Thinking about buying a M8 Comp
Discussion
As the title suggests, I'm contemplating buying a M8 Competition to use as a daily.
My commute is 15 miles each way, which includes 10 miles of motorway and with visiting parents I do about 10,000 miles a year.
Every now and again I may have to have the kids with me, and I know it has Isofix in the back, so the passenger seat will have to be pushed right forward when my daughter is in the rear. But that's once in a blue moon!
Does anyone have any real world experience of them before I go and get a test drive?
Good points and bad?
My commute is 15 miles each way, which includes 10 miles of motorway and with visiting parents I do about 10,000 miles a year.
Every now and again I may have to have the kids with me, and I know it has Isofix in the back, so the passenger seat will have to be pushed right forward when my daughter is in the rear. But that's once in a blue moon!
Does anyone have any real world experience of them before I go and get a test drive?
Good points and bad?
Geoffcapes said:
As the title suggests, I'm contemplating buying a M8 Competition to use as a daily.
My commute is 15 miles each way, which includes 10 miles of motorway and with visiting parents I do about 10,000 miles a year.
Every now and again I may have to have the kids with me, and I know it has Isofix in the back, so the passenger seat will have to be pushed right forward when my daughter is in the rear. But that's once in a blue moon!
Does anyone have any real world experience of them before I go and get a test drive?
Good points and bad?
Compared to the M5, only four seats, smaller boot and considerably more expensive despite there being less metal. I think they look quite similar to the 4 series and don't stand out as a result. I'm not sure what the added value is at all to be honest. Of course they still have a brilliant engine and gearbox, go like stink and have a great interior. But so does the M5C and there is virtually no performance difference to speak of.My commute is 15 miles each way, which includes 10 miles of motorway and with visiting parents I do about 10,000 miles a year.
Every now and again I may have to have the kids with me, and I know it has Isofix in the back, so the passenger seat will have to be pushed right forward when my daughter is in the rear. But that's once in a blue moon!
Does anyone have any real world experience of them before I go and get a test drive?
Good points and bad?
I also understand that the ride of the M8 competition is harsh and not an enjoyable experience when using one in the UK. I did consider buying one myself, especially with the up to £40K off new price deals that are around at the moment, but was put off by everybody saying that the harsh ride spolis owning one
Hereandthere said:
I also understand that the ride of the M8 competition is harsh and not an enjoyable experience when using one in the UK. I did consider buying one myself, especially with the up to £40K off new price deals that are around at the moment, but was put off by everybody saying that the harsh ride spolis owning one
I think it is the same as the M5C which is quite firm compared to a standard saloon because it needs to be for the high speeds and the performance that is available. That said I've driven thousands of miles across Europe in mine and don't feel it's too firm at all, it's supremely comfortable.Hereandthere said:
Or are you sayiong the M5C is a good ride?Again, my understanding is that the M8C has a harsher ride to the M5C and on certain roads makes it virtually undrivable
I'm saying that personally I find the ride in the M5C fine but appreciate that it is a subject thing. Most of my driving is on ordinary roads in the UK and I drive quite quickly when conditions allow and the handling is outstanding. For me the ride/suspension is perfect for my driving style and I haven't had any adverse comments when I have a passenger. I would be surprised if the M8 had a harsher ride than the M5 to be honest, I would expect it to be very similar, I haven't been in one though but have based my comments on the M5, the fact that they share most of their components including engine and gearbox, have almost identical performance and thus would expect a similar suspension set up. I may of course be incorrect.Been a serial M5/M6 purchaser in past. Moved into an approved used M8 coupe with ultimate pack about 12m ago, kids have flown the nest and I don’t really need rear seats as much anymore and as I’m sure you will know in coupe form it really is a two seater. I’m 6ft2 and with front seat positioned correctly there is no leg room at all in back even for children.
