It cost BMW nearly $1 billion to develop the 8 Series, the first Bimmer with a V12 paired to a six-speed transmission. They then unveiled the car — to a thunderous reception — at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
That was in 1989. Ten years later, production on the 8 Series was halted after only 31,000 models had come off the line.
Today, though, they announced they’re taking a second crack:
CEO Krüger: “The next step of our product offensive is taking shape. A glimpse of the new BMW 8 Series Coupé.” #bmw #8series #bmwgroup pic.twitter.com/re1FhTZpIA
— BMW Group (@BMWGroup) May 11, 2017
In addition to the online announcement, BMW CEO Harold Kruger spoke about the upcoming relaunch at a shareholder’s meeting in Munich and indicated the revamped 8 Series will debut in the flesh at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy later this month, Motor Trend reported.
“The BMW 8 Series Coupe will build on our tradition of luxurious sports coupes and add a genuine dream car to our line-up — a slice of pure automotive fascination,” said Krüger. “The 8 Series Coupe will underpin our claim to leadership in the luxury segment. I can tell you today that this will be a true luxury sports coupe.” It will replace the 6 Series, which BMW quietly pulled from production earlier this year.
According to a number of automotive outlets, the new 8 Series model will be a V8-powered two-seater that will launch late next year for $165k, with a V12 edition and a convertible to follow.
When we have something other than tweets and rumors to go on, you’ll be the first to know.
Meet your guide
More Like This
This article appeared in an InsideHook newsletter. Sign up for free to get more on travel, wellness, style, drinking, and culture.
