The new BMW 8 Series Convertible has officially arrived in South Africa, offered exclusively in M850i form.

As we’ve already reported, the M850i Convertible is priced from R2 009 859, which makes the soft-top around R120 000 more expensive than the coupé.

As with the hardtop, various options will be offering, from Laserlight headlamps (R21 900) and an M Carbon exterior package (R51 500) to a night-vision function (R32 000) and a Bowers and Wilkins Diamond surround sound system (R54 500).

For the record, the M850i derivative features a twin-turbo 4,4-litre V8 that sends 390 kW and 750 N.m to all four corners, which in this instance allows a claimed 0-100 km/h dash in 3,9 seconds (two-tenths up on the coupé’s time) and a top speed of 250 km/h. An eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission ships standard, as do mixed tyres and adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers.

The four-seater 8 Series Convertible measures 4 843 mm long, 1 902 mm wide and 1 339 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2 822 mm, meaning its exterior dimensions closely match those of its hardtop sibling.

Convertible-specific measures include additional cross struts, a specifically designed shear panel for the underbody and a rollover protection system.

The electronically operated soft-top will ship standard in black, but will also be available in Anthracite Silver effect as an option. It opens and closes at the touch of a button in 15 seconds, and can be operated at speeds up to 50 km/h. When open, the soft-top stows under a cover with a surface structure and stitching matching that of the instrument panel and interior door trim.

Original article from Car