1995 BMW 840Ci (E31) |

Sold

1995 BMW 840Ci (E31)

Sold Price

£7,100

Mileage~146,140 on clock
TransmissionAutomatic
Engine4.0L
LocationWoking

Market Auction

The seller has supplied the images and written the description - we have actioned seller ID, V5 and HPi checks - learn more

Market Auction

The seller has supplied the images and written the description - we have actioned seller ID, V5 and HPi checks - learn more

SOLD

1995 BMW 840Ci (E31)

I WANT ONE

Introduction

E31 is a true icon of the '90s a blend of performance and elegance wrapped in a futuristic design that still looks ahead of its time. Think neon-lit streets at night, a time when tech and design were pushing boundaries - and today it's also ULEZ compliant!

I purchased this BMW 840Ci in April 2020 as my crazy lockdown project, drawn to its iconic design and grand tourer pedigree. My plan was a full restoration, potentially swapping in an S62 V8 and completing a respray. However, life took a different turn (new baby boy), and time and resources no longer allow me to see the project through.

That said, I’ve ensured meticulous upkeep and thoughtful upgrades, maintaining the car as a solid, running example while addressing many known E31 issues. The extensive work was done by myself, Phoenix Motorsport (Gerry Speechley), and ACK Automotive Services in Ripley (GU23 6EY) – both specialists who know the car well (happy to share contacts).

The car is mechanically strong, comes with a valid MOT until 19.11.2025, and is at a great stage for the next owner to enjoy as-is or take to the next level. While not a concours example, it remains an engaging, head-turning drivers' 8-Series, ready for someone who appreciates these rare modern classics.

This listing was written from information supplied by XXXXX after meeting XXXXX the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Market Auction

Eduard, the seller, has created this listing themselves using our free Market Auction tool. Unlike our Curated Auctions, we haven’t photographed the car or written the listing, however we have completed 3 important security checks for your peace of mind.

V5C Checked

Eduard provided a copy of the V5C logbook, which we verified against his photo ID for name and address confirmation.

ID Checked

Eduard provided his photo ID, which we verified against the name and address on the V5C logbook.

History Checked

History check actioned using HPi, the industry’s top verification service, for finance, write-offs, and stolen records.

V5C Checked

Josh provided a copy of the V5C logbook, which we verified against his photo ID for name and address confirmation.

ID Checked

Josh provided his photo ID, which we verified against the name and address on the V5C logbook.

History Checked

History check actioned using HPi, the industry’s top verification service, for finance, write-offs, and stolen records.

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saved £1,260* when they
sold their BMW with us.

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

Exterior

The E31’s clean design, pillarless windows, and pop-up headlights stand out. Key exterior work: boot/hood struts replaced (2020), jackin points welded & Waxoyled (2022-2023), and driver’s door handle rebuilt with Wokke’s kit (2022).

Wheels and Tyres

A genuine BMW new-old-stock rim was installed on the front passenger side (2021) to refresh the set, as the original didn’t look great.

The car sits on a full set of fresh tyres – Dunlops at the front and Nankang Sportnex NS-2 at the rear (2021). The tyres have plenty of tread left (as you can imagine the car was only used on Sundays occasionally, so mileage is non-existent), so they won’t need replacing anytime soon. This combination provides a solid balance of grip, stability, and comfort, making the car feel planted on the road.

The original wheels remain in good overall condition, with no major curb rash or structural issues.

Bodywork

The bodywork has noticeable dents, scratches, and peeling, as expected for a car of this age. A respray is recommended if aesthetics are a priority.

That said, the jacking points have been professionally welded and treated (2022/2023), addressing a known weak spots on these cars. While the paintwork shows its age, the structure underneath is solid where it matters.

This is a great base for someone looking to restore the exterior while benefiting from the mechanical work already done.

Paint

The paintwork is tired, with dents, scratches, peeling, and some rust spots that would benefit from proper treatment and a full respray. At nearly 30 years old, the wear is expected, but it’s something to factor in if aesthetics matter to you.

If you're not overly concerned with looks, the car is fully functional and can be driven as-is, but a cosmetic refresh would bring it back to its former glory. I've personally focused on mechanical upkeep rather than perfection, leaving the next owner the choice of how far to take it.

Glass and Trim

The rear windshield has a crack and delamination, a common E31 issue. While it doesn’t affect usability, it is visually noticeable.

A new rubber seal for the driver’s side rear window was installed in 2024, improving fitment.

Additionally, a D-shape weatherstrip was added to the driver’s side in 2021 to help reduce wind noise for a quieter cabin. Aside from these, the glass and trim are in good condition.

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Interior

The BMW F31 leather seats have been installed and are fully operational, retaining all functionality without modifying the car’s wiring. This upgrade improves comfort and support, and I’ve documented the process in detail on Bimmerforum.

Seats and Carpets

The BMW F31 leather seats have been installed and are fully operational, retaining all functions without modifying the car’s wiring. The full seat mod is documented on Bimmerforum.

In 2022, I also replaced the carpets throughout the interior, giving it a fresher look.

Dashboard

The dashboard and interior trim have received several key updates. The headlining and pillar trims were re-trimmed in 2019, giving the interior a fresher look. To enhance visibility and efficiency, all interior lights were upgraded to LEDs between 2020 and 2021, and in 2022, all instrument cluster bulbs were replaced to ensure clear illumination. The interior control panels were sanded and repainted in 2022, restoring their original appearance. The sunroof mechanism received a new gear/star in 2021. The door window mechanisms were fully disassembled, greased, and the seals lubricated, while all BMW plastic clips were replaced.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Both the steering wheel and gear stick remain stock and are in adequate condition for their age. The steering wheel could benefit from re-upholstering, but it’s not critical and remains fully functional. The gear stick shows typical wear but is still in good shape.

