BMW 840 (1996)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 266 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
266
Avg Mileage
110,739 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 1996 BMW 840 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 28 years old, 82% of BMW 840s from 1996 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 266 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 110,739 miles.
How does the 1996 BMW 840 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1996 BMW 840 has 110,739 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 207,200 miles for a 28-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a BMW 840?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 74%. The 1996 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 1996 BMW 840 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW 840 by Year
Checking a specific BMW 840?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1996 BMW 840
The 1996 BMW 840 is a premium performance with a 3982cc petrol engine. 266 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 1996, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 110,739 miles at 28 years old, BMW 840 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1996 BMW 840 Fuel Costs
The 3982cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1996 BMW 840?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 840 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 840s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1996 BMW 840
At 28 years old, the BMW 840 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 100%.
Alternatives to the 1996 BMW 840
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- JAGUAR XK8 (1997) 81% pass rate (-1%) from 3,443 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1998) 85% pass rate (+3%) from 3,337 tests
- MERCEDES E (1995) 79% pass rate (-3%) from 2,442 tests
- JAGUAR XJ (1998) 77% pass rate (-5%) from 2,154 tests