AutoNSider Review | 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible

Do you get a little kick out of it when you valet and the attendant says something like "Hey Big Daddy…nice ride"…or "Whoa Momma…lookin' good!"

Or when they get to know you and put "Mr. or Ms. Before your first name…instead of your last?

BMW's biggest convertible just seems to bring an added measure of respect from onlookers…however they choose to express it.

And coming from those who know vehicles, that respect comes for good reason.

Whether it's the M850i's ability to sprint to 60 MPH in less than four seconds…its computer-controlled ride…the imposing figure that it cuts on the road…or just its six-figure window sticker, the M850i XDrive is a machine to be reckoned with.

The base BMW 8 series comes with a 335 HP twin-turbo six cylinder that'll get you to 60 in under five seconds. That's fast. And it'll do it for you for a little under / over 100K…depending upon options.

But it's the M series that pumps it up with a 523 HP 4.4 liter twin-turbo V-8 that'll shave a full second off your 0-60 time.

And as you probably already know, there's way more to BMW's "M" than just speed. Massive, powerful brakes are just one. It's comforting to know that you can haul the M850i down from triple-digit speeds with almost nonchalant ease.

You'll also get 20" alloys with run-flat rubber, sport suspension and more.

Just one of those "and mores" is a Sport setting on the M850i's 8-speed auto that'll wake up the neighborhood with its backfire "bark". Talk about sweet music… J

What makes BMW's M850i xDrive more than just a rowdy road racer, though, is its level of refinement and its available extras. Things like neck warmers, heated steering and heated armrests are especially welcome on a convertible…right?

And speaking of convertibles, the M850i's top can raise and lower before the light changes. 15-seconds is all it takes. And if the light changes unexpectedly, that top will still go up or down at speeds up to 30 MPH.

Need more? If you think that only Rolls or Bentley offer choices like illuminated glass shifters, iDrive controls and start / stop buttons, think again.

It's options like these that set BMW's M850i above many of its competitors.

But if you want still more, BMW's got that, too. Yes…pull that wallet out of your back pocket and design your own custom paint color and interior trim.

Try something like that on a Rolls or a Bentley and you'll be looking well North of a quarter million.

BMW's 8-series…even in M-convertible dress…starts at just over 120K.

If you like genuine performance, elegance and sunshine…and you can afford the ticket…you might even look at BMW's M850i xDrive and call it a bit of a bargain!

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