To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Miami event, 1 - 2 March 2024.

• One of just 225 sold new to the United States; one of 1,510 total examples
• Superb level of preservation; displays fewer than 19,500 miles at cataloguing
• Powered by a 380-hp S70B56 V-12 mated to a six-speed manual gearbox
• Finished in Hellrot over Nappa Schwartz leather trim
• Rides on staggered-width 17-inch M-System aluminum wheels
• Accompanied by service records, tool kit, and ownership literature

Initially developed to be a standalone product of BMW’s Motorsports division, the E31 850 CSi was the marque’s high-performance flagship model between 1991 and 1996. At its heart is the S70B56 V-12, an incredibly smooth 5.6-liter engine rated by BMW at 380 horsepower. Compared to its originating blueprint found in the “standard” 850, this powerplant featured lighter pistons, a forged crankshaft, upgraded camshafts, retuned intake and exhaust, higher compression, and auxiliary engine coolers. An exclusive engine management system allowed for a gear-dependent variable rev limiter and selectable power maps. Other standout upgrades included a stiffer suspension, distinctive aluminum “throwing star” wheels, upgraded brakes, and a limited-slip differential.

One of just 225 sold new to the United States, the 850 CSi on offer here is presented in the quintessential E31 livery of Hellrot (314) over Nappa Schwartz (0495) leather trim. Optioned with a car phone, six-disc CD changer, lumbar support, multifunction sport steering wheel, and fine wood trim, the car is believed to have spent most of its first decade in California before moving to Pennsylvania. There it would remain in pampered care until the consignor’s acquisition in 2020. In June 2019, the car was treated to an oil change, brake service, new radiator hoses, and a BMW battery by Dempster’s Auto Care of Hatboro, Pennsylvania. Showing an exceptional level of preservation, in addition to a sub-19,500-mile odometer reading at time of cataloguing the car is offered with service documents, tool kit, and ownership literature.

The 850 CSi is without doubt the most exciting and desirable model of the E31 family—the closest the marque ever came to building a true M8. With low mileage and exceptional preservation, the example on offer here provides an ideal path into acquiring one of BMW Motorsports’ finest chapters.

To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mi24.