Test Car Specifications
Model: 2023 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible
Price: 8 Series Convertible From £88,160, M850i xDrive from £119,200
Engine: 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 petrol
Transmission: eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Power: 530hp
Torque: 750Nm
Emissions: 244-249g/km
Economy/Range: 26.2mpg
0-62mph: 4.1 seconds
Top speed: 155mph
Boot space: 350 litres
Styling
Enthusiasts will likely be pleased to note that BMW's changes to the 8 Series have been subtle. There's no enormous grille (phew!) and there's no huge shift in styling. Instead, it's nip-tuck surgery with an illuminated grille fitted as standard, while this M850i xDrive version comes with aerodynamic M door mirror housings and some other sporty features, not to mention the M Performance pack with its M sport brakes, extended high-gloss black exterior trim and M seat belts. The result is a good-looking car, but one that only looks marginally different from its predecessor.
Interior
In essence, the new 8 Series' cabin looks much the same as that of the old car. There's the same basic dashboard design and the same two-screen infotainment system combining a digital instrument display and a main touchscreen. You get the same immaculate build quality, too, with posh materials bolted together perfectly. But look very closely and you'll notice a small change, because the touchscreen has grown in size. Of course, most won't notice the difference from day to day, especially as the larger screen uses the same basic interface as before, complete with the handy iDrive rotary controller that makes it easier to use on the move. We're also big fans of the seats, which are brilliant, and the optional Bowers and Wilkins sound system, which is fantastic.
Practicality
Although it’s the biggest convertible in BMW’s line-up, the 8 Series is not especially practical. It has four seats, but the rearmost are not really spacious enough for adults – especially with the roof up – and even kids will find it a bit cramped if there’s a tall person in front. Boot space is better, with the 350-litre luggage bay offering only slightly less space than a Ford Focus’ boot, albeit in a less practical shape. And weirdly enough, a 4 Series Convertible has more luggage space. Go figure.
Performance
The new 8 Series is available with a choice of two petrol engines: the 3.0-litre 840i and the 4.4-litre M850i tested here. Both come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, but the former drives the rear wheels alone, while the latter comes with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. With that 530hp V8 motor on board, the M850i xDrive sounds great and it goes well too, getting from 0-62mph in around four seconds before accelerating on to 155mph. Traction is great even in the wet and the power shifts between the axles imperceptibly, while the engine feels smooth and refined with the roof up and a more comfort-orientated drive mode selected. It's even reasonably economical, topping 25mpg if you're gentle.
Ride & Handling
Despite being all-wheel-drive, the M850i xDrive has the knack of feeling like a rear-drive grand tourer at all times. It has the balance and the intuitive handling characteristics of an oversized Mazda MX-5, although the immense weight means it doesn't have quite as much agility. Nevertheless, the steering is brilliant, the car responds sharply and it all feels stable, substantial and sporty. But it rides well, too. Yes, you can feel the bumps, but few will jar you through your seat as you might expect in a massive sports car. It strikes a great balance between body control and comfort, and that makes it a really compelling grand tourer.
Value
With prices starting at just over £119,000, this V8 version of the 8 Series Convertible is not what you'd call cheap. In fact, it costs around £30,000 more than the standard six-cylinder version, and that's a lot of money. You could have a nearly new 3 Series for that. And you don't get an awful lot more for your money in terms of equipment. Yes, there are some M Sport additions, but there's little extra luxury or technology. But the biggest problem is that the M850i offers little more space or equipment than an M440i, which costs about half as much. If you can cope with the 4 Series' looks and you can do without the V8, the lighter and more agile 4 Series is where the sensible cash will go.
Verdict
While the 4 Series Convertible might be the drop-top BMW you buy with your head, the 8 Series is the one that appeals to your heart. And your eyes. Yes, it's expensive. Yes, it's unnecessary, but it looks good and it drives brilliantly. And when you fire up the V8 and drop the roof, it sounds magnificent.
