Is a Used BMW 850i V8 a better buy than a New M4?

Summary

In this video, the host explores the BMW 850i xDrive, a luxury coupe offering a balance of performance, comfort, and style. Featuring a V8 engine with 523 horsepower and a refined interior, the 850i provides a powerful yet smooth driving experience. The host appreciates the car's dual screens, leather interior, and crystal gear shifter but criticizes the brake feel and lack of a sunroof. Comparing it to the BMW M4, the host highlights the 850i's value as a used option, noting its depreciation but also its premium features and strong performance.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The reviewer is comparing a BMW 850i X Drive with the M4 Coupe in terms of performance and luxury.
• 💰 The BMW 850i is a more affordable option, costing around AUD $150,000, compared to the M4 Coupe priced around AUD $200,000 new.
• ⚙️ The 850i has a V8 engine, producing 523 horsepower and 750 NM of torque, with great low-end power starting at 1,800 RPM.
• 🎵 The exhaust note is subtle and refined, without the loud pops and bangs common in some other V8 engines.
• 🛋️ The interior is luxurious, with dual landscape screens, minimal piano black, and ample leather throughout the cabin.
• 📦 While rear seats are small, they are sufficient for short trips, and the trunk has decent depth for luggage.
• 🔧 One downside is the brake feel, which the reviewer finds less intuitive, but it's something that could be adjusted to over time.
• 🌟 The crystal gear shifter is a divisive design element, likely to be loved or disliked depending on personal taste.
• 🚦 The ZF gearbox in comfort mode is smooth but lacks the engaging feel of a dual-clutch transmission, though it handles the V8’s torque well.
• 🌏 The reviewer feels restricted by Australia's over-policed and slow roads, finding the car almost too quiet when cruising at 100 km/h.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video transcript?

The video focuses on a review of a BMW 850i xDrive, particularly highlighting its features, performance, and whether it is a better alternative to the BMW M4 coupe for someone seeking luxury and performance at a lower price.

What are some key features of the BMW 850i's interior mentioned in the video?

The interior features include dual landscape screens, a moderately sized steering wheel, premium leather throughout, LED lighting, minimal piano black surfaces, small but usable rear seats, and two Type-C ports. There’s also a crystal gear shifter, which is described as a love-it-or-hate-it feature.

How does the BMW 850i's V8 engine perform according to the reviewer?

The 850i's V8 engine delivers 523 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, which is available from as low as 1,800 RPM. The reviewer describes the engine as refined and powerful, with a pleasant exhaust note that isn't overly loud or obnoxious.

What does the reviewer think of the car's driving dynamics and comfort?

The reviewer appreciates the combination of comfort and power. While it may not be as dynamically exciting as the M4, the 850i offers a comfortable ride with enough sportiness to be enjoyable, especially on long trips. The car is also described as refined, particularly in its handling of body roll in sport mode.

What are the reviewer's thoughts on the BMW 850i's transmission?

The reviewer notes that the ZF gearbox in the 850i doesn't provide as satisfying a feel as a dual-clutch transmission but performs well in this luxury GT setup. While it isn't always in the right gear at the right time, the torque from the V8 engine compensates for this minor issue.

What are some of the downsides of the BMW 850i that the reviewer mentions?

The reviewer mentions a few downsides, such as the brake feel not being as intuitive, the lack of a sunroof, and the gearbox not always being in the right gear at the right time. Additionally, the car is said to feel too refined and quiet at highway speeds, making it less engaging in certain driving environments.

How does the BMW 850i compare to the BMW M4 in terms of price and features?

The BMW 850i is presented as a more affordable option, with lightly used models available for around 150,000 AUD compared to over 200,000 AUD for a new M4 xDrive Competition. The 850i offers more comfort and luxury, while the M4 is more dynamically exciting but has a higher price tag.

What kind of driving conditions does the reviewer suggest the BMW 850i is best suited for?

The reviewer suggests that the BMW 850i is ideal for long trips due to its comfort, power, and spacious boot. It is described as a comfortable Grand Tourer that excels in cruising and handling high-speed drives on open roads.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the BMW 850i's exhaust sound?

The reviewer appreciates the exhaust sound of the 850i, describing it as a refined grumble that isn’t overly loud or obnoxious, unlike some other V8s. It provides a subtle but satisfying presence.

What is the warranty situation for a used BMW 850i mentioned in the video?

Since the reviewed BMW 850i is a 2020 model, it no longer comes with a manufacturer warranty. However, the reviewer notes that a 1, 2, or 3-year warranty can be purchased through the dealership. Alternatively, owners could tune the engine for more power, essentially making it perform like an M8.