BMW 8 Coupé 1990–1999 car dimensions: 4780 mm long, 1855 mm wide and 1340 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,855 kg. Braked towing is 1,600 kg.
Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, with separate driver and passenger temperature settings, automatic recirculation via pollution sensor, and microfilter. Cruise control is available, standard in some markets. Power seats with memory, multi-information display, and onboard computer are fitted. ABS and traction control (ASC+T) are standard. No modern touchscreen or ADAS features like emergency braking appear in period equipment lists.
Boot capacity is 320 litres by VDA measure. Some sources list up to 360 litres. The space suits touring luggage for two. Later cars gained a ski hatch and optional split-fold rear seats for longer items.
Braked towing capacity is listed at 1600 kg (12% gradient) or 1800 kg (8% gradient). Unbraked is 750 kg. Payload is around 400 kg depending on model and equipment. Gross vehicle weight ranges 2190-2340 kg.
The car is a grand tourer, not a work vehicle. Sport suspension and active rear axle appear on higher trims like the 850CSi. No heavy-duty cooling package is noted in standard specs.
The cabin feels refined and quiet with low wind noise from tight seals and aerodynamics. Multi-way power leather seats with memory, lumbar, thigh support and adjustable bolsters deliver firm long-distance comfort. Dual-zone automatic climate control with microfilter keeps the air clean. Power-adjustable steering column with memory and heated front seats add ease. Rear seats suit kids only.
Petrol V8 or V12 engines with 90-litre fuel tank.
ABS standard across the range.
Driver airbag early. dual front airbags standard later.
ASC traction control optional then standard.
Seat-integrated safety belts standard.
Cooling system needs regular attention.
Fuel comes from petrol V8 or V12 engines. Expect real-world economy in the mid-teens mpg range depending on model and driving. The tank holds enough for long tours between fills.
Servicing centres on regular oil and filter changes plus cooling system checks for hoses, radiator, pump and tank. Automatics need fluid and filter service. Electrics and suspension bushes demand specialist care as parts and labour run high. The service indicator guides intervals.
Safety kit includes four-channel ABS, seat-integrated belts that move with the seat, and airbags that arrived as standard over the years. Traction control helps in the wet. The body uses energy-absorbing structures.
Keeping the car means watching for deferred maintenance on cooling and electrics. Pop-up lights, window seals and headliner need checks. Well-maintained examples cover high miles reliably but repairs stay costly due to complexity and parts rarity.
Length 4780 mm, Width 1855 mm, Height 1340 mm, Wheelbase 2684 mm (8 Coupé 1990–1999)
Sources: manufacturer data, e31.net technical data according to BMW, Wikipedia/autoevolution/auto-forever.