The new BMW 8 Series Convertible was revealed as recently as the start of November 2018, but the local arm of the Munich-based brand has already published pricing on its website.
Expected to arrive in South Africa late in the first quarter of 2019, only the M850i xDrive derivative will – initially, at least – be offered locally (the 840d xDrive is not destined for SA shores).
So, how much cash are you looking at? Well, BMW SA’s configurator lists a price of R2 009 860. A spot of rudimentary maths shows this makes the soft-top some R122 033 more expensive than the coupé.
For the record, this derivative features a twin-turbo 4,4-litre V8 that sends 390 kW and 750 N.m to all four corners, which in this instance allows a claimed 0-100 km/h dash in 3,9 seconds (two-tenths up on the coupé’s time) and a top speed of 250 km/h.
An eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission comes standard, as do mixed tyres and adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers.
The four-seater 8 Series Convertible measures 4 843 mm long, 1 902 mm wide and 1 339 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2 822 mm, meaning its exterior dimensions closely match those of its hardtop sibling. Convertible-specific measures include additional cross struts, a specifically designed shear panel for the underbody and a rollover protection system.
The electronically operated soft-top will ship standard in black, but will also be available in Anthracite Silver effect as an option. It opens and closes at the touch of a button in 15 seconds, and can be operated at speeds up to 50 km/h. When open, the soft-top stows under a cover with a surface structure and stitching matching that of the instrument panel and interior door trim.
