[2007 to 2016 M6 Cab]

Originally Posted by brad850csi

The 8 series really is just a rename of the current 6 series, the car is 5 series based and about the same length as the current 6. I think that BMW feel that by calling it an 8 that they will be able to justify the higher price which was something the current generation of 6 struggled with, basically being the same price as the 7 but clearly not designed to be a big cruiser in the same league as the 7 or S Class.

I think that (while I love the E31 and won't sell my 850CSi) history will repeat itself with the E24 and E31. BMW attempt to make it more expensive and demand falls. What they should be doing is a similar price ratio as per the 3 and 4 series. Maybe 5-7% more on top, not 15-20% like it was between the 5 and 6 series.

BMW also struggles with the perception of them not having a real GT. People buy Bentleys, S63/S65 Coupes, DB11s and similar if they want a GT and don't seem to appreciate the current 650i or M6 which both offer similar levels of performance. I suspect their attempt to rename the new 5 series based Coupe as an 8 series will not take any sales from any of those cars.

In regards to a car to take on the 911, the 3/5/7 based cars will never work. They are too front heavy with a layout that just doesn't transform into a real sports car. What would be needed I think is that the new Z4 is limited to inline 6 engines, perhaps all the way up to the top spec S55 or S58 (whatever is available and current as an M spec inline 6) Then you have a 2 seater Z6/Z8/Z9 with a V8 and a transaxle. Basically an AMG GT from BMW. This may not sell very well at all and I doubt it would ever happen but this is the only way that BMW will ever make a sports car that can compete with the 911. It will never happen with a 3/5/7 based car.