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In Reply to: Is 850CSi consider a M class??? posted by ///M2K on March 17, 2000 at 21:37:54:
850CSi a ///M car? I'd have to argue yes. The only aspect it's lacking was being labeled "///M8" from the factory.
Most importantly, it's VIN carries the "WBS" prefix, indicating a Motorsport car. And let's compare it's factory modfications with other factory ///M cars - say E30 M3 since many purists believe this was the only real ///M car.
Modified engine? Yes
850CSi was bumped up to 372HP with adjustable electronic throttle control and gear determined rev limits. But no individual throttle bodies. At the time the engine was developed, it was not possible to combine individual throttle bodies with traction control (which operates in part by backing off throttle when slippage is detected).
Modified suspension? Yes.
850Csi was given lower, firmer springs, sway bars, and larger tires. Plus full ASC+T.
Modified rear axle ratio?
Yes, 850CSi a higher numeric rear axle ratio with 25% limited slip for improved acceleration.
Improved brakes?
Yes. 850CSi was designed with the biggest brakes ever offered on a BMW (345mm front and 328mm rear).
Special aerodynamic body panels?
Yes. Front air dam and rear air diffuser originally specific to the 850CSi. Optional factory rear M Technic wing available.
Raced by factory?
No. This would be the one category where purists have a legitimate argument that the 850CSi doesn't have a racing heritage (like the M1, E30 M3, the E36 M3, and E34 M5 (Supercar series)).
But other than the lack of competition heritage, the 850CSi got all of the factory "///M" goodies and warm-overs that any M car of the past 20 years ever received, and maybe a few extra. So yes, I'd say it can legitmately be called an M car.
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