FILTER BY STYLE
Updated on: October 6, 2020
Automotive Journalist
In the year 2018, the world was re-introduced to the 8-Series after it was initially shut down way back in 1999. The 8-Series is now the top-dog of the BMW lineup. The top of the line is undoubtedly the M8 Competition which has an engine upgrade and a wider body compared to other 8 Series offerings. From a design point of view, the M850i Convertible looks massive and has all the right lines in all the right places.
The convertible stands out with its aggressive stance and symmetrical lines which add to the charisma and exquisite looks. The large signature kidney grills post-reveal received a ton of negative criticism. Whereas if you look at it in person, it’s an entirely different scenario. The large grills give the M850i that character which differentiates it from the crowd. The lines around the grill and the entire design make the front even more aggressive. Drive it down the street and you might turn a few heads.
See detailed review »Beautiful Design
Excellent Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Maneuverability
Uncomfortable Rear Seats
Updated design
$121400
2dr Convertible
4
AWD
268 cu.in.
523 hp @ 5500 rpm
553 lbs.-ft. @ 1800 rpm
8-Speed Sport Automatic
Unibody
Independent front double wishbone suspension
Independent rear multi-link suspension
111.1 in.
64.6 in.
74.9 in.
53 in.
4736 lbs.
5 in.
12.4 cu ft.
772 lbs.
3.8 sec.
12.7 sec.
18/25/20 mpg
450 mi.
4 yr. /50000 mi.
4 yr./ 50000 mi.
12 yr. /unlimited
4 yr. /unlimited
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Pricing And Features
Engine And Performance
Fuel Economy
Interior
Exterior
Safety
Competition
Final Verdict
9.1
OVERALL RATING
$121,400
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
xDrive 2dr Convertible AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) | Starting at $121,400 MSRP | (18/20/25) | 341 hp @ 5400 rpm, V-8, Twin turbo premium unleaded | 8-speed Sport Automatic | all wheel drive | 4 |
Overall Rating
The 8-series has replaced the ongoing BMW 6-series, which has now been discontinued. The 8-series is the bigger and badder version of the 6-series. The mammoth like dimensions of the M850i is paired with a performance engine, it’s a GT that isn’t shy of power under the hood. The 4.4 Litre engine gives it ample Horses to run at high speeds effortlessly. The huge size of the M850i doesn’t compromise on the maneuverability of the vehicle and it does part a sense of reliability.
The M850i stands heavy at a curb weight of almost 4,736 pounds but doesn’t feel as heavy when you push the throttle down. The acceleration is quick to respond and doesn’t feel laggy at any point. The X-drive is extremely useful as it makes the car fun to drive and attack corners or straights all the same.
The M850i is paired with a soft-top convertible that can be opened and closed by long-pressing the lock button on the key. If you wish to drop-top while cruising it’s possible till the speeds of 30MPH. The transition would take about 15-seconds. Personally, I’d never pull the top up, except during rains, obviously.
9.9/10
Pricing and Features
9.0/10
Engine and Performance
8.0/10
Fuel Economy
9.0/10
Interior
9.0/10
Exterior
9.9/10
Safety
9.0/10
Competition
9.1/10
Final Verdict
The Convertible is available in a single trim with majority standard features except a few which are available as add-ons.
Trim |
BMW M850i Convertible |
---|---|
MSRP (AWD) |
$121,400 |
Key Features |
Active Kidney Grille |
|
Sport Exhaust System |
|
M-Sport Differential & Brakes |
|
Double-wishbone multi-link aluminum front suspension |
|
xDrive all-wheel-drive system |
|
BMW Laserlight technology |
|
Instrument panel with Nappa Leather finish |
Harman Kardon Surround Sound Audio System, 408-watt amplifier, 12-speaker system (5 tweeters, 5 midrange speakers and 2 bass speakers) |
|
|
Ground-illuminating lights in the exterior door handle |
We Recommend
There are a few additional features like the Drivers Assistance Package, Neck Warmer, and Individual Black Piano Finish would make the car even better. The Harman-Kardon Speakers can be upgraded to Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System would be a good addition as well. The Convertible is a really impressive vehicle with a lot to offer. The vehicle is sure to be an eye-catcher. The drive and performance are exceptionally brilliant.
