The BMW M8 Convertible (F91) Competition, powered by the S63B44B 4.4-liter V8 engine producing 625 horsepower, represents the pinnacle of open-top performance within the 8 Series lineup. Production spanned from July 2019 to March 2022, positioning it as the high-performance variant of the F91 generation, which itself is based on the G15 8 Series platform. This model aimed to deliver an uncompromising blend of luxury, power, and driving dynamics in a convertible format, competing with vehicles like the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet and Aston Martin DB11 Volante.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M8 |
| Generation | M8 Convertible (F91) |
| Type (Engine) | Competition 4.4 V8 (625 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.1-15.2 l/100 km (15.6 – 15.5 US mpg, 18.7 – 18.6 UK mpg, 6.6 – 6.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.9-8.3 l/100 km (29.8 – 28.3 US mpg, 35.8 – 34 UK mpg, 12.7 – 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6-10.8 l/100 km (22.2 – 21.8 US mpg, 26.6 – 26.2 UK mpg, 9.4 – 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 241-246 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.2 kg/Hp, 310.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 373.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 625 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 142.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 750 Nm @ 1800-5800 rpm (553.17 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S63B44B |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2440 kg (5379.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4867 mm (191.61 in.) |
| Width | 1907 mm (75.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1353 mm (53.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2827 mm (111.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1632 mm (64.25 in.) |
| Front overhang | 950 mm (37.4 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1090 mm (42.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission M Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front tires | 275/35 ZR20 102Y XL |
| Rear tires | 285/35 ZR20 104Y XL |
| Front wheel rims | 9.5J x 20 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the M8 Convertible Competition lies the S63B44B, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine is a highly refined iteration of BMW’s renowned V8 family, featuring direct injection, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, and variable valve timing (Valvetronic) and variable valve lift. The twin-scroll turbochargers are positioned within the V of the engine, minimizing turbo lag and maximizing responsiveness. The engine produces 625 horsepower at 6000 rpm and a substantial 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque available from 1800 to 5800 rpm. This power is channeled through an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, specifically tuned for rapid and precise shifts. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The M8 Convertible Competition delivers exhilarating performance. The combination of the potent V8 engine and the quick-shifting automatic transmission results in a 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds, and a 0-100 km/h time of 3.3 seconds. The xDrive system provides exceptional grip, allowing for confident cornering and acceleration even in challenging conditions. While the automatic transmission offers smooth operation in everyday driving, it can be shifted manually via steering wheel-mounted paddles for a more engaging experience. Compared to lower-powered 8 Series variants, the M8 Competition offers a significantly more aggressive and dynamic driving experience, prioritizing performance over fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M8 Convertible Competition came standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments included Merino leather upholstery, M Sport seats with integrated headrests, and carbon fiber trim. Standard technology included BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. Optional extras included a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, active roll stabilization, and various customization options for interior and exterior finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The M8 Convertible’s chassis is engineered for high performance. It features a lightweight aluminum construction, a reinforced body structure, and an adaptive suspension system. The suspension utilizes electronically controlled dampers to adjust to road conditions and driving style. Braking duties are handled by large, ventilated discs with multi-piston calipers, providing exceptional stopping power. The M Compound brakes are standard, with optional M Carbon Ceramic brakes available for even greater performance and reduced weight.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BMW M8 Convertible Competition was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its powerful engine, dynamic handling, and luxurious interior. However, its high price tag and substantial weight were noted as potential drawbacks. Compared to other trims in the 8 Series lineup, the M8 Competition represented the ultimate performance offering, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience. Fuel economy, while respectable for a vehicle of this caliber, was significantly lower than that of the base 8 Series models.
Legacy
The F91 M8 Convertible Competition represents a significant achievement in BMW’s performance car lineage. The S63B44B engine has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant, and the M Steptronic transmission offers smooth and efficient operation. On the used car market, these vehicles hold their value well, attracting buyers who appreciate their combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles, the M8 Convertible Competition remains a desirable and rewarding ownership experience for discerning drivers.
