The BMW 850 CI is part of the first generation of the 8 Series, which was built from 1989 to 1999 as the E31. This model marks a pivotal point in BMW's history, showcasing the peak of technology and design during those years. The BMW 850 CI was designed by Klaus Kapitza and included numerous technical innovations, such as four-wheel steering and optionally an electronically controlled damping system. The car is powered by a 5.0-liter V12 engine producing 300 horsepower, controlled by a dual-channel engine management system. At the time, it was one of the most expensive vehicles on the German market, with a base price of over 100,000 Deutsche Marks.
An interesting aspect is that the BMW 850 CI was introduced during an era of technological and political changes. For instance, its production coincided with the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War. In terms of music, Madonna's famous album "Like a Prayer" was also released in 1989. Such events help situate the car within its historical context and significance.
The showcased model is a 1/18 replica of the BMW 850 CI manufactured by Revell. It accurately portrays all the distinctive features of the original, including the aerodynamic structure and the iconic kidney grille design. Made from a mix of materials, it combines durability with intricate detailing. Notable features include functioning doors and detailed headlights that mirror the original's distinctive design. The model car is painted in a red color very close to the original shade, featuring all the specific elements such as the BMW badge and the model inscription "BMW 850 CI."
The BMW 850 CI was a trailblazer in many technical aspects. A notable feature was the introduction of an electronically controlled automatic transmission, which was an innovation at the time, enhancing power transmission and overall performance. The integrated driving assistance systems set new standards for future vehicle developments. Also worth mentioning is the collaboration with Alpina, a renowned tuner that offered various performance levels for the 850 CI. Alpina was founded in 1965 in Buchloe, Germany, known for its high-quality vehicle modifications.
The model showcased by Modelly member "Kristian" exemplifies the practicality and collector's quality of model vehicles. It is crafted in a scaled size of 1/18, meaning that every detail of the original is scaled down by a factor of 18. This allows model enthusiasts to preserve the exquisite craftsmanship and design of the historic BMW 850 CI in their collections. The small size of the model accurately depicts the iconic headlights, which lie flat within the vehicle body when parked. Such attention to detail makes it particularly valuable for collectors.