[Dutt1113]

I know this is an 8 series forum so its gonna be biased. I was wondering if you guys think a 20-21 M850i is still a good used car option in 2024. For the price with the options/features it has, is there anything else newer that would be worth getting over it. I currently have a 2018 M550i loaded so I was looking into a 21 m850i GC or a 23 M340i. I know the m850 is more luxurious there's no question there, but the new m340i is going to be more sporty/fun to drive with the latest tech. Both are roughly around the same price range. Another option would maybe be a 21 m550 LCI. I'd get the newer engine, front end, and tech including id7 and cluster, but the rest would be the same. Not sure I would want something so similar for several more years.

[Seaford]

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

I know this is an 8 series forum so its gonna be biased. I was wondering if you guys think a 20-21 M850i is still a good used car option in 2024. For the price with the options/features it has, is there anything else newer that would be worth getting over it. I currently have a 2018 M550i loaded so I was looking into a 21 m850i GC or a 23 M340i. I know the m850 is more luxurious there's no question there, but the new m340i is going to be more sporty/fun to drive with the latest tech. Both are roughly around the same price range. Another option would maybe be a 21 m550 LCI. I'd get the newer engine, front end, and tech including id7 and cluster, but the rest would be the same. Not sure I would want something so similar for several more years.

I came from a fully loaded 2019 330i to a fully loaded 2020 840GC - they are chalk and cheese in terms of comfort and build quality/materials (I have Nappa leather). The cockpit technology/toys is almost identical but the 840 is simply a much, much nicer place to be.

As it should be for the price difference…..

[ElloM8]

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

I know this is an 8 series forum so its gonna be biased. I was wondering if you guys think a 20-21 M850i is still a good used car option in 2024. For the price with the options/features it has, is there anything else newer that would be worth getting over it. I currently have a 2018 M550i loaded so I was looking into a 21 m850i GC or a 23 M340i. I know the m850 is more luxurious there's no question there, but the new m340i is going to be more sporty/fun to drive with the latest tech. Both are roughly around the same price range. Another option would maybe be a 21 m550 LCI. I'd get the newer engine, front end, and tech including id7 and cluster, but the rest would be the same. Not sure I would want something so similar for several more years.

Likely to find a lot of bias here for sure. That said, I think I'm pretty impartial as cars go. In fact, I'm probably more bias against the BMW if anything. I had and E46 that looked unbelievable but had far too many issues. This is the first BMW I've had since...

So far, I really like the 850i (2020 850i GC). Love the ride and since I was able to tune it, It's a lot more fun to drive. Unfortunately, I had to tune my car just to get standard 0-60 times out of it. I live at 4500ft above sea level. It's just sooo painful. If I keep it for more than 5 years I can see swapping/updating the leather seats since they do what leather does. I have to admit, I would rather have pleather. It just holds up to the test of time so much better.

[NGT2]

Looking forward to reading more opinions. I have a 2020 M550. I’ve thought about the M850GC and the M340i, also. I think I ruled out the 3. Too much step down in materials and luxury and also my test of an M440 coupe tells me that while it’s very fun, the B58 is going to have me missing my V8 too often. Had some good wheel time with a 840GC and love the exterior style, the ride, and the interior design and materials. I could definitely see an M850GC being next.

For the record, I love my M550. So much that I, like you, have also strongly considered that maybe hanging on and then buying a 2022-2023 as CPO down the road might just be the most suitable next move.

[snowbimmer]

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

I know this is an 8 series forum so its gonna be biased. I was wondering if you guys think a 20-21 M850i is still a good used car option in 2024. For the price with the options/features it has, is there anything else newer that would be worth getting over it. I currently have a 2018 M550i loaded so I was looking into a 21 m850i GC or a 23 M340i. I know the m850 is more luxurious there's no question there, but the new m340i is going to be more sporty/fun to drive with the latest tech. Both are roughly around the same price range. Another option would maybe be a 21 m550 LCI. I'd get the newer engine, front end, and tech including id7 and cluster, but the rest would be the same. Not sure I would want something so similar for several more years.