The M850i is placed between the 840i and the M8 and the performance is also on similar middle ground. Under the hood is the beautiful and powerful 4.4 Litre Twin-Turbocharged V8 which is quick on its feet. The Engine is loud, crisp with sounds that might drown out well-known muscle cars.
On a side note; Hey Mustang Eco-boost, what’s up? The 8-speed auto transmission feels smooth and performs well in all the drive modes. Even in Sports Plus mode, the keeps up with the power and performance delivery of this outstanding V8.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$121,400 |
$127,900 |
$126,845 |
$184,650 |
$117,500 |
Engine |
4.4-L Premium V8 |
4.0-L Premium V8 |
5.0L V8 Intercooled Supercharger |
5.2L FSI V10 |
3.0L Twin-Turbo Flat-Six |
Drivetrain | AWD | RWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
7-Speed Auto-Shift Manual w/OD and Auto-Manual |
8-Speed Automatic |
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
8-Speed Dual-Clutch PDK Automatic |
Power |
523hp@5,500rpm | 469hp@6,000rpm | 575hp@6,500rpm | 562hp@6,000rpm | 379hp@6,500rpm |
Torque |
553lb-ft@1,800rpm | 465lb-ft@1,700rpm | 516lb-ft@3,500rpm | 403lb-ft@2,400rpm | 331lb-ft@3,200rpm |
The Audi R8 gets the biggest engine out of all these bad-ass performers. But the S63 AMG is hands down the most powerful out of the lot. Then again there would be some discrepancies when a Sports/GT goes up against an all-out sports performer.
The BMW S63 engine is the one that BMW has tried, tested and perfected. The V8 applied in the M850i Convertible is a result of the s63 lineage. The V8 can propel the M850i Convertible from a stand-still to 60MPH in just 3.8 seconds which isn’t shabby considering the size and weight of the car. The Convertible is limited to a top speed of 155MPH due to safety concerns but it’s a decent top speed for convertible standards.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
3.8 sec |
3.7 sec |
3.5 sec |
3.3 sec |
4.2 sec |
Quarter Mile |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
11.5 sec |
12.7 sec |
Top Speed | 161 MPH(est) | 189 MPH | 200 MPH | 200 MPH | 190 MPH |
Engine |
4.4-L Premium V8 |
4.0-L Premium V8 |
5.0L V8 Intercooled Supercharger |
5.2L FSI V10 |
3.0L Twin-Turbo Flat-Six |
The Audi has all other contenders beat once again, the times are impressive when compared to the BMW. The Beemer performance falls between the Mercedes AMG GT and S 63 AMG.
The M-Brakes that are standard on the M850i Convertible are pure performance-oriented brakes. The carbon-ceramic 4 piston fixed caliper disc brakes in the front and the single-piston floating caliper vented disc brakes at the rear are responsive and capable enough. The electronic brakes setting in the M-brakes is kind of messy and jerky. Apart from that, the brakes have enough braking power to control the M850i well.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Rotors Front |
N/A |
14.2" |
15" |
14.4" |
13.8" |
Brake Rotors Rear |
N/A |
14.2" |
15" |
14.0" |
13.8" |
Curb Weight |
4736 lbs |
3516 lbs |
3792 lbs |
3572 lbs |
3614 lbs |
60-0 MPH |
N/A |
96 ft |
102 ft |
97 ft |
97 ft |
The Comparison data for the BMW isn’t available yet but we can be certain that the M-brakes will perform fairly well and might just be better than a few. But with the existing data, the AMG GT is one that takes the cake.
The M850i Convertible feels very sturdy and reliable while driving. It’s very nimble and agile for a car of this size. The specialty of the X-Drive allows the rear wheels of the M850i Convertible to steer in the opposite direction while turning at low speeds. At high speeds, though it turns in the direction of the steer, the differentials transfer more power to the wheels on the inside for increased grip on corners.
The AWD or the X-Drive is biased towards the rear wheels and you can feel the difference while turning a corner at high speed. The M-Suspension is excellent none the less. The M850i Convertible handles very similarly its sibling M850i X-Drive Coupe where BMW claims the convertible is merely 2% less sturdy when compared to the coupe. This is enough to understand the kind of drivability the M850i Convertible provides even with the roof down.
