Sophisticated muscle.
BMW's Motorsport engineers have redesigned the V12 for the 850CSi, creating a 5.6-liter engine with 372 hp at 5300 rpm and 402 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, propelling it from 0-60 in an astounding 5.7 seconds. Unique to the 850CSi, a switch on the console introduces a new variable throttle linkage that allows the driver to select "Sport" for spontaneous power, or "Comfort" that makes the tremendous power of this engine surprisingly tractable, to provide smooth driving, particularly in city traffic or at low speeds.
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.
Automatic with a choice of shift modes.
The 850Ci has a 4-speed electronic-hydraulic (EH) automatic transmission that combines the best of automatic and manual shifting. A console switch lets the driver determine the type of driving performance, based on road conditions or personal style: "Economy" for reduced fuel consumption; "Manual" for slippery surfaces, inclines or heavy loads; or "Sport" for more 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. The 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 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.
EH four-speed automatic transmission.
The electronic-hydraulic (EH) control of the four- speed (850CI) automatic transmission offers precise shift programming through computer interaction with the DME system. This reduces engine torque, reducing loads in the transmission's clutches for outstandingly smooth shifting. EH offers a choice of three shift modes (Economy, Sport and Manual) to suit different driving conditions. Safety provisions prevent engaging reverse gear, even accidentally, as well as downshifts into third, second or first gear at car speeds that would cause excessive engine speeds. Whenever the engine is started, the console switch automatically reverts to the Economy position.
Electronic Damping Control (EDC III).
BMW's computer-controlled suspension system (EDC) adjusts the shock absorber setting within fractions of a second to any change in road, load or driving conditions, to improve both riding comfort and handling, even beyond the normally excellent levels. A console switch also allows the driver to choose Sport or Comfort settings. Shock absorbers with three levels of firmness and a magnetic valve system directly on the shocks allow virtually instantaneous switching. The "soft" setting is 70 percent softer than normal, while the "firm" setting is significantly firmer than normal. "Medium" is essentially standard. The driver is never aware of the switching; only that the car handles amazingly well and is comfortable, regardless of road surface. (Available as an option on 850Ci only.)
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.
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.
BMW 840Ci Technology
BMW 850Ci Technology
BMW 8-Series Design
BMW 8-Series Safety
BMW 8-Series Features
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