Originally Posted by NGT2

Looking forward to reading more opinions. I have a 2020 M550. I’ve thought about the M850GC and the M340i, also. I think I ruled out the 3. Too much step down in materials and luxury and also my test of an M440 coupe tells me that while it’s very fun, the B58 is going to have me missing my V8 too often. Had some good wheel time with a 840GC and love the exterior style, the ride, and the interior design and materials. I could definitely see an M850GC being next.

For the record, I love my M550. So much that I, like you, have also strongly considered that maybe hanging on and then buying a 2022-2023 as CPO down the road might just be the most suitable next move.

Well you two, I love my M850. I may have heartily expressed my opinion in this thread today. Happy 2 year birthday
https://f92.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2098241

Liking my M550 so much made the M850 seem like a no-brainer.

And TWO-BMW - you're gonna love it

[NGT2]

Originally Posted by snowbimmer

Well you two, I love my M850. I may have heartily expressed my opinion in this thread today. Happy 2 year birthday
https://f92.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2098241

Liking my M550 so much made the M850 seem like a no-brainer.

And TWO-BMW - you're gonna love it

Great thread and congrats on two years with a great car! I actually did a 1,500 mile trip, solo, in my M550 a couple months ago. Small potatoes for you but the longest road trip I’ve ever done. Can’t wait to do another. The M550 was flawless. You mentioned the only other car you could do 500 miles in and get out feeling fresh was the M550. I agree. It’s pretty strong for you to say the M850 isn’t just as good but is better. I definitely feel like I’m zeroing in on the next choice, whether it comes sooner or quite later.

[TupperBMW]

I’ve owned my M850i and an M340i. My take:

M340i may be more nimble and “sporty”, but the M850i wins in all other categories:

1. Luxury
2. Looks
3. V8 + power
4. Sound
5. Speed (although the M340i is still plenty fast)

The M850i is a great GT car. And despite its size and weight, with RAS it still handles remarkably well. Not as sporty as the 3 series for sure, but in my case I wouldn’t go back

[Rob_G77]

The M850i is a great car in spite of its substantial depreciation. My opinion is that at a certain point these cars will actually start holding value and certainly be in more demand by those that want a more traditional BMW interior and not the big LCD they have going on now.

I certainly would have kept mine if the ownership experience hadn't been such an absolute trainwreck. It was just so much bad luck.

Rob

[Gr8 Ape]

Maybe late to this party, but I just traded in a 2018 M550i for a low mileage 2021 M850i coupe. I really enjoyed the M550, but wanted something a little sportier. Admittedly, I gave up 2 doors (I felt the gran coupe was a bit larger than I wanted), but am otherwise very pleased. I have nothing but good things to say about the M550, but the newer N63 motor and the aesthetic appeal of the M850 won me over. Both great cars.

[NGT2]

Originally Posted by Gr8 Ape

Maybe late to this party, but I just traded in a 2018 M550i for a low mileage 2021 M850i coupe. I really enjoyed the M550, but wanted something a little sportier. Admittedly, I gave up 2 doors (I felt the gran coupe was a bit larger than I wanted), but am otherwise very pleased. I have nothing but good things to say about the M550, but the newer N63 motor and the aesthetic appeal of the M850 won me over. Both great cars.

How do you find the transition to those seats? That’s my biggest hesitation in going 550 to 850.

[Gr8 Ape]

I liked the M550 seats, but the M850 seats are just as comfortable and have more functionality. In saying this, I’m used to higher performance (viz., maybe less comfortable) seats, although my aging butt may tend to disagree. YMMV.

[Velvet Fog]

The only problem with the M850GC is that is has too many doors. My only experience with other current BMW models is as loaners when I have my car detailed or in for maintenance. There's a song that says "You dont realize what you've got till its gone". So true.

Coupe life yo.

