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BMW M8: body styles, V8 engine and trims
The BMW M8 is the top-tier sports model of the 8 Series, produced since 2019. We look at how the coupé, Gran Coupé and convertible differ, what tech lies under the hood and what to check when buying a used M8.
The M8 in brief
The M8 is the M Division's take on the 8 Series, featuring a powerful V8 engine, all-wheel drive and a significantly upgraded chassis. It's a luxurious grand tourer that needs to be both comfortable and incredibly fast.
The model comes in three body styles: the two-door coupé (F92), the four-door Gran Coupé (F93) and the convertible (F91). All share the 8 Series platform but have a unique M look and technical details.
Trims — what's the difference
There are two main variants — the M8 and the more powerful M8 Competition. The Competition version boasts higher output, with its suspension and electronics tuned even more firmly.
The coupé is the lightest and most sporty, the Gran Coupé is more practical with four doors and greater rear-seat comfort, while the convertible offers open-top driving but is heavier. In the newer versions post-facelift, the headlights, interior details and infotainment system have been updated.
Engines and transmissions
All M8s come with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine (S63). The standard version's power output is around 600 hp, while the Competition hits around 625 hp.
The transmission is an 8-speed automatic M Steptronic, and the drivetrain is the M xDrive all-wheel system with the option to select rear-wheel drive mode. It allows for both safe driving and sporty behaviour.
What to check when buying a used M8
You need to scrutinize the history of such a car: request the full BMW service history, check if all updates have been carried out and if there are no previous accidents. The asking prices can be high, so every detail needs to be checked.
Inspect the engine and cooling system for leaks, as powerful turbo engines require meticulous maintenance. Check that all driving modes work and that there are no error messages.
Pay attention to the wheels, brakes (especially ceramic ones, if fitted) and tyres — replacement can be expensive. In a convertible, check the roof operation.
Versions and bodies
The equipment varies by market and selected packages; we list the most commonly encountered variants.
M8 Coupé (F92)
from 2019The sportiest two-door coupe.
- 4.4-litre V8, around 600 hp
- All-wheel drive M xDrive
- Often — M Sport seats and a wide choice of packages
M8 Competition Coupé
from 2019A more powerful and tightly controlled coupe.
- Around 625 hp
- Often — M Carbon package
- Often — M Driver's Package
M8 Gran Coupé (F93)
from 2020Four-door version with more space in the rear.
- Four doors and a longer wheelbase, more space in the rear
- Often — luxurious leather upholstery
- Often — high-end sound system
M8 Competition Cabrio (F91)
from 2019Convertible with a fabric roof.
- Retractable fabric roof
- Often — heated seats and neck area
- Heavier than the coupe, but still sporty
Body style comparison
| Coupé | Gran Coupé | Cabrio | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For spirited driving | For luxury and four passengers | For open-top motoring |
| Number of doors | 2 | 4 | 2 |
| Most commonly, coupés | 20 col. | 20 col. | 20 col. |
| Engine | 4.4-litre V8 | 4.4-litre V8 | 4.4-litre V8 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
For driving pleasure, the coupé is best. For the family or comfort, go for the Gran Coupé. The convertible is ideal for those who prioritise open-top driving over maximum sportiness.
Pros
- Extremely high power and acceleration
- Luxurious, comfortable interior
- All-wheel drive with adjustable character
- Striking appearance
Cons
- High purchase price and expensive maintenance
- High fuel consumption
- Expensive tyres and brakes
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the M8 and M8 Competition?
The Competition has more power and a firmer suspension and electronics. The difference is less noticeable in daily driving, but more apparent on the track and in dynamic driving.
Is the M8 suitable for daily driving?
Yes, it's more comfortable and practical than most sports cars, especially the Gran Coupé. However, you need to consider fuel consumption and expensive maintenance.
What to check when buying a used M8?
Service history, updates performed, cooling system, condition of brakes and tyres, and whether there have been any previous accidents.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
