The Ultimate 90s Sleeper: Manhart's BMW 850CSi is the RADwood Revival We've Been Waiting For
The 1990s era of automotive design was marked by significant innovations and distinctive character, and one car that stood out was the BMW 850CSi. Originally, BMW developed a prototype for the M8—a V-12 beast that was meant to redefine the 8-Series. However, it never saw production. Instead, the most potent 850CSi managed a commendable 380 hp. Fast forward to today, and German tuning shop Manhart has stepped in to fill that void, creating what could be deemed the M8 that BMW never built.
The powerhouse engine under the hood of this revamped 850CSi is none other than the revered S62B50 V8 from the E39 M5. Despite losing four cylinders compared to the original V12, there’s no lack of power – the upgraded V8 churns out 420 hp and offers a significantly lighter weight, enhancing overall performance. To top it off, Manhart’s Performance Classic division married this engine to a six-speed manual transmission and implemented their own stainless steel sports exhaust system. The result? You get the MH8, a restomod that combines contemporary performance with classic aesthetics, and the catch is only five of these will be produced.
Revamped Suspension and Handling
The original 8-Series was more GT than sports car, but Manhart has cleverly addressed this with a series of suspension modifications. Riding on shorter H&R springs, with Bilstein B6 dampers and widened track courtesy of Manhart’s own wheel spacers, the car now handles precisely as a high-performance vehicle should. Further complementing these upgrades are 20-inch Concave One diamond-polished wheels and a beefier brake setup with 340mm discs and four-piston calipers.
External modifications are understated yet effective. The MH8 proudly wears the front apron and rear bumper of the 850CSi, along with M-spec mirrors to complete its sporty look. Inside, the cabin overhaul remains true to the luxury ethos yet embraces a sportier character. The leather upholstery is complemented by Alcantara trims on the steering wheel, handbrake, gear-shift, headliner, sports seat shells, and the rear parcel shelf.
Exclusivity and Price
Creating the MH8 was no small feat; the project demanded almost three years of meticulous restoration and development. As for those lucky enough to snag one, the price tag is set at an eye-watering €149,000 (approximately $162,000 USD). Given the combination of rarity, performance, and craftsmanship, it’s a price many will consider well worth paying for a piece of automotive history reinvented.
For automotive enthusiasts aiming to steal the spotlight at events like RADwood, the Manhart MH8 might just be the perfect ticket. Resonating with the nostalgia of the '90s yet armed with modern engineering marvels, this car is sure to turn heads. Manhart has successfully bridged the gap between what was and what could have been, transforming the 850CSi into the legendary M8 BMW enthusiasts always dreamed about.