I know looks are subjective but the coupe form has got to be about BMWs best looking car and it gets a lot of attention, although I appreciate the opposite of that is felt by many to be one of the M5s selling points. As I also own an iX can’t be many people who own BMWs most beautiful and most ugly looking cars.
The ride IMHO is quite punishing even in comfort setting on our poor quality roads, definitely worse than any BMW I’ve owned. Along time ago was lucky enough to have a 599 and then an F12 on the drive for a few years and its ride seems harsher than what I even remember either of those were like.
Obviously doesn’t make any sense on paper next to the M5: worse ride, only 2 usable seats, more expensive etc etc but when did buying these sort of cars ever make sense, it’s just another mid life crisis man maths vanity purchase, should have paid off more of the mortgage and I can’t afford an F812 which is what I really wanted.
Another point that I’ve heard elsewhere and definitely agree with: although it has the BW sound I think something to do with the small cabin interior means it’s very underwhelming. Have the iXM60 with BW sound and the difference is palpable and I’m no audiophile, the BW sound in the iX blows the m8s system away. Also the centre satnav/entertainment screen is quite small although I think that changed in the LCI update. May not be deal breakers compared to other points but bear in mind.
Whatever you decide best of luck with it. I presume there are some good prices to be had now. My car was a 69 reg launch car sold at list price to its first owner I’m told. Even though I got it for well less than half that price I wouldn’t dare look at prices now for fear of seeing what sort of battering I’ve probably taken in just the last 12m and I’m sure there’s along way to go still.
I know looks are subjective but the coupe form has got to be about BMWs best looking car and it gets a lot of attention, although I appreciate the opposite of that is felt by many to be one of the M5s selling points. As I also own an iX can’t be many people who own BMWs most beautiful and most ugly looking cars.
The ride IMHO is quite punishing even in comfort setting on our poor quality roads, definitely worse than any BMW I’ve owned. Along time ago was lucky enough to have a 599 and then an F12 on the drive for a few years and its ride seems harsher than what I even remember either of those were like.
Obviously doesn’t make any sense on paper next to the M5: worse ride, only 2 usable seats, more expensive etc etc but when did buying these sort of cars ever make sense, it’s just another mid life crisis man maths vanity purchase, should have paid off more of the mortgage and I can’t afford an F812 which is what I really wanted.
Another point that I’ve heard elsewhere and definitely agree with: although it has the BW sound I think something to do with the small cabin interior means it’s very underwhelming. Have the iXM60 with BW sound and the difference is palpable and I’m no audiophile, the BW sound in the iX blows the m8s system away. Also the centre satnav/entertainment screen is quite small although I think that changed in the LCI update. May not be deal breakers compared to other points but bear in mind.
Whatever you decide best of luck with it. I presume there are some good prices to be had now. My car was a 69 reg launch car sold at list price to its first owner I’m told. Even though I got it for well less than half that price I wouldn’t dare look at prices now for fear of seeing what sort of battering I’ve probably taken in just the last 12m and I’m sure there’s along way to go still.
I bought an M8 Comp quite recently. Loving it. Feel free to ask specific questions you have.
FWIW I had a Continental for a weekend and preferred the M8. Bentley was too large and heavy to feel sporty, I guess I wanted a GT more on the sporty side. 850i was my first choice but I really don’t like black interiors and 90% of what’s on the market is black. Aston would have been another obvious choice, in the end I really liked the M8 on test drive and went for that.
FWIW I had a Continental for a weekend and preferred the M8. Bentley was too large and heavy to feel sporty, I guess I wanted a GT more on the sporty side. 850i was my first choice but I really don’t like black interiors and 90% of what’s on the market is black. Aston would have been another obvious choice, in the end I really liked the M8 on test drive and went for that.
jm doc said:
I think they look quite similar to the 4 series and don't stand out as a result. I'm not sure what the added value is at all to be honest.
