Most BMW fans have a love/hate relationship with the original 8-series “E31”. On one hand, it’s a beautiful grand touring coupe with classic 80s looks that was available with a V12 engine. On the other hand, most models weren’t particularly exciting to drive or very reliable and overly complicated. However, some tuning shops have recognized the potential of the 8-series as a basis for killer conversions. And this BMW “858CSL” from Reyn Speed Shop in California is probably the best example I’ve ever seen.
The most powerful of all the original 8 Series was the 850CSi: a V12-powered coupe with equipment and driving dynamics worthy of an M badge. But that wasn’t enough for Reyn. So the team set to work ripping out the old mechanical innards of an 8 Series, replacing the body with one made of carbon fiber and giving it a much more modern interior.
First, let’s start with the body. Not only is it a full carbon fiber replica, but it’s also been widened to look like the same fender flares you’d find on an E30 M3. It’s a genius widebody addition, because the E30’s 80s-style fender flares fit the 8-Series perfectly. It looks a bit like the E31 BMW M8 prototype that never made it to production, just without the rear fender vents. Speaking of vents, Reyn also replaced the pop-up headlights of the original 8-Series with hood vents, widened the lower headlights, and gave it an entirely new front bumper. Top Gear Netherlands points out that the nose now resembles Italdesign’s timeless BMW Nazca C2 concept.
However real The star of the show is what’s under the hood. Instead of the old BMW V12, Reyn has installed a 5.8-liter version of the V10 from the E60 M5. Hence the car’s name – 858. Instead of the crazy automated manual transmission “SMG” of the E60 M5, the 858 CSL uses a real six-speed manual transmission. That must sound incredible too.
Some parts of the E60 M5 made it into the 858CSL. The steering wheel, center console, gearshift and gauges all look like they were lifted straight from the old M5. Even the seats are from the M5, although they have been modified with racing harnesses. Sure, some of the classic interior charm of the original E31 is lost, but that is offset by more homely amenities.
Reyn showcased his 858CSL at the Legends of the Autobahn show during Monterey Car Week, where it won Best of Show in the Tuner class. It retains the look and charisma of the original, but replaces the aging mechanical parts that have frustrated Bimmerphiles. I’ve seen many E31 conversions over the years, but this one may be the best of them all.
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