In Sports or Sports Plus mode you can feel the engine letting out its true potential. The Convertible becomes faster, handles better and the engine roar is louder. The thrill you get with the launch control is exhilarating! The Beemer just gushes past everything and everything around turns blurry. It’s a car with multiple personalities to suit your mood for the drive. You can be cruising on a sunny day with the roof down one second in comfort mode. Switch to Sports mode the next second and you have an angry BMW Beast ready to spit out the power you’d need a few seconds to comprehend.
The BMW is efficient enough considering the curb weight and the massive 4.4L V8 engine. The tank can store 18 gallons of fuel. In the city conditions, the BMW returns about 17 miles per gallon which is a pretty good number considering the vehicle we are talking about here. On a highway, it's a different story though, 26 miles per gallon is an efficient number figure. Being a Grand Tourer you wouldn’t want to have frequent stops at the fuel station.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG S 63 Cabriolet |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (City) |
17 |
15 |
16 |
16 |
13 |
20 |
MPG (Highway) |
26 |
24 |
22 |
24 |
20 |
26 |
MPG (Combined) |
20 |
18 |
18 |
18 |
16 |
23 |
Fuel Capacity |
18.0 gallons |
21.1 gallons |
19.8 gallons |
18.5 gallons |
21.1 gallons |
17.6 gallons |
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) |
306/450/360 miles |
317/436/379 miles |
317/436/356 miles |
296/444/333 miles |
274/422/337 miles |
317/405/404 miles |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/yr) |
N/A |
9.8 |
9.3 |
9.2 |
7.4 |
Looking at the efficiency figures available it's no surprise that the BMW stands to be most efficient. In this particular aspect, the BMW is the winner and no other vehicle would provide the kind of fuel efficiency that the M850i Convertible gives be it Sports Oriented or GT or a GT Sport.
The interior of the M850i Convertible doesn't feel like its the top of the line offering. The build quality is great and the materials used in the interior are of high quality. The interior is reminiscent of the first generation 8 series. The interior design is the basic BMW design style which is premium and minimalistic at its best.
There are a few changes in the interior when compared to the other offerings of the BMW line up and yet it remains the signature BMW. Multiple layers of fabric on the soft top helps reduce the cabin noise. With the roof up the cabin is very quiet, except for the sound of the engine if you floor the pedal.
The front of the BMW is very spacious and can accommodate even the tallest of the drivers or passengers. The front seats are comfortable and hug your torso in well giving you the entire support you’d need once the car takes off. The seat is entirely electronically controlled allowing you to best adjust the seating position. The lumbar support is adjustable and very comfortable as well. On the contrary, the rear seats can't even accommodate teenagers adequately. To get into the rear seats you’d have to pull a rope behind the headrest of the front seats. After the seats fold down, the seat then electronically moves ahead giving you the space to get in the back.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG S 63 Cabriolet |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Seating Capacity |
4 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
4 |
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
38.9/57.2/42.1 |
37.7/59.0/ N/A |
39.5/N/A/N/A |
37.0/56.5/43.0 |
N/A |
N/A |
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
38.9/45.7/29.5 |
37.7/49.5/ N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The BMW can be considered a 2 seater as the rear seats are redundant. The Mercedes S63 AMG, on the contrary, has better seating and comfort for the rear passengers.
There is a lot going on the interior of the M850i Convertible some of the features or the eye-grabbing aspects are.
In the center console rests the 10” inch Infotainment system which is very interactive. It comes with Apple CarPlay and doesn’t support Android Auto. You might have to switch your Android phone to Apple if you want to connect your phone to the Infotainment System. The Console can be controlled through the dial given at the base of the console or with a touch. For improved driver functionality, it supports hand gestures that enhance your overall experience.
The 12” Instrument cluster could have been better. The backlight is dim and it is difficult to make out on a sunny day. The digital animations on the RPM gauge take the natural feel away. From the Infotainment perspective, BMW is feature-rich.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG S 63 Cabriolet |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Capacity |
12.4 cu.ft. |
6.9 cu.ft. |
5.8 cu.ft. |
7.3 cu.ft. |
4.0 cu.ft. |
4.7 cu.ft. |
The M850i Convertible provides enough cargo space in spite of being a convertible. Foldable rear seats also provide extra storage space, which might be very useful if you have pets.
