The 1991 BMW 850, a sleek and powerful grand tourer, marked a significant turning point for the German automaker, introducing a new era of luxury and performance. Its arrival signaled BMW’s ambition to compete head-on with established luxury marques like Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar, challenging the status quo with its striking design, advanced technology, and exhilarating driving experience.
The 850’s design, penned by Claus Luthe, was a departure from the more conservative BMWs of the time. Its long, flowing lines, sculpted curves, and low-slung stance exuded an air of elegance and athleticism. Underneath the skin, the 850 boasted a sophisticated engineering marvel, featuring a powerful V12 engine, a sophisticated suspension, and advanced electronics that set a new benchmark for luxury car technology.
The 1991 BMW 850: A Grand Tourer for a New Era
The 1991 BMW 850i, often referred to as the E31, was a revolutionary grand tourer that marked a significant departure for the German automaker. Launched in the midst of a global economic downturn, the 850i aimed to reassert BMW’s position as a purveyor of luxury and performance.
Its sleek design, powerful engine, and advanced technology were intended to attract discerning drivers seeking a sophisticated and exhilarating driving experience.The 850i’s introduction coincided with a shift in the automotive landscape, with consumers demanding more luxurious and technologically advanced vehicles.
BMW responded by creating a car that pushed the boundaries of both design and engineering. The 850i was positioned as a competitor to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Jaguar XJ, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and exclusivity that appealed to a discerning clientele.
Design Philosophy and Target Audience
The 850i’s design was a bold statement, characterized by its long, flowing lines and aerodynamic profile. The car’s low-slung stance and sculpted bodywork emphasized its sporting intentions, while its luxurious interior and advanced features catered to the demands of a sophisticated clientele.
The 850i was designed to appeal to a diverse audience, including successful business executives, discerning enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique and stylish grand tourer. The 850i’s design was the result of a collaborative effort between BMW’s design team and the Italian design house, Pininfarina.
The car’s distinctive features included a long hood, a raked windshield, and a low-slung roofline, all contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency and striking appearance. The interior was equally impressive, featuring luxurious leather upholstery, a high-quality dashboard, and advanced technology, including a digital instrument cluster and a powerful sound system.
Design and Engineering
The 1991 BMW 850 was a bold statement in automotive design, blending aerodynamic efficiency with a striking visual presence. Its sleek lines and sophisticated engineering set a new standard for luxury grand touring, marking a significant departure from the more conservative styling of its predecessors.
Exterior Design
The 850’s exterior design was a triumph of form and function. The low-slung profile, with a long hood and a fastback roofline, was a testament to the car’s aerodynamic prowess. The distinctive kidney grille, a hallmark of BMW design, was wider and more pronounced, emphasizing the car’s powerful stance.
The sculpted bodywork featured smooth, flowing lines that minimized drag, contributing to the 850’s impressive fuel efficiency for a car of its size and performance.
The 1991 BMW 850, a luxury grand tourer, was a flagship model that embodied the brand’s commitment to performance and engineering excellence. While the 850 was known for its refined handling and powerful engine, BMW also made its mark in the motorcycle world with the 2004 BMW Motorcycle , which showcased the brand’s innovative design and advanced technology.
The 1991 BMW 850’s legacy continues to inspire BMW’s pursuit of automotive excellence, evident in their commitment to pushing boundaries across different segments.
Interior Design
The 850’s interior was a haven of luxury and refinement. High-quality materials, such as supple leather, rich wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents, were meticulously crafted to create a sense of opulence. The driver-oriented cockpit was designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a wraparound dashboard and a steering wheel that felt natural in the hands.
The seats were generously sized and offered excellent support, making long journeys comfortable and enjoyable.
Technical Specifications
The 1991 BMW 850 was powered by a 5.0-liter V12 engine, producing 300 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, offering precise and engaging driving dynamics. The 850’s chassis was designed for a balanced and controlled driving experience, with independent suspension on all four wheels and a sophisticated anti-lock braking system.
The 1991 BMW 850, a luxurious grand tourer, marked a significant departure from the brand’s typical offerings. Its sleek design and powerful V12 engine were reminiscent of the iconic 1989 BMW E24 , but with a more modern and refined touch.
The 850’s introduction cemented BMW’s commitment to building vehicles that embodied both performance and elegance, setting the stage for future models like the 6 Series and 7 Series.
