument display. The infotainment system supports smartphone connectivity, while available features include a head-up display and premium Harman Kardon audio. The rear doors make it easier to enter and exit than the two-door Coupe. However, the sloping roof can limit headroom for taller passengers. Buyers considering a used G16 should check its service records, suspension condition, electronics, and engine maintenance history.

BMW 8 Series Engine

The BMW 8 Series engine options differ between the first-generation E31 and the modern G14, G15, and G16 models. The E31 offered V8 and V12 engines, including the M70 5.0-liter V12 and the M60 4.0-liter V8. BMW later introduced the 850CSi with the 5.6-liter S70 V12, which produced 375 horsepower. These engines gave the original 8 Series strong high-speed performance. They also helped establish its reputation as a luxury grand touring car.

The modern BMW 8 Series uses turbocharged engines for stronger power delivery and improved efficiency. The 840i features the 3.0-liter B58 turbocharged inline-six petrol engine. In its original U.S. specification, it produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M850i xDrive uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from BMW’s N63 engine family. Its original output is 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Selected markets also received the 840d, which uses a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. Most modern versions use an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The high-performance BMW M8 uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the S63 engine family. The original M8 produced 600 horsepower, while the M8 Competition increased output to 617 horsepower in its original U.S. specification. BMW paired these engines with an eight-speed automatic transmission and M-tuned xDrive all-wheel drive. Each engine offers a different driving character, from the smooth power of the B58 inline-six to the strong acceleration of the V8 models. Buyers should check the model year and market because engine output and available options can vary.

BMW 8 Series Price

The BMW 8 Series price depends on the model year, body style, engine, and vehicle condition. The main options include the E31 Coupe, modern G15 Coupe, G14 Convertible, and G16 Gran Coupe. The high-performance M8 models usually cost more than the standard 840i and M850i versions. Buyers should also consider mileage, service history, import duties, and local taxes when comparing prices.

For a new-car price reference, the modern 8 Series launched with different prices across its model range. In the United States, the 2019 840i Coupe started at around $88,000 before destination charges, while the M850i xDrive Coupe started at around $112,000. These are historical launch prices, not current 2026 market prices. Current values depend on the model year, specification, and local availability. Used examples can sell for much less or more depending on condition and rarity.

In Pakistan, the BMW 8 Series can cost significantly more because most examples enter the market through imports. Customs duties, registration taxes, exchange rates, and the car’s condition affect the final price. Rare E31 models may also command higher prices among collectors, especially well-maintained V12 versions. Before buying, compare local listings and verify the chassis number, maintenance records, and import documents. This helps you estimate the true ownership cost instead of relying only on the advertised price.

Conclusion

The BMW 8 Series has changed greatly since the original E31 Coupe arrived in 1989. The first generation stood out with its pop-up headlights, V12 engine, and advanced engineering. The modern G14 Convertible, G15 Coupe, and G16 Gran Coupe offer turbocharged engines, digital technology, and improved comfort. The M8 takes performance further with its powerful twin-turbocharged V8. Each generation has its own character, giving buyers different options for luxury and driving enjoyment.

Choosing the right BMW 8 Series depends on your budget, driving needs, and maintenance plans. The E31 appeals to collectors who value classic BMW engineering. The modern 840i suits drivers who want balanced performance, while the M850i and M8 deliver stronger acceleration. Before buying, check the service history, engine condition, and availability of replacement parts. A well-maintained example can provide an enjoyable grand touring experience for years.

FAQs 

1. How many generations of the BMW 8 Series are there?

The BMW 8 Series has two main generations: the E31, produced from 1989 to 1999, and the modern generation introduced in 2018.

2. What engines were available in the original BMW 8 Series E31?

The E31 offered V8 and V12 petrol engines, including the M70 5.0-liter V12, M60 4.0-liter V8, and S70 5.6-liter V12 in the 850CSi.

3. What is the difference between the BMW 8 Series G14, G15, and G16?

The G14 is the Convertible, the G15 is the two-door Coupe, and the G16 is the four-door Gran Coupe.

4. Which BMW 8 Series model offers the most performance?

The BMW M8 Competition delivers high performance with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 617 horsepower in its original U.S. specification.

5. Is the BMW 8 Series expensive to maintain?

Yes, maintenance can be costly because of its powerful engines, complex electronics, and premium components. A full service history can help buyers assess potential repair costs.