The Two Eights - Two Classics from the era of the BMW Eight series ultra-stylish sports saloon.

There is no doubting the eight series is a classic of BMW design, performance and aesthetic appeal; some say a culimination of perfection in automotive form and function. But some might beg to differ and make out the point that the front takes too much away from the classic BMW look - despite the sedate double-kidney grille and conclude that these aren't really but ugly hybrids. Sure, the 8 series has a sharp, sleek appearance with none of the visual sympathies afforded by her other models. These models are built for pure speed and the advantages of a Ferrari-style front simply can't be overlooked. And in that department, the 8s are truly exceptional - the B12 5.7 capable of a tidy but frightening 300km/h or 187mph.

At one point, BMW had an M8 on the cards. It was to be a jugernaut boasting 48 valves on a 6.0-litre V12 with 550bhp or 405kW. But the early 90s recession scared of what limited market BMW might have been able to gleam for the car and no commercial release eventuated. BMW, however, managed to use her experience from the shelved M8 to burn up some attention in the development of the McLaren F1.

Essentially, the 850CSi is a stripped-down M version of the 8 series - without the M tag. BMW took thick criticism over the standard 8 series, hence the 835CSi as a staunch performer. The 835CSi bears the chasiss designation "WBS" which denotes BMW Motorsport, rather than the run-of-the-mill "WBA" which is carried on all other BMWs - and once one peeks under the bonnet, he is greeted by the recognisable M-Power symbols emblazened on the engine and supporting machinery.

ALPINA B12 5.7

Engine - V12, 60 degrees, 24 valve