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Mechanics

Extensive work has been done since 2020, addressing key engine, suspension, and electrical issues. Major components like mounts, sensors, cooling, and drivetrain have been refreshed, with many known E31 weak points already sorted.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine and gearbox have had extensive maintenance. The transmission oil and filter were replaced (2020), and a new AUX fan was installed. In 2021, engine mounts were replaced, the power steering system was flushed with fresh Pentosin, and the idle control valve was swapped with an E46 M3 unit. The throttle bodies were disassembled and cleaned, and all camshaft, crankshaft, coolant temp, and intake temp sensors were replaced.

In 2022, the bottom oil pan was replaced, and the oil pump cleaned. The heater valves were refurbished, and key parts like the chain tensioner, thermostat housing, thermostat, and fan clutch were replaced. In 2023, the intake manifold was refurbished, and the fuel injectors were professionally restored by Mr. Injector UK. A new PCV valve, knock sensors, and valve cover gaskets were installed, along with the right-side upper chain case gasket. A brand new starter installed in January 2025.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension and braking system have had extensive maintenance and upgrades. A Bilstein B12 kit with Eibach springs was installed in 2019. The Brembo brake discs and pads were replaced all around the same year.

A 3.45:1 differential from an E32 735i was installed in 2019. In 2020, the rear upper suspension arm was replaced. In 2021, the propshaft was fully rebuilt, the driveshaft donut was replaced, and the nearside outer CV driveshaft was changed. The performance camber plates and urethane trailing arm bushes were installed, followed by a four-wheel alignment at Phoenix Motorsport. Other work included a NSF roll bar drop-link replacement, a refurbished front brake caliper, and an offside lower arm replacement (2022).

In 2024, the front brake lines were replaced with copper following an MOT advisory, and in 2025, new front and rear brake wear sensors were installed.

The Drive

The car starts and drives, with a smooth gearbox and responsive throttle. It was serviced ahead of its MOT, including an oil and filter change and a Pentosin top-up for the power steering system.

A fresh MOT was acquired in November 2024, with all advisories addressed before the sale, so it can be collected in person on temporary insurance without any issues.

The 3.45:1 differential swap from an E32 735i gives it quicker acceleration, making it more responsive than a stock 840Ci. The Bilstein B12 suspension and performance camber plates improve stability and steering feel. The intake manifold and injectors were fully refurbished - this also helps with the smoother drive in general.

Electrics and Other

The BMW E31 is known for electrical gremlins, which often scare people away, but quite a few common issues in this car have been addressed or prevented.

The dual Bosch batteries were replaced (2019), and the MID screen fully rebuilt (2020). To combat battery drain, the General Module and Relay Module were rebuilt (2021), with capacitors replaced. The fuse boxes were tested, and several fuses replaced as preventative maintenance.

A new Alpine UTE200BT stereo with USB, Bluetooth, and hands-free was installed (2022), and the boot cables were rewired to fix lighting errors. A new OEM alternator was installed (2022), along with a voltmeter module with USB ports integrated into the center console next to the handbrake. The blower fan control board (Sword) and Climate Control (IHKA) were rebuilt, adding active cooling to prevent future failures (check photos!)

Other updates include JL Audio speakers (2023) and a new horn (2024).

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History and Paperwork

The detailed service history has been logged with invoices and receipts where possible. The car is ULEZ compliant, officially registered with ULEZ TfL administration, and comes with a certificate, allowing it to be driven in low-emission zones.

The car has been regularly serviced since 2020, with a strong focus on preventative maintenance and reliability. Routine oil and filter changes have been carried out, along with fluid replacements to keep the engine, transmission, and power steering system in good condition.

A comprehensive pack of invoices and receipts is included, covering extensive maintenance and repairs from both my ownership and the previous owner.

There are still some issues with the car, and any potential buyer should be fully aware before purchasing. The sunroof judders, likely due to gate arms, and would benefit from Frankie’s BMW “Sunroof Rebuild” and “Simplification” fixes. The rear windshield has a crack and delamination, a common E31 issue, but remains functional. There is an engine oil leak, which Gerry from Phoenix Motorsport suggested could be from the chain case gaskets - I replaced one upper gasket, but the other upper and both lower ones could still be the cause. The paintwork is tired, with dents, scratches, and peeling, ideally needing dent removal, rust treatment, and a full respray. The headlight beam adjusters were temporarily fixed using Timm’s method, but a new Wokke adjuster set is included for a permanent solution. The AC doesn’t work due to a leak somewhere, but I never troubleshooted it. The side mirror control switch is non-functional, likely due to wiring rather than the General Module, but the mirrors can still be adjusted manually. The car is fully drivable and solid mechanically, but these issues should be considered before purchase.

A bunch of spare parts is included with the sale (check photos). Most notably, the Wokke headlight adjusters kit, which, when installed, will provide a permanent fix. Also included is a replacement AC pipe (64538391219), which I had planned to install to diagnose the non-functional AC but never got around to it. Other useful spares include a steering wheel, water pump, ignition coils, various gaskets, o-rings, sensors, filters, and an original BMW radio. The factory engine covers are also included but were left off to give the car a more aggressive look.

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From Trade Classics:

This is a Market Auction listing, meaning we have not visited and photographed the car - instead the seller has supplied the images and written the description. However we’ve done all our usual seller checks, including photo ID that matches the V5, and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPi that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

Viewings are welcomed, so please get in touch with us via the 'contact us' page - we just need to speak to you first on the phone, have you register on the site, and also send in valid photo ID before confirming a suitable time to visit.

Like all our auctions, if there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - the Buyer's Premium is not refundable in any instance, just like a traditional auction house.