[Dutt1113]

I know this is an 8 series forum so it's probably going to be biased a bit. I may get some no brainer comments idk, but I was wondering what your thoughts are on getting a 20 m850 vs 23 m340. I know they are totally opposite ends of the bmw spectrum, but they are around the same price on the used market. The m850 is on slightly "outdated" tech like idrive 7 and the interior design language that came with it. The m340 has the newest design language inside and out with idrive8 and the big single long screen. The m850 is a lot more luxurious and way nicer materials, but the m340 is sportier with brand new tech and design. I'm greatly leaning toward the m850 because of the build quality, looks, and rarity. I'm currently on a '18 m550 with B&W, extended leather, and alcantara headliner, etc so m340 may seem like downgrade in a way. Also, Id8 seems to be a step back in practicality and user preference vs Id7. I here the function is about the same, with id8 just looking more modern.

[Tenac]

Knowing V8's are dying that alone I'd get the 8....

[shawntech]

I went from m340xi 2020 prelci (best year) to m850i convertible. No regrets.

[TupperBMW]

I did the opposite and moved from the M340i to the M850i

They are different leagues from eachother, really. And the V8 is just sweet.

But……….

If you’re into modding, the M850i may disappoint. Exhausts are not easy (or cheap) to get for this car. Already discussed at length in other threads

[Seaford]

Chalk and cheese.

I went from a 330i to an 840gc and there is no comparison in terms of quality of interior and overall experience.

[plutnicki]

I had an 18 M550. I can't help but think moving from that to an M340 would be disappointing. No knock against the M340, it's a great car, and maybe you don't need the extra space, but the M550 is a stellar car and what began my love affair with the BMW's V8. Also, I find the 3s just too small feeling inside. Some people do not.

Also, I'm not a fan of the new single screen dash design language. The M850 interior I think is a generation newer than your M550, so you'd still be moving in the right direction.

That said, the M340 is 3 years newer than the M850, and so that may contribute to a different ownership experience too. But, all else being equal, the 8 is going to be closer to what you are used to than the 3, IMHO.

[Dutt1113]

The other option on my list which was actually #2 behind the m850 was a 2020 Audi S7. The S7 is still no slouch and pretty fast but still a bit down on power although it is around 200 lbs lighter. Could tune it to equal the m850, but tve m850 could also be tuned to 650-680.The s7 interior is arguably nicer and more modern. The exterior is just as nice looking as m850, but lacking the v8 sound. The s7 seems to hold their value better than m850 as they basically the same price on used market for 2020. The '21 S7's are actually more expensive than '21 m850s believe it or not. I don't understand the s7 value on used market, doesnt make anh sense. That's also what makes it a tough sell against m850 and what it offers. If the s7 was quite a bit cheaper to match the power difference then it makes more sense.

[Moopai]

Hi there,

M340 vs M850:

Choosing between the M340 and M850 depends on your preferences and needs.

If you prioritize a sporty sedan with a balance of performance, the M340 might be a better choice. It offers a strong blend of power, handling, and practicality especially if you want to track it. Mind you there are a lot of guys on this forum that are probably tracking their M850.

On the other hand, if you desire a more luxurious and powerful grand coupe with a larger budget, the M850 is the choice. It offers more performance and premium features and it definitely turn heads when driving it. I couldn't believe that until I got mine. To be honest, we are not comparing apples with apples here, it's more apples with oranges or bananas... the M850 is in a different league than the 3 series even the M3. I know the M3 guys would want my head over this comment.


I guess you should consider your driving habits, budget, and desired features to make the right choice for your lifestyle. When I decided to retire my 750ix which was an amazing car and fast like hell for a car that weigh over 2 ton, the M8 and M850 were the choices and I ended up with the M850 as I need a car for daily drive and was worried about the ride comfort coming from a 4 year of driving a 7 series.

M850 vs S7

My advice is if you decide to go with Audi, make sure you buy enough warranty to cover you while driving the car as they are notorious with breakdowns and expensive to fix. I speak from experience through a friend who had an RS5 which he bought after the lease ended, he will never drive another Audi again (at least without warranty).

If I wanted to compare a grand tourer Audi with the M850GC, I would compare it with RS7 even thus it is little faster than the M850. The RS7 is more inline with M850 as you are comparing V8 TT against V8 TT.

I have two questions for you:

1. Have you driven an S7 and an M850? I would start with that and compare the drive and the handling. When I driven my buddy's RS5, my ride at the time was 2008 550 sports. I can tell you there was no comparison between the two, the 550 was a beast, more power and better handling/cornering.
2. Have you used the infotainment system on the Audis? I would recommend comparing it with BMW's iDrive... As far as I'm concerned, there is no comparison... The iDrive is far more superior even with some of its faults.

Just my two cents! Good luck with your search.

Originally Posted by Dutt1113

The other option on my list which was actually #2 behind the m850 was a 2020 Audi S7. The S7 is still no slouch and pretty fast but still a bit down on power although it is around 200 lbs lighter. Could tune it to equal the m850, but tve m850 could also be tuned to 650-680.The s7 interior is arguably nicer and more modern. The exterior is just as nice looking as m850, but lacking the v8 sound. The s7 seems to hold their value better than m850 as they basically the same price on used market for 2020. The '21 S7's are actually more expensive than '21 m850s believe it or not. I don't understand the s7 value on used market, doesnt make anh sense. That's also what makes it a tough sell against m850 and what it offers. If the s7 was quite a bit cheaper to match the power difference then it makes more sense.