Hello Folks,
So most folks here probably don't know me, but I am the organizer of Southeast Sharkfest - an annual gathering of E9, E24 and E31 big coupes that would have celebrated its 18th anniversary this year if not for COVID. Since my introduction to BMWs, I have always had a thing for big coupes. I have owned several E24s and have always loved the E31. For a while now, I've watched as people have repeatedly stuffed S62s into E39 wagons and E38 sedans (as a wagon lover and e38 owner myself, both great options), however, I've always wanted to do the same with an E31. I've seen this done a few times, but the time has come to execute my own vision.
One of my best friends has a full lift equipped garage at his house and with help from my brother, we decided to embark on a mission to build our very own M8. Initially my thought was to equip with an ESS supercharger and go for power, but I'm leaning away from that in order to create a build more in line with what BMW might have done with a production V8 M8 (yes, I'm aware there exists a V12 M8 prototype). I'm trying to assemble a quality build with a more aggressive and responsive suspension, bolt on modifications (maybe a little bit more depending on how things go), a proper tune, and aesthetic accents from the euro market that were not available on the US cars.
A month ago I acquired a Calypso Red Metallic 1996 840Ci with 71k miles. It is in overall good condition with some light refinishing needed, particularly the front drivers side fender which the previous owner booped into the side of his garage. Oof. A week ago, the other half of the project was delivered - a 2000 M5 with 131k miles and a failed bank 1 VANOS.
Our project will involve removal of the S62, inspection & leakdown to insure integrity, a full refresh and replacement of rod bearings, gaskets, chains, guides, relevant sensors, and accessories (and of course, VANOS as needed) at which point the heart transplant will begin.
Instagram BigCoupeZinger - I'm going to start adding photos and stuff as we go along and I'll post updates periodically here as well. Wish us luck.
![948359]()
![948360]()
So most folks here probably don't know me, but I am the organizer of Southeast Sharkfest - an annual gathering of E9, E24 and E31 big coupes that would have celebrated its 18th anniversary this year if not for COVID. Since my introduction to BMWs, I have always had a thing for big coupes. I have owned several E24s and have always loved the E31. For a while now, I've watched as people have repeatedly stuffed S62s into E39 wagons and E38 sedans (as a wagon lover and e38 owner myself, both great options), however, I've always wanted to do the same with an E31. I've seen this done a few times, but the time has come to execute my own vision.
One of my best friends has a full lift equipped garage at his house and with help from my brother, we decided to embark on a mission to build our very own M8. Initially my thought was to equip with an ESS supercharger and go for power, but I'm leaning away from that in order to create a build more in line with what BMW might have done with a production V8 M8 (yes, I'm aware there exists a V12 M8 prototype). I'm trying to assemble a quality build with a more aggressive and responsive suspension, bolt on modifications (maybe a little bit more depending on how things go), a proper tune, and aesthetic accents from the euro market that were not available on the US cars.
A month ago I acquired a Calypso Red Metallic 1996 840Ci with 71k miles. It is in overall good condition with some light refinishing needed, particularly the front drivers side fender which the previous owner booped into the side of his garage. Oof. A week ago, the other half of the project was delivered - a 2000 M5 with 131k miles and a failed bank 1 VANOS.
Our project will involve removal of the S62, inspection & leakdown to insure integrity, a full refresh and replacement of rod bearings, gaskets, chains, guides, relevant sensors, and accessories (and of course, VANOS as needed) at which point the heart transplant will begin.
Instagram BigCoupeZinger - I'm going to start adding photos and stuff as we go along and I'll post updates periodically here as well. Wish us luck.