Engineering Compared to Contemporaries
The 1991 BMW 850’s engineering stood out among its contemporaries, particularly in its focus on aerodynamics and advanced chassis technology. While other luxury cars of the era were often characterized by more traditional designs, the 850 embraced a more modern and performance-oriented approach.
Its V12 engine, while not the most powerful available at the time, was renowned for its smooth and refined power delivery. The 850’s chassis, with its independent suspension and sophisticated braking system, provided a level of handling and stability that was unmatched by many competitors.
Performance and Handling
The 1991 BMW 850 was not just a stylish grand tourer; it was a machine designed to deliver thrilling performance. Its powerful engine, sophisticated suspension, and precise handling made it a true driver’s car, capable of both comfortable cruising and spirited driving.
Performance Figures
The 850’s performance was remarkable for its time. Powered by a 5.0-liter V12 engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, it could reach a top speed of 155 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds.
These figures were competitive with other high-performance luxury cars of the era, such as the Mercedes-Benz 500SL and the Jaguar XJS.
Handling Characteristics
The 850’s handling was a testament to BMW’s engineering prowess. Its independent suspension, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear, provided excellent roadholding and stability. The car’s precise steering and balanced weight distribution allowed for nimble handling, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
“The 850 is a car that rewards a driver’s skill and confidence, offering a rewarding and engaging driving experience.”
Road & Track, 1991
Comparison to Other Luxury Cars
The 1991 BMW 850 stood out among its luxury car contemporaries. While other cars offered comparable power and luxury, the 850’s combination of performance, handling, and styling was unmatched. It was a true grand tourer, capable of effortlessly covering long distances in comfort and style while delivering exhilarating performance when desired.
Features and Technology
The 1991 BMW 850 was not just a car; it was a statement of luxury and technological advancement. It boasted a suite of features and technologies that were cutting-edge for its time, setting a new standard for the grand touring segment.
From its sophisticated sound system to its advanced climate control and comprehensive safety features, the 850 offered a driving experience that was both luxurious and secure.
The 1991 BMW 850 was a luxurious grand tourer, a departure from the sporty ethos of the brand. While the 850 offered a more refined experience, the company’s DNA remained evident in the agile handling, a characteristic inherited from models like the 1986 BMW 3 Series , which established the brand’s reputation for driving dynamics.
This blend of comfort and performance helped solidify the 850’s place as a coveted classic among BMW enthusiasts.
Technological Innovations
The 1991 BMW 850 was a showcase of innovative technology. It was one of the first production cars to feature a fully digital instrument cluster, providing drivers with a clear and concise display of vital information. This was a significant departure from the traditional analog gauges found in most cars at the time.
The 850 also incorporated an advanced onboard computer system, allowing drivers to access various vehicle functions and information. This system was a precursor to the sophisticated infotainment systems that are now ubiquitous in modern cars.
Key Features and Technologies
The 1991 BMW 850 was equipped with a range of features that enhanced both comfort and safety. These included:
- Sound System:The 850 featured a premium sound system that provided a rich and immersive audio experience. This system was a testament to BMW’s commitment to creating a luxurious driving environment.
- Climate Control:The 850 featured a sophisticated climate control system that ensured a comfortable cabin temperature regardless of the external conditions. This system utilized advanced technology to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, creating a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere for both the driver and passengers.
- Safety Features:Safety was paramount in the design of the 850. It was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including anti-lock brakes (ABS), a driver’s airbag, and a reinforced passenger compartment. These features provided a high level of protection for occupants in the event of an accident.
Comparison with Contemporary Luxury Cars
| Feature | 1991 BMW 850 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL | 1991 Lexus LS 400 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sound System | Premium Sound System | Standard Sound System | Premium Sound System |
| Climate Control | Automatic Climate Control | Automatic Climate Control | Automatic Climate Control |
| Safety Features | ABS, Driver’s Airbag | ABS, Driver’s Airbag | ABS, Driver’s Airbag |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes | No | No |
| Onboard Computer | Yes | No | No |
Legacy and Impact
The 1991 BMW 850, with its groundbreaking design and engineering, left an enduring mark on the automotive landscape. It not only established BMW as a leading force in the luxury grand tourer segment but also influenced the direction of luxury car design for decades to come.
Cultural Impact and Recognition
The 850’s sleek and sophisticated design, combined with its impressive performance, quickly captured the imagination of the public. It became a symbol of luxury and status, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and music videos. Its presence in popular culture further cemented its place as an iconic car.
