Despite being an automaker that's long been on the edge of technological progress, BMW is also a brand that is very aware of its heritage. And both of those attributes can be seen in BMW's latest concept car, which debuted recently at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy. Say hello to the Concept 8 Series.
The concept is inspired by BMW coupes of the past, including the original 8 series which was produced between 1989 and 1999 and is considered by many to the one of the most beautiful cars of the 1990s. That means that in terms of both style and performance, the car has some big shoes to fill.
Best of all, the Concept 8 Series wasn't just built for fun. It's a very real preview of an upcoming production model due to launch within the next year, a new flagship which is equal parts sports and luxury.
BMW hasn't released any details about the car's drivetrain, but the original 8 Series included both V8 and V12 options — and rumors suggest the new version will feature turbocharged twin V12 power, along with a twin turbo V8 for the high performance M8 model.
And speaking of the M8, BMW has already confirmed existence in both production and race trim. At the same time the concept was being shown in Italy, a camouflaged prototype of the M8 was shown at the Nürburgring 24 hour race in Germany. Developed alongside the normal 8 Series, the M8 is said to use the new M5's 4.4 liter biturbo V8 making over 600 horsepower along with its advanced AWD system.
On the motorsport side of things, BMW has also announced the development of an M8 GTE race car to spearhead BMW Motorsport's return to Le Mans. The plan is for the M8 GTE to make its debut at next year's Daytona 24 Hour race before attacking Le Mans itself.
Whether it's the stylish luxury coupe, high performance flagship or new race car, we can't wait to see the finished versions of the new BMW 8 Series on the road and the race track. From all accounts it sounds like this will be worthy sequel to one of BMW's all time greats.