1994 BMW 850 CSi (E31) - Manual

The BMW 850 CSi was the factory's flagship model in the mid-1990s and featured the silky smooth S70 V12 engine mated to a Getrag 6-speed manual transmission and was one of the first cars ever to offer drive-by-wire throttle control. Developed from the M70, the S70 increased the bore and stroke and utilised more aggressive valve timings, resulting in an increase in maximum power to an impressive 380bhp at 5,300rpm and torque to 402lb/ft at 4,000rpm. With the hydraulic control unit mounted on the differential, the 850 uses hydraulic rear steering linked to Servotronic front steering to give precise, high-speed stability and harness the S70's significant power output for a great driving experience.

Although considered avant-garde when it first arrived, the pillarless coupé was blessed with classically proportioned, understated and essentially timeless styling that has not dated, and these beautiful and exclusive Gran Turismos still look modern today.

This outstanding manual gearbox example is finished in Oxford Green Metallic with a contrasting black and ivory leather interior and has benefitted from a comprehensive, no expense spared rebuild in recent years. The in-depth restoration was far more than skin deep as not only was the exterior totally stripped and bare metalled before being professionally refinished, but the engine was fully rebuilt by BMR Performance with invoices on file for £40,000. The suspension was stripped and overhauled as required, new brake discs and calipers were fitted, the fuel lines were replaced and much more, meaning that, in reality, the total restoration cost in excess of £80,000. Invoices for this work are in the car's history file alongside the original book pack, stamped service records and an original sales brochure. It will be presented for a fresh MOT prior to the sale.

These are rare with only 138 right-hand drive, manual gearbox cars being allocated to the UK. With values of the 3.0 CSL and M635 CSi climbing rapidly, this ultimate specification 850 CSi may well be a worthwhile investment. We welcome your inspection of this high-performance, modern classic at our Silverstone Festival Sale.