I think the looks are subjective. The 8 Series, to me, looks low, wide and dramatic on the road, especially when juxtaposed with the usual (mostly SUV) dross littering our streets. I also think it looks a million times better than the current 4 Series which is lumpy and awkward looking in comparison.Hereandthere said:
"I bought an M8 Comp quite recently"
Assuming you live in the UK, do you find the ride of your M8 harsh and uncomfortable?
I do live in the UK, London. It is On the harsh side, yes. It’s our 3rd car. I wouldn’t have one for a daily. Assuming you live in the UK, do you find the ride of your M8 harsh and uncomfortable?
That said, it’s less harsh than my Cayman GTS was. I think it has to do with the longer wheelbase. I also didn’t find the Continental much softer, but internet reviews don’t agree on this one.
Dunno about that.
I think the angled centre console and climate controls are much better in the G30/F90. The only real difference in the 8er is the honeycomb quilting, which I can take or leave. Though the seating position feels a bit lower and less offset.
In the F10 vs F06 there was a much bigger difference IMHO.
I think the angled centre console and climate controls are much better in the G30/F90. The only real difference in the 8er is the honeycomb quilting, which I can take or leave. Though the seating position feels a bit lower and less offset.
In the F10 vs F06 there was a much bigger difference IMHO.
Been a serial BMW guy for the last 20 years. 320,325, 330,335, 535 and then F10 M5 and now have a M8 Competition Gran Coupe for 6 months now....Mint car low mileage fully optioned and straight from main dealer.
Truthfully the car hasn't hit the spot. Looks wise it gets compliments everywhere I go and i look at the car on some days I think they got the exterior styling correct. Interior is very nice as well and the Tech and Sound system is all good.
The downsides of the car and these are serious downsides, the ride is very harsh, Horrible infact. The car rattles on most roads due to imperfections, i have resolved some rattles some just persist because its a very hard and stiff setup and living in London the roads are terrible.
The car has no drama or theatre to it, it simply picks up speed with zero sound, it is infact very boring. I usually keep my cars for years this one I am already eyeing up alternatives. RS7 or a RSQ8 maybe, BTW the driving position is very very low, you may like it but I would say its uncomfortable. The current M5 seats are much better with more adjustability, the leg rest is manual on an M5 it is electric. Its has far fewer adjustments then the M5 and you get no massage seats. I think the car is compromised and an M850 GC would have been a much better ft for me with a better ride. I understand the Audi products have Air suspension and the ride is sublime. Never had any other car apart form BMW but seriously looking at others now...
Truthfully the car hasn't hit the spot. Looks wise it gets compliments everywhere I go and i look at the car on some days I think they got the exterior styling correct. Interior is very nice as well and the Tech and Sound system is all good.
The downsides of the car and these are serious downsides, the ride is very harsh, Horrible infact. The car rattles on most roads due to imperfections, i have resolved some rattles some just persist because its a very hard and stiff setup and living in London the roads are terrible.
The car has no drama or theatre to it, it simply picks up speed with zero sound, it is infact very boring. I usually keep my cars for years this one I am already eyeing up alternatives. RS7 or a RSQ8 maybe, BTW the driving position is very very low, you may like it but I would say its uncomfortable. The current M5 seats are much better with more adjustability, the leg rest is manual on an M5 it is electric. Its has far fewer adjustments then the M5 and you get no massage seats. I think the car is compromised and an M850 GC would have been a much better ft for me with a better ride. I understand the Audi products have Air suspension and the ride is sublime. Never had any other car apart form BMW but seriously looking at others now...
Edited by BM Man on Monday 22 April 10:19
Edited by BM Man on Monday 22 April 10:20
BM Man said:
Been a serial BMW guy for the last 20 years. 320,325, 330,335, 535 and then F10 M5 and now have a M8 Competition Gran Coupe for 6 months now....Mint car low mileage fully optioned and straight from main dealer.
