In the early 1990s, BMW considered selling an M8: A monstrously powerful variation of the original 8-series, fitted with a 6.0-liter V-12 that would have made around 550 horsepower, channeling its power to the rear wheels through a manual gearbox. But alas, the car was never made; BMW went for the 380-horsepower 850 CSi instead.

Now, finally, the time for an M8 has come: This is the prototype of the upcoming production car, based on the regular 8-series – a car previewed by the Concept 8 series at the Concorso d’Eleganza on Lake Como two days ago.

Unlike the Como concept, this prototype is entirely covered with camouflage stickers, but we can see enough: M mirrors, large spoilers, fat tires, four round exhaust tips – and huge air intakes.

The M8 will be closely related to the M5 – and thus powered by the M GmbH’s next-gen 4.4-liter, twin-turbocharged V-8 that will make north of 600 horsepower. It will be mated to an 8-speed automatic. All-wheel drive will be standard, although a rear-wheel drive only mode is included.

BMW M8

BMW will make a racing version of the new M8, called the M8 GTE. It will be shown before the end of the year.

The new M8 prototype was unveiled at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring. But a car that we crave just as much was exhibited at Lago di Como on this very day: The original M8 prototype.

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2 COMMENTS

  1. I appreciate the return to the 8er naming but this all seems just marketing BS so far .. its nothing more than an evolved 6er coupe ..and using the upcoming M5 internals clearly shows its not a very special car nor new model .. just some name change .

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