The Designers at BMW deserve a round of applause for this immaculate piece of art. The M850i Convertible is the perfect blend of Luxury and Muscle. The lines are sharp, crisp and well-aligned. The body is very proportionate even though it has a lengthy demeanor. From the front, the M850i looks like an angry beast because of the kidney grills, air vents, and the Laser UID headlights. The headlights do give it that extra mean-looking front. It has a wide stance but is still low slung. The silhouette of the convertible and the coupe are very similar.
Model |
BMW M850i Convertible |
Mercedes AMG S 63 Cabriolet |
Mercedes AMG GT Convertible |
Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible |
Audi R8 Spyder |
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Convertible |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Curb Weight |
4736 lbs |
4888 lbs |
3516 lbs |
3792 lbs |
3572 lbs |
3614 lbs |
Length |
191.2" |
198.9" |
179.0" |
176.2" |
174.3" |
177.9" |
Width |
84.1" |
74.8" |
76.3" |
74.2" |
76.4" |
72.9" |
Height |
53.0" |
55.6" |
49.6" |
51.5" |
49.0" |
51.1" |
Ground Clearance |
4.6" |
N/A |
3.8" |
4.2" |
6.3" |
N/A |
Wheelbase |
111.1" |
115.9" |
103.5" |
103.2" |
104.3" |
96.5" |
The rear of the M850i Convertible has a quad exhaust layout that sits subtly beneath the slim taillights. The slim taillight design is a fresh look which is the 8 series has received. There are a couple of vents between the exhaust and the taillights help with the aerodynamics.
There are more than a few features on the exterior.
Currently, the BMW M850i is yet to receive ratings from NHTSA. But it’s none the less loaded with safety features to ensure the driver and passengers safety. The chassis of the M850i is based on the BMW CLAR ( Cluster Architecture ) platform which has been used in the 5,6,7, X & Z series. The chassis is a mixture of aluminum, steel and carbon fiber. All the vehicles from BMW that share the same CLAR platform have received a minimum of 4 NHTSA Rating. We could expect the 8 series to fare similarly in future tests. In the meantime let's take a look at the safety features offered by BMW.
The indecisive battle between BMW and Mercedes has been raging since the beginning of time itself. The M850i Convertible drives well has better handling and shines on the track. The same can be said about the AMG though.
The M850i provides a thrilling ride experience whereas the AMG has better rear seats to offer. The BMW is fairly cost-effective in terms of MSRP and Fuel Efficiency. But in the end, it all boils down to which badge you’d prefer to see in your drive-way.
The AMG has a very refined engine and yet fails to beat the M850i in terms of acceleration. The beemer has the AMG beat in terms of seating capacity.
If we consider fuel efficiency the Beemer is in a class of its own. But the AMG is a true Performance-Oriented Vehicle. If a tourer is what you’re in the market for the M850i Convertible would be a better option.
The BMW outperforms the F-Type in every aspect possible. The BMW takes points for design, comfort, cargo storage while the Jag is quicker off the line.
The Jag is around 1000 pounds lighter than the Beemer. But then again the luxury on offer on the BMW is a class apart. From a design point of view, the BMW has the Jag beat.
You know the playground is not level when you compare a supercar with a luxury GT. The R8 performs better than the BMW in terms of engine performance and it's not a surprise.
The BMW retaliates with its functionality, comfort and fresh design. The R8 also loses its rear-wheel-drive in 2020 which might disappoint a few people.
Surprisingly the BMW has the Porsche 911 Carrera beat by a landslide. The 911 falls short on performance or ride quality expectations perceived from a Porsche.
The 911 does cost less when compared to BMW. The winner here clearly is BMW. Be it straights, corners or just a cruise the BMW is sure to give you a thrill.
The M850i Convertible is an exceptional performer. The Drive modes have been tuned to provide the best drive that you could ask for. The fuel efficiency is exceptional in its segment and it could probably make it your everyday driver. The cost for the M850i Convertible is fair considering the performance, design, luxury and driving experience.
Car Name | Deals | Starting Price | Number of Listings |
---|---|---|---|
2020 BMW M850i Convertible | 0 | $89,899 | 4 Listings |
2020 BMW M850i Convertible | 0 | $121,400 | 1 Listings |