Truthfully the car hasn't hit the spot. Looks wise it gets compliments everywhere I go and i look at the car on some days I think they got the exterior styling correct. Interior is very nice as well and the Tech and Sound system is all good.
The downsides of the car and these are serious downsides, the ride is very harsh, Horrible infact. The car rattles on most roads due to imperfections, i have resolved some rattles some just persist because its a very hard and stiff setup and living in London the roads are terrible.
The car has no drama or theatre to it, it simply picks up speed with zero sound, it is infact very boring. I usually keep my cars for years this one I am already eyeing up alternatives. RS7 or a RSQ8 maybe, BTW the driving position is very very low, you may like it but I would say its uncomfortable. The current M5 seats are much better with more adjustability, the leg rest is manual on an M5 it is electric. Its has far fewer adjustments then the M5 and you get no massage seats. I think the car is compromised and an M850 GC would have been a much better ft for me with a better ride. I understand the Audi products have Air suspension and the ride is sublime. Never had any other car apart form BMW but seriously looking at others now...
Sorry to hear about your experience - and potential buyers should indeed be aware of feedback such as yours. In my short ownership of the 2022 M8 Comp coupe I’ve been pleased, but I would NOT have the car as my daily driver. Truthfully the car hasn't hit the spot. Looks wise it gets compliments everywhere I go and i look at the car on some days I think they got the exterior styling correct. Interior is very nice as well and the Tech and Sound system is all good.
The downsides of the car and these are serious downsides, the ride is very harsh, Horrible infact. The car rattles on most roads due to imperfections, i have resolved some rattles some just persist because its a very hard and stiff setup and living in London the roads are terrible.
The car has no drama or theatre to it, it simply picks up speed with zero sound, it is infact very boring. I usually keep my cars for years this one I am already eyeing up alternatives. RS7 or a RSQ8 maybe, BTW the driving position is very very low, you may like it but I would say its uncomfortable. The current M5 seats are much better with more adjustability, the leg rest is manual on an M5 it is electric. Its has far fewer adjustments then the M5 and you get no massage seats. I think the car is compromised and an M850 GC would have been a much better ft for me with a better ride. I understand the Audi products have Air suspension and the ride is sublime. Never had any other car apart form BMW but seriously looking at others now...
Edited by BM Man on Monday 22 April 10:19
Edited by BM Man on Monday 22 April 10:20
Ride is on the harsh side which I admit. I will only disagree about engine sound - I thought it was massively better than e.g. my 718 GTS 6 cylinder 4.0 litre engine, or Continental’s V8 (the Bentley I drove was base spec and not S)
pmn3 said:
Sorry to hear about your experience - and potential buyers should indeed be aware of feedback such as yours. In my short ownership of the 2022 M8 Comp coupe I’ve been pleased, but I would NOT have the car as my daily driver.
Ride is on the harsh side which I admit. I will only disagree about engine sound - I thought it was massively better than e.g. my 718 GTS 6 cylinder 4.0 litre engine, or Continental’s V8 (the Bentley I drove was base spec and not S)
Its still a good car, I am a critical type person. The ride for me is quite harsh maybe in my 20's and 30's I would have been ok with that and accepted the looks and the performance as a big plus, and the car is a class leader for looks and performance. I recon now in my late 40s I prefer something comfortable? Like I said the car has abundance of performance but I drive it in Comfort setting all the time, the sound is so muted. Mine has the exhaust button I am sure your one does as its standard on the Comp Pack. This button makes zero difference. Back in the days the E46 330I sounded great and the E92 335i was something else in terms of sounds. The M8 is definitely muted. Ride is on the harsh side which I admit. I will only disagree about engine sound - I thought it was massively better than e.g. my 718 GTS 6 cylinder 4.0 litre engine, or Continental’s V8 (the Bentley I drove was base spec and not S)
Recently the car did a software update it does these automatically over the Air, the Engine Noise sound has now disappeared on the I-Drive under settings.
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