BMW M8 Competition review

So was it worth the quarter century wait? Not really. The new M8 hits all its marks in terms of power and performance and it looks spectacular too. But it’s not a sports car because no car with such a long wheelbase, four-wheel drive and the best part of two tonnes to carry could ever convince in that role. And in itself that might not be problematic if instead it were a superb tourer like the Mercedes-AMG GT 63S.

But it’s not. Its ride quality is too uneven, its interior insufficiently special to cut it even next to the Benz, let alone the not that much more expensive Bentley Continental GT V8. The engine, while mighty, never sounds that enthused by its role in life, unlike the thunderous offerings in its aforementioned rivals. More than anything else, for all these reasons and at this kind of money, the M8 lacks that vital sense of occasion.

If the car were instead softer, more practical, spacious and affordable, it could be terrific. We know this because BMW already makes it and it’s called the M5. Right now Sytner has a delivery miles M5 with the same ‘Competition’ powertrain for £74,000, almost £50,000 less than list for the M8. I guess if you’re seduced by the looks that’s fair enough, but the truth is the M5 is not just cheaper, it’s a better car too.

BMW M8 Competition

Engine: 4395cc, V8, twin-turbo
Transmission: 8-speed auto, 4WD
Power: 616bhp @ 6000rpm
Torque: 553lb ft @ 1800rpm
Weight: 1960kg

Power-to-weight ratio: 314bhp/tonne
0-62mph: 3.2 seconds
Top speed: 155mph (limited)
Price: £123,435

Ti rating: 6/10