A 1990 BMW E31 8 Series Coupe, specifically the 850i model, had its original 5.0-liter V12 M70 engine replaced with an S62B50 from the BMW E39 M5, maintaining a similar capacity but with four fewer cylinders.
This naturally aspirated engine now produces 420 horsepower, sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Manhart created an equally dramatic sound with a new stainless steel sports exhaust system.
The BMW E31, already a highly desirable coupe, now rides on Manhart Concave One double-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels, sized 9×20 at the front and 10.5×20 at the rear, with Continental Sport Contact 7 tires of 255/30R20 and 295/25R20, respectively.
The German tuner also upgraded the braking system with four-piston fixed calipers and perforated 350-millimeter brake discs on the front axle.
The car, now called the MH8 by Manhart, sits lower thanks to H&R lowering springs combined with Bilstein B6 shock absorbers. All underpinnings, such as axles and bearings, were upgraded or replaced.
To complement the performance upgrades, Manhart gave the car a more aggressive look with fresh paint and beefier front and rear skirts from the 850 CSi. M exterior mirrors and an aerodynamic spoiler lip on the trunk lid complete the transformation. Despite the visual changes, the car maintains a low profile until the V8 roars to life.
Inside, Manhart reupholstered the front and rear seats, door and side panels, dashboard, and center console in leather and Alcantara with contrasting stitching.
Manhart spent three years building this limited-run BMW MH8, which has only 23,225 kilometers (14,431 miles) on the clock. It’s currently for sale in Germany for 149,000 euros, or $162,017.