1992 BMW 850i

Built during May 1992 and first registered in August of the same year, this 850i (or 850ci as the nomenclature changed to during 1992) was optioned with the exceedingly rare six-speed manual transmission, which was barely ever seen on the 850i, as most ‘hardcore’ driving enthusiasts instead opted for the more performance-oriented 850CSi, which were all manual.

In addition to the six-speed ‘box, this example was also optioned with an M-Tech steering wheel (a strong choice, in our opinion) and M-Technic sports suspension. Over the years, a stainless-steel exhaust system has also been fitted, which amplifies the aural crescendo from the V12 engine up front without being crass or overbearing.

Full spec sheet:

- V12 engine

- Six-speed manual gearbox

- Electric rear blind

- Badge delete (since replaced)

- BMW Sports Seats

- M-Technic steering wheel

- Electric sliding roof

- Tinted screen

- Auto-dimming interior mirror

- M-Technic sports suspension

- Electronically adjusting steering column

In the care of the current owner for a number of years, the car has been cherished, fettled and carefully cosseted, but used and enjoyed.

Mauritius Blue is a fantastic shade for this V12-powered wedge-shaped GT (is that enough descriptors for you?) and the car presents in outstanding condition throughout.

Of course, for a vehicle of this age and mileage, there are a few - admittedly very minor - signs of life to be seen, with the following imperfections noted during our inspection:

- Small patch of lacquer peel on the upper edge of the nearside front bumper corner

- Stone chips and light ‘gravel rash’ in keeping with the vehicle’s age and condition

- Fading to the side window trims

- Small patched of de-lamination on the offside edge of the rear window

- Small chips on the edges of the front door

- Two tiny ‘pin’ dents on the driver’s door, so small that they didn’t photograph!

Other than the above, the Mauritius Blue paintwork is in great condition throughout with a wonderful shine and depth, whilst the bodywork is straight and free from any wear, damage or badly-aligned panels.

All four wheels are in excellent condition with only a few small patches of dulling visible, wrapped in matching Falken rubber.

Moving inside, this generously-equipped 850i remains in excellent condition throughout, and it’s not hard to imagine sitting in the armchair-like seats and riding a wave of easy-going torque as you point the car south and head across the continent to warmer weather via some lovely limitless Autobahns…

The condition is very good throughout, but, as with the exterior, there are a few indicators of the cars age visible throughout the cabin, including the following:

- The ashtray in the centre console not latching shut

- Small stains on the inside edge of the centre console by the driver’s seatbelt buckle

- Light wear to the outer bolsters on the front seats

- Wear around the base of the gearstick gaitor

- A small scab of corrosion visible on the passenger door, seen in image 174

A full set of over-mats is included with the vehicle, along with a number of spares.

In the rear, the boot presents in good order throughout, and a complete fold-down tool kit is a wonderful sight for any BMW enthusiast.

The previous knocking door hinge issue has been remedied with a NoS hinge, and a replacement stereo has been fitted and is in full working order.

Firing into life with a purposeful roar and settling into a refined, yet brooding idle courtesy of the V12 engine and upgraded exhaust system, the engine and mechanicals of this 850i appear to be in excellent health, and the vendor is not aware of any outstanding mechanical or electrical issues with the vehicle.

Under the bonnet, the engine bay has been lightly detailed and cleaned up, and presents fantastically. Being very particular, we did notice a few areas of corrosion on the headlight brackets (images 101/102) and on a few fixtures and fittings, but nothing that looks to be of any real concern. The oil filter housing is also messy, but - again - doesn’t appear to be anything more than an aesthetic issue.

Out on the road, the car performed flawlessly during our time in the driver’s seat, providing us with a simply gorgeous V12 soundtrack and turning plenty of heads.

The most recent MoT exam took place on 17 November 2022, resulting in a clean first-time pass at 82,070 miles.

Included with this 850i is a strong history of invoices and other documentation, comprised of the following highlights:

- V5 registered keepers document, showing 7 former owners

- Stamped service record, owners handbook and other miscellaneous BMW handbooks

- MoT certificates

- Invoice from the most recent service in March 2021 at 82,004 miles, including drive belt change, MoT, replacement of faulty fuel hoses and more at a cost of £717

- Full specification print-out

- Numerous service invoices

- Older invoices from Stratstone BMW

As always, we’ve photographed all of the documentation we’ve received here at The Market HQ, and this is available to view at the end of the gallery below.

Exceedingly rare in this specification, being an 850i/Ci with a six-speed manual gearbox, in excellent condition throughout and from enthusiast ownership, this is a fantastic opportunity to obtain a well-kept, cosseted and rare manual 850i.

An opportunity not to be missed by any BMW enthusiast or collector, we estimate this example to sell in the region of £25,000 to £33,000 when the virtual hammer falls.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; we are open weekdays 9am-5pm, to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.