AHEAD OF ITS TIME.

The outstanding feature of the BMW M8 E31 prototype is its large 6-litre engine. V12 engines have always been amongst the most desired by true car enthusiasts, but this one is a particularly unique. The power unit, derived specifically from the S70 engine that was known for top performance, combines superiority, smooth running and enormous performance potential with an impressive appearance. Among the numerous technical highlights, the highly visible intake system, made entirely of carbon fibre, and the roller valves used instead of classic throttle valves, stand out. In addition to the weight advantage, the components allow an unimpeded flow at full load. Top performance was highest priority during development: the M version of the E31 coupe would have rolled onto the road at the beginning of the 1990s with up to 640 hp – a figure almost without competition back then. To put that in context: the most powerful BMW 8 Series at the time was the BMW 850Csi, which produced 380 hp.

The striking bright red paint scheme aside, the BMW M8 prototype presents itself in a slightly more reserved manner, given what lies beneath its progressive bodywork. Yet several exterior features make it stand out from the normal 8-Series E31, underlining the M specific character of this refined racer. Immediately striking are the aerodynamically shaped racing wing mirrors and the widely flared wheel arches. The latter are reminiscent of the legendary first-generation BMW M3 and are further accentuated by the large air intakes in the side panels in front of the rear wheels. The prototype’s wider drive axle creates space for a significantly wider track that, in addition to giving it a bolder stance, also benefits the vehicle’s driving dynamics.

The M8 prototype also sets itself apart from the standard BMW 8-Series at the front – or more precisely on the bonnet – where it does without the folding headlights found on all other E31 models at the time. Instead, the dipped and main beam lights are completely integrated into the bumper. This design feature means the one-piece bonnet eliminates any additional gaps that could create additional air resistance, resulting in significantly better aerodynamics, particularly at high speeds. On the other hand, the many lightweight components of the body are barely visible. For example, the doors, boot lid and bonnet are constructed from lightweight glass reinforced plastic. The result is impressive, enabling the high-performance coupé to weigh less than 1,450 kilograms.

Its intended selling point as a luxury sports car was not hindered by the car’s powerful exterior: the BMW M8 radiates timeless elegance, and the modifications fit seamlessly into the overall image of a large sports coupé, reinforcing the impression of an almost production-ready M automobile.

It‘s the luxurious elegance combined with genuine M performance that links the E31 BMW M8 prototype with its rightful heir, the BMW M8 F92 from 2019. Both share avant-garde aesthetics and the unrivalled combination of luxury feeling with motorsport performance. The BMW M8 replaces the almost archaic V12 with an ultra-modern BMW M TwinPower Turbo 8-cylinder petrol engine with 460 kW (625 hp). However, the most important feature the two cars share has remained: the BMW M8 receives BMW M’s most powerful engine – but this time it is going into series production.