Laguna Green Stunner: 1992 BMW 850i Coupe – Sold?

December 17, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

There are few BMWs that evoke the type of emotions that an E31 coupe can bring out. This is easily one the most stunning cars BMW has ever made, and like the mistress you should never have struck a conversation up with, it’s also the sort of vehicle that will bankrupt you quickly if bought too hastily. This 1992 BMW 850ci appeared in November 2021 on Craigslist in Hanover, Massachusetts, and is said to be a strong runner with minor cosmetic issues for $31,900. Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has priced his E31 fairly, with an “Excellent” car pegged at $53,900 and a “Good” example worth $27,700.

The E31 isn’t one of those models that is unfairly maligned for its mechanical reputation. No; it is a challenging vehicle to maintain to a high degree, especially when you encounter one that hasn’t been looked after. While we always say maintenance records are essential when buying any used vehicle, there are certainly some models where you can take a leap of faith if you acquire it with no paper trail. The E31 is not one of those vehicles, and it’s essential to buy one that has strong evidence of being looked after. The 8-Series was available with eight- and twelve-cylinder engines, as well as a manual gearbox. The 12-cylinder with three pedals is an incredible machine, but exceedingly hard to find. No matter which option you choose, a well-maintained E31 will be the grand tourer of your dreams in short order.

Here is a MotorWeek Retro Review of the more popular V8-powered 940ci version of this car:

The seller’s car is painted a tantalizing shade of Laguna Green paint over a tan interior, and the color alone is enough to make you want to own this exclusive two-door. The seller reports that before residing in Massachusetts, it lived in Texas, which has kept it rust-free at the expense of some clearcoat being damaged and professionally corrected with fresh paint on the hood and trunk. The seller points out that mileage is low at just under 70,000 and that the BMW is equipped with a Remus exhaust that likely gives the V12 a subtle bark. Less is said about the car’s maintenance history, which is really what you want to see in any description for an 8-Series BMW. While the listing promises that it runs and drives perfectly, I would respectfully advise any potential buyers to ask for the extra-thick folder with years’ worth of maintenance receipts before taking the plunge. Good luck with the purchase if you take this rare 8-Series home.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Fantastic and well cared for 1992 BMW 850i Coupe.

1 of 1700 produced in 1992. Rare Laguna Green over tan leather interior and featuring the powerful 5.0L 12 cylinder 296HP engine which was first used in the McLaren F-1 race car has aluminum block and heads along with port fuel injection. The engine specializes in smoothness and tranquility while developing that 296 hp at 5200 rpm. 68,685 original miles. This high performance BMW was an original TX car and has been well cared through the years and is in overall very nice condition. All power with all new brakes, pads and rotors installed by BMW, new tires that are less than 3 years old and have less than 300 miles. Paint is in overall very good condition with only some minor scratches beneath the driver door as shown. The Texas heat did take some toll on the clearcoat and part of the hood and trunk were expertly re-sprayed to match the original color. Tan leather interior is in overall excellent condition with only some very minor wear on the driver’s seat. All gauges are all working and the car passed MA inspection in July 2021. Clean trunk compartment with BMW tool kit and compact disc changer. Very clean undercarriage with New Remus stainless steel dual exhaust that purrs beautifully. The car comes with 2 extra sets of wheels, 1 set is stock BMW and the other is an aftermarket set by Borbet as shown. Car cover also included. This powerful BMW runs, drives and handles perfectly.

A $90K+ car when new. $31,900 OBO.

Call Jeff for more information or to schedule a viewing of this great Import Classic.“

Do you have a BMW 850ci story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!