- The 850 made its cinematic debut in the 1992 action thriller “The Last Boy Scout,” driven by Bruce Willis’ character, Joe Hallenbeck.
- The 850 was also featured in the 1993 film “Indecent Proposal,” driven by Robert Redford’s character, John Gage, further showcasing its appeal as a symbol of wealth and sophistication.
- Beyond film, the 850 found its way into music videos, notably in Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time” (1992), where it served as a symbol of luxury and extravagance.
Influence on Subsequent BMW Models
The 850’s design and engineering innovations paved the way for future BMW models. Its lightweight aluminum construction, advanced suspension, and powerful V12 engine set a new standard for luxury performance.
- The 850’s sleek and aerodynamic design, characterized by its long hood, flowing lines, and distinctive rear end, influenced the design of subsequent BMW models, including the 7 Series and the 6 Series.
- The 850’s V12 engine, a technological marvel for its time, inspired the development of high-performance V12 engines in later BMW models, such as the 760i and the M760i.
- The 850’s advanced suspension technology, which prioritized both comfort and handling, became a hallmark of BMW’s engineering excellence, influencing the development of sophisticated suspension systems in later models.
Place in the History of Luxury Car Design
The 1991 BMW 850 is widely regarded as a landmark achievement in luxury car design. Its groundbreaking design and engineering innovations set a new standard for the segment, influencing the direction of luxury car design for decades to come.
- The 850’s distinctive design, characterized by its sleek lines, long hood, and flowing curves, helped to redefine the luxury grand tourer segment, moving away from the boxy and conservative designs of the past.
- Its advanced technology, including its lightweight aluminum construction, powerful V12 engine, and sophisticated suspension, established a new benchmark for luxury performance and handling.
- The 850’s legacy continues to inspire car designers today, with its influence evident in the design of modern luxury grand tourers, such as the BMW 8 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Collecting and Ownership
The 1991 BMW 850, a groundbreaking grand tourer that redefined luxury and performance, has become a coveted collectible car. As its production ended in 1999, the 850 series, including the 850i and 850Ci, has seen a surge in value and collector interest, particularly for models in excellent condition.
Current Market Value and Collector Interest
The market value of a 1991 BMW 850 varies significantly depending on condition, mileage, and specific model. Well-maintained examples with low mileage can command premium prices, exceeding $20,000 in the United States. The increasing popularity of the 850 series, particularly among enthusiasts seeking a classic and powerful grand tourer, has driven this upward trend.
The 850i, known for its iconic V12 engine, and the 850Ci, with its elegant coupe design, are especially sought after by collectors.
Finding and Restoring a 1991 BMW 850
Finding a 1991 BMW 850 in good condition can be challenging, but not impossible. Online marketplaces like eBay and specialized classic car websites offer listings, although thorough inspection and due diligence are essential. Joining BMW enthusiast clubs and forums can connect you with dedicated collectors and potential sellers.
Restoring a 1991 BMW 850 requires specialized knowledge and resources. BMW-specific mechanics and parts suppliers are crucial for maintaining authenticity and preserving the car’s original character.
Tips and Advice for Owning and Maintaining a 1991 BMW 850
Owning and maintaining a 1991 BMW 850 demands dedication and a commitment to preserving its heritage. Regular servicing by experienced mechanics familiar with the 850 series is crucial for preventing costly repairs. Genuine BMW parts are recommended to ensure compatibility and longevity.
Joining BMW enthusiast communities provides access to valuable knowledge, shared experiences, and a supportive network for addressing any challenges.
Collecting and Owning a 1991 BMW 850: A Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Value | Prices vary depending on condition, mileage, and model. Well-maintained examples can exceed $20,000. |
| Finding a Car | Online marketplaces, specialized classic car websites, and enthusiast clubs are good resources. |
| Restoration | Requires specialized knowledge, BMW-specific mechanics, and genuine parts. |
| Maintenance | Regular servicing by experienced mechanics and use of genuine parts are crucial. |
| Community | BMW enthusiast clubs and forums provide valuable knowledge, support, and resources. |
Last Point: 1991 BMW 850
The 1991 BMW 850 remains a captivating testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and performance. Its legacy continues to inspire and captivate car enthusiasts, showcasing the evolution of luxury car design and engineering. While its production run was relatively short, the 850 left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, solidifying BMW’s reputation as a leading force in the luxury segment.
