A brainy engine.
BMW's pioneering research in computerized engine control helped produce Digital Motor Electronics (DME), one of the most advanced engine management systems in use today. DME controls the engine with utmost precision, protects it from critical loads, and keeps it running smoothly at all times. Thus the BMW 8-Series is able to combine economy with powerful performance and a long, efficient running life. DME even has its own self-diagnosis and fail-safe program for efficiently diagnosing the engine and helping to reduce maintenance.
Introducing the 840Ci with a low-maintenance V8 engine.
The new 840Ci's V8 engine gives driving enthusiasts a winning combination: refined power throughout the entire speed range, and little routine engine maintenance beyond changing oil, filters and spark plugs. Unusually lightweight and smooth, the 4.0-liter V8 develops 282 hp at 5800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. This translates to 0-60 in 7.1 seconds and a test track top speed of 155 mph. The V8 offers exciting performance that will have you inventing reasons to go places. And practical values that pay off in owner satisfaction.
Automatic with a choice of shift modes.
The 840Ci has BMW's new 5-speed automatic that requires no maintenance. The driver has a choice of shift modes: "Automatic" with exceptionally smooth gear shift transitions; "Winter" that starts in second gear to improve traction; or a more powerful sports shift program for dynamic driving.
Road-hugging suspension.
These are drivers' cars, designed to provide exceptional feedback for a better sense of the road and an exhilarating driving experience. The double-pivot strut front suspension incorporates two aluminum lower control arms that help provide excellent control and stability, with low unsprung weight. A wide track and near 50:50 weight distribution result in outstanding stability, excellent control under braking, low road noise and superb cornering ability. The integral rear suspension represents a breakthrough in design, combining lateral control arms, trailing links and the system's key--integral links. This ingenious design lets the individual wheels move independently of each other in three dimensions in response to road conditions and forces generated by cornering and breaking. The result is minimal dive and squat under braking and acceleration, and excellent directional stability, even on rough surfaces. BMW engineers have designed a rear suspension system that stabilizes the 8-Series under sharp changes of loading, such as lifting off the accelerator while cornering. This corrective effect helps ensure added control, especially in emergency situations.
Check/Control.
Check/Control monitors the functioning of all major systems and bulbs in the car and alerts the driver to any deviation from their proper operation. Any defect information is displayed in alphanumeric characters and accompanied by a warning signal. Information is displayed on a priority basis, depending on importance of function.
Digital Motor Electronics.
BMW's uses an advanced electronic system of engine management-- Digital Motor Electronics III (DMEIII). DME III precisely monitors and controls the ignition, timing, fuel injection and air mixture, as well as numerous ancillary functions. It provides optimal power with the lowest possible fuel consumption and emission level under all operating conditions.
Five-speed automatic transmission.
The five-speed automatic transmission in the 840Ci requires no maintenance and offers the driver a choice of shift modes. The computer-controlled "A" mode automatically changes the shift points as determined by load, driving conditions and personal driving style. The gear shift transition is so smooth, it's barely discernable. In "Winter" mode the transmission starts in second gear, reducing possible wheelspin and improving traction. Shifting from "D" into "4" provides a more powerful sports shift program. Utilizing the extraordinary acceleration capabilities of the engine, each gear is retained up to its maximum speed for dynamic driving.
Ellipsoid headlight system.
The 8-Series models feature a road lighting system consisting of two low-profile retractable units. Each carries a super-ellipsoid low beam, foglight and high beam. The small size of the ellipsoid lights allows the retractable units to maintain a low profile for minimal disturbance of airflow over the front end. Additional beams in the bumper serve as daytime flashers, so main lights do not have to be raised.
Energy Control.
At speeds over 5 mph, the Energy Control's analog display (integrated with the tachometer) informs the driver of the rate of fuel consumption. By driving more efficiently, fuel savings can be achieved.
Knock Control.
The 840Ci's V8 engine is enhanced with knock control. By varying individual cylinder ignition timing, knock control prevents engine knocking and possible damage to the engine. This allows an increase in the compression ratio without the risk of damage. As a result, the engine is able to make optimum use of the fuel.
Integral link rear suspension.
BMW's unique integral link rear suspension is a breakthrough in design, combining five guiding elements per wheel: one upper transverse link, two lower transverse links, a longitudinal link and the exclusive integral link. This ingenious design lets the individual wheels move independently of each other in three dimensions in response to road conditions and forces generated by cornering and braking. The result is minimal dive and squat under braking and acceleration and excellent directional stability, even on rough roads.
On-board computer.
The on-board computer offers the driver a wide range of data, such as: time, average speed, average fuel consumption, miles left in the tank at present rate of use, distance to destination, speed limit and outside temperature; it even warns if the temperature has dropped to a point where road surfaces may ice up. While driving, information can be called up by remote control on one of the steering column stalks. The on-board computer also provides a coded security lock that can be set to disable the engine to help prevent theft.
Service Interval Indicator.
A microprocessor receives input from the starter, tachometer, odometer and engine-temperature sensor. Information is processed continuously, to determine when maintenance will be required. The driver sees a row of light-emitting diodes (LED) plus "Oil Service" and "Inspection" lights. As time for service approaches, fewer green LEDs light. When service is due, the yellow LED and either "Oil Service" or "Inspection" light up. If the owner postpones maintenance, a red LED illuminates as a warning.
* Electronically limited
BMW 850Ci Technology
BMW 850CSi Technology
BMW 8-Series Design
BMW 8-Series Safety
BMW 8-Series Features
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