[NGT2]

Originally Posted by Velvet Fog

The only problem with the M850GC is that is has too many doors. My only experience with other current BMW models is as loaners when I have my car detailed or in for maintenance. There's a song that says "You dont realize what you've got till its gone". So true.

Coupe life yo.

I typically have the same experience with loaners. Fun to check out a different model. 330’s are fun, like having a go kart for a day. Then appreciate your ride even more. My recent 840GC loaner was an exception. Definitely was glad to have my comfortable seat and my V8 back, but I really liked the ride and “cockpit” vibe of driving the 8. Made me want one.

[Dutt1113]

OP here. Just elaborating more on my original thoughts. I currently have my 2018 M550 loaded with leather dash, alcantara headliner, and Bowers Wilkins audio and ACC, etc. I've been looking mainly at 2020 M850 GC's because Bower's Wilkins audio is actually available. 2021's must've had BW audio option cut along with the ECU's being unflashable. I don't see a 2021 making sense with no BW audio and paying more money for a newer car on paper, when I can get a low mileage 2020 with BW audio. Also, I'm not paying $3k+ for Femto unlock + tune overseas on a 21 when Dinan flash is like $800 for 2020's.

I've thought about a 2021 M550 as replacement for my 2018. I'd be getting the newer 523hp engine, newer front end and headlights, newer dash cluster and bigger nav screen. The rest of the car is the same and not sure I want that for another 4 years, the amount of time I generally want a different car.

I've thought about a 2023 m340 as well. It is the most modern with the newest tech and big screens, but like others have said, its too much of a material downgrade from my m550.

I've looked at 2021 Audi S6 Prestige. I feel it has the best interior out of all these options, but is also a lot cheaper. About $5-6K cheaper vs a 1yr older 2020 loaded m850. The only downfall I see is it "only" has a v6. It has the RS5 engine with electric turbo spool and is a bit down on power. With a tune, it wakes the car up to stock m850i power, which would be plenty fast. The S7 I crossed off the list because those are the same price or more vs m850i which is bonkers to me. The S6 is better appeal because its value for price.

I know all these options are 3-4 years old, but I can't think of any other newer options that are as nice and offer more or better options than these. Mercedes are all garbage and Porsche Panamera in this price range has a crap interior. I really can't think of anything else to consider.

[Seaford]

Originally Posted by Velvet Fog

The only problem with the M850GC is that is has too many doors. yo.

But it does have back seats that are usable by people aged over two,years

[NGT2]

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

OP here. Just elaborating more on my original thoughts. I currently have my 2018 M550 loaded with leather dash, alcantara headliner, and Bowers Wilkins audio and ACC, etc. I've been looking mainly at 2020 M850 GC's because Bower's Wilkins audio is actually available. 2021's must've had BW audio option cut along with the ECU's being unflashable. I don't see a 2021 making sense with no BW audio and paying more money for a newer car on paper, when I can get a low mileage 2020 with BW audio. Also, I'm not paying $3k+ for Femto unlock + tune overseas on a 21 when Dinan flash is like $800 for 2020's.

I've thought about a 2021 M550 as replacement for my 2018. I'd be getting the newer 523hp engine, newer front end and headlights, newer dash cluster and bigger nav screen. The rest of the car is the same and not sure I want that for another 4 years, the amount of time I generally want a different car.

I've thought about a 2023 m340 as well. It is the most modern with the newest tech and big screens, but like others have said, its too much of a material downgrade from my m550.

I've looked at 2021 Audi S6 Prestige. I feel it has the best interior out of all these options, but is also a lot cheaper. About $5-6K cheaper vs a 1yr older 2020 loaded m850. The only downfall I see is it "only" has a v6. It has the RS5 engine with electric turbo spool and is a bit down on power. With a tune, it wakes the car up to stock m850i power, which would be plenty fast. The S7 I crossed off the list because those are the same price or more vs m850i which is bonkers to me. The S6 is [...]

If you decide you like the 8 series you can also be more patient. They’re still making them. You’ll be able to get one low miles and good condition for years to come. Not the case with the M550.

