Klaus Kapitza’s design of the E31 8 Series was able to create one of the most innovative and gorgeous cars ever to come out of BMW’s assembly plant in Dingolfing, Germany. Presented in 1989, the new 8 Series was hailed as one of the finest cars of its time. In its early years, the waiting list for a new 8 Series was two years, a testament to the car’s success. It was so well received that the E31 remained in production for almost 10 years, becoming one of the brand’s most distinctive models.

This lovely example was delivered new to Japan in 1991, where it remained until it was exported to the UK. It was subsequently bought by the consignor and imported to Switzerland in 2017. With its unique styling and high-speed cruising capability, this E31 is perhaps one of the best collectors’ BMWs you can buy at this moment, thanks to BMW’s unveiling of the new G15 8 Series with production and sales beginning late last year. With the combination of the distinctive ‘silky smooth’ 5.0-litre V-12 engine and four-speed automatic transmission, this 850i is ready to bring the thrill of the finest modern motoring in a very contemporary fashion.