What do you get when you purchase a BMW 8-Series coupe? A car that costs way too much. Of course, BMW enthusiasts will argue that we are missing the boat, but we really have no idea who is supposed to buy this vehicle.

The distinguishing feature of the BMW 8-Series is a noticeable lack of intent, a definite aberration in the standard order of BMW vehicle design. Initially developed as a luxury sports coupe, the 8-Series is now wallowing in a schizophrenic never-never land. Is the car sporty? Well its looks are appealing, but BMW's own M3 positively dusts the 8-Series in the performance category. Is the 8-Series luxurious? Though filled with interesting and well-appointed accouterments such as an on-board computer, Nappa leather upholstery, six-disc CD changer, 440-watt stereo and a heated driver's door lock, we think that it has a very cramped interior and don't feel that it is nicer than its competitors from Mercedes, Lincoln and Lexus.

Unfortunately, BMW pulled the impressive CSi from the 8-Series lineup in 1996, removing the performance component that may have justified the exorbitant price asked for these cars. We feel that if you want a small, German sports car that costs between $70,000 and $90,000, you should look at a Porsche Carrera. If you simply want an exclusive luxury car that has a performance component, check out the Lexus SC coupes; you'll be able to buy two for the price of one 8-Series.

1997 Highlights

Engine displacement is bumped up, making the 1997 840Ci and 850Ci a bit stronger than last year's models. BMW's five-speed Steptronic is now standard on both models.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 1997 BMW 8 Series.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.03 reviews

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5(33%)

4(33%)

3(34%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Love and Obsession

crcruznsf,10/12/2002

I fell in love with the 8-series when it first debuted in 1991, and dreamed of owning one. Purchased my mid-life crisis car in 2000, and I have been in driver heaven ever since. Handling, handling, handling, on rails! Sinks into the road at high speed (tops at around 160, and yes, I got a ticket). Just drove cross-country with it and it was much more fun than flying

What they should have built originally

KElliott,04/20/2003

This is not your father's 850. A stock machine was given to Steve Dinan and $45,000 later, a twin-turbo super coupe was delivered. Suffice it to say that all of the performance short comings were eliminated as there now lurks a 525hp, 550 lb.torque well mannered V12 waiting to be driven. Less then 50 V12s were altered and of the 8's, most were automatics (not as

do your own work

geof gaertner,07/08/2017

the BMW 840 is a great car to drive and gets looks everywhere you go. BUT....parts are hard to find and some have to be fabricated . the wiring of the front headlights (all ) needs to be repaired due to cheap wire and brittle plastic .IN a whole as I stated it's a GREAT CAR but labor intensive and you are better off if you can do most of the work yourself .mine is a 1995 and I have put a

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Features & Specs

MPG

14 city / 19 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

282 hp @ 5700 rpm

MPG

12 city / 19 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

322 hp @ 5000 rpm

See all Used 1997 BMW 8 Series features & specs

Safety

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
0

More about the 1997 BMW 8 Series

Used 1997 BMW 8 Series Overview

The Used 1997 BMW 8 Series is offered in the following submodels: 8 Series Coupe. Available styles include 840Ci 2dr Coupe, and 850Ci 2dr Coupe.

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Should I lease or buy a 1997 BMW 8 Series?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Used 1997 BMW 8 Series

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