I'd say a tossup between the 840 and a first-generation SC400.......They are both beautiful cars. I agree with the advice to avoid the V12...for the reasons already posted and the parts/maintenance issue, not to mention the price of those parts. The SC400 will likely be more reliable. The 840 will probably have a stronger frame and better crash-protection....and, in the pre-Chris Bangle BMW tradition, be a more pure driver's machine. Check insurance, too, before you decide...I recommend GEICO, if you qualify.

 

Thanks for the replies...like I said earlier it's for my dad who wants something sporty and has always liked the design of the 8 series, so insurance and maintenance are a non-issue (and he could probably do all the maintenance himself anyways since he's retired and works on tractors/bulldozer's and other misc. V8's, etc...all the time)...also, I remember that I sat in one a long time ago, but it needs to comfortly fit a 6'5" male

 

wow, kva = yao

 

wrong equation. kva = yao - 1ft

 

lol...not even close to yao...that guy makes us ALL look short!

 

me = yao + 1 ft

 

You must be REALLY tall then...talgrl626 ...sure must be a SIGHT!

 

two inline-6's put together with different pumps and such? thas pretty odd for "The Ultimate Driving Machine" ....... although in their defense.... did McLaren not use that same engine to build the fastest car in the world (well up until these days at least)?? Pretty interesting they could use such a haphazzardly designed engine to put out that kind of power.

 

the 840 pre96 was the 4.0liter engine many problems but the 96+ was 4.4 liter much better more reliable, my uncle had a 750 98' that was like a airplane but overall go for the 8cyl. easier to maintain and more reliable than v12. but over 100k expect heating/cooling problems (radiator,thermostat etc...) but after that its great engine.

 

classic car.. i still want one to mod. led tailights,xenon headlights, custom interior, nav, just update it to newer technology to keep it current and you would have a car that would stand the test of time, just like the sc in my book.

 

I have always liked these cars as well, although they are rare. I think the SC is fighting father time a little better than the 840/50 though, especially in the interior.

Tell your father to get a 99-00 SC400. I think it would be a better overall experience for him (performance, styling, RELIABILITY) I'm 6'4 and these things are plenty room for me (leg room) the roof is a little closer, but thats just the coupe "ambiance".

Also, 99-00 SCs are pretty rare (and pricey)!

 

Ohhh, this makes a little sense now. My brother-in-law has a friend who has the 850 and said that 6 of his cylinders broke down and is now running on only 6. Now I know what he was talking about-what a POS! Ultimate driving machine....only if they don't break down on you. But the styling is awesome with some staggered chrome Schnitzers!

 

AS stated get the one with the 4.4 liter, which is still used today. BUt honestly, the cars are as unreliable as they get. Electronics gremlins galore. Sad, as the car to this day is BEAUTIFUL!!!

If you have the money to repair, get it. It's a rare beast. drop down rear windows and floating headrests=

 

Ahhh the one and only BMW I almost broke down and bought. That car is timeless.

 

i love the 8series. I would give up my SC to have it.