I’ve seen enough 8’s with Bowers to not make me feel it’s an urgent matter to buy whatever one is available now.

[Dutt1113]

What are people's thoughts on spending $55-60k on a 2020 m850 that is pushing close to 5 years old? On paper to me that sounds kinda old for that price. A 2021 doesn't seem as bad even though 1 year newer because you still potentially have some warranty left with or without CPO. 60k is at the top of my budget and I wanted to have something 3-4 years old max.

[snowbimmer]

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

What are people's thoughts on spending $55-60k on a 2020 m850 that is pushing close to 5 years old? On paper to me that sounds kinda old for that price. A 2021 doesn't seem as bad even though 1 year newer because you still potentially have some warranty left with or without CPO. 60k is at the top of my budget and I wanted to have something 3-4 years old max.

I'd probably consider miles instead of age of the car. These things seem to depreciate about $1.40/mile, or so. Maybe more - it ain't pretty. The miles will be the biggest determinate of value. I will most likely go thru 50k miles by end of year 3 in April 2025. My 4 year warranty (with a year to go) is now worthless at that point. So, even though there is time left on a possible warranty, make sure the miles are low enough to get you there.

You didn't say how many miles were on the 2020. The price seems a bit high, but it may not have a lot of miles.

[Velvet Fog]

Listen to snowbimmer.

I'll add check the carfax and if you know someone at the dealer, have them pull the service history.

[Dutt1113]

Originally Posted by snowbimmer

I'd probably consider miles instead of age of the car. These things seem to depreciate about $1.40/mile, or so. Maybe more - it ain't pretty. The miles will be the biggest determinate of value. I will most likely go thru 50k miles by end of year 3 in April 2025. My 4 year warranty (with a year to go) is now worthless at that point. So, even though there is time left on a possible warranty, make sure the miles are low enough to get you there.

You didn't say how many miles were on the 2020. The price seems a bit high, but it may not have a lot of miles.

The 2020 M850 GC's I look at are between 30-40k miles. Most likely those will all have zero warranty left unless CPO'd which wouldn't give much time to use. The next question then is 2021 m850 vs 2021 m550 lci which offers pretty much all the same luxury and features for about 10k less. Is the price gap worth the extra for the m850's looks? They have the same engine, just different style interior.

[NGT2]

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

The 2020 M850 GC's I look at are between 30-40k miles. Most likely those will all have zero warranty left unless CPO'd which wouldn't give much time to use. The next question then is 2021 m850 vs 2021 m550 lci which offers pretty much all the same luxury and features for about 10k less. Is the price gap worth the extra for the m850's looks? They have the same engine, just different style interior.

I’ve got an M550. After the engine and 0-60 time, I’d say they’re pretty different cars. Looks, interior (especially the seats and driving position), and the way they drive are all different.

I love my M550 and I love the 8 series I got to drive for a week. So both are badass machines. I’d just drive both and you’ll know quickly which is for you or which you want right now.

I shopped 850’s after I had the 840 for a week. I decided to wait another year then consider M850 and F90 again. But the price OP quoted is pretty in line with what I’ve seen.

[Dutt1113]

I might go test drive an LCI m550 to see if the new bells and whistles, engine, and newer looks would be worth it over my loaded 2018. It's hard to find anything else that could replace a pre-LCI m550 besides an LCI because the m550 in general offers so much for the price vs the competition. The build quality and especially the power, no other competitors can even come close. I would like something else to change it up, hence the "upgrade" to m850 which looks nicer and a bit nicer interior. I'd like to hold out on either for a 2021 with Bowers and Wilkins so I don't "downgrade" from mine. However, I have found a potential workaround for a 2021 m550 with HK audio. They make aftermarket Bowers Wilkins metal covers with the lighting. I could then get more bass from maybe some Ghost subwoofers. I'm not an audiophile for clarity, but more bass would we nice and have the look and feel of the oem Bowers Wilkins grilles. I couldn't find anything similar for the 8 series, but if someone knows of a kit I would appreciate it.