Quick answer: The 2024 BMW M8 Competition delivers supercar performance with grand touring luxury, powered by a 617-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 engine that achieves 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds. Starting at $138,800 for the Coupe and $148,800 for the Convertible, the M8 receives no updates for 2024. Long-term ownership is defined by steep first-year depreciation, with Kelley Blue Book estimating a total 5-year cost to own of $182,752.
Key takeaways:
- Powered by a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 producing 617 horsepower, accelerating to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds.
- Base starting MSRP is $138,800 for the Coupe and $148,800 for the Convertible, excluding destination charges.
- Kelley Blue Book projects the 5-year cost of ownership at $182,752, with depreciation representing $81,753 of that total.
- Edmunds track tests recorded a 60-0 mph braking distance of 104 feet with zero brake fade.
- Common owner complaints involve electrical glitches in the iDrive infotainment system and rapid brake pad wear.
- BMW will discontinue the M8 Coupe after the 2025 model year, making the Convertible and Gran Coupe the surviving body styles.
Overview: Flagship Performance in a Grand Touring Package
The BMW M8 Competition sits at the absolute pinnacle of the brand’s performance hierarchy. It serves as the ultimate expression of the M division’s engineering philosophy, designed for buyers who want supercar acceleration without sacrificing the comfort needed for long-distance highway cruising. As the peak performance model in the BMW M8 lineup, the M8 Competition competes in an exclusive segment against heavyweights like the Mercedes-AMG SL and the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.
Available in Coupe and Convertible body styles, the M8 Competition balances blistering speed with a surprisingly compliant ride. Unlike track-focused sports cars that punish occupants over rough pavement, the M8 excels at daily drivability. For the 2024 model year, the vehicle carries over completely unchanged from the previous year, continuing the first generation that was originally introduced for 2020.
Pricing and Trim Options
For 2024, BMW offers the M8 exclusively in the high-performance Competition trim. The base manufacturer suggested retail price starts at $138,800 for the M8 Competition Coupe and $148,800 for the M8 Competition Convertible. This represents a clean $10,000 premium for the open-top variant.
These base prices exclude BMW’s standard $1,175 destination and handling fee. When destination charges are factored in, the starting prices become $139,975 for the Coupe and $149,975 for the Convertible. Some automotive pricing resources cite slightly higher starting figures, such as $140,795 or $150,795, which typically reflect Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds configurations that include destination fees and popular standard options.
On the buying side, Edmunds reports that buyers can expect to negotiate significant discounts on a new M8, with typical transaction prices averaging roughly 15% below MSRP. This translates to an average savings of about $20,873, representing substantial negotiating leverage due to slower-moving inventory for high-end grand tourers.
| Body Style | Base MSRP | MSRP with Destination ($1,175) | Typical Transaction Price (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| M8 Competition Coupe | $138,800 | $139,975 | $119,102 |
| M8 Competition Convertible | $148,800 | $149,975 | $129,102 |
Specifications and Performance
The 2024 BMW M8 Competition comes equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 3.0-second 0-60 mph sprint.
The heart of the M8 Competition is the S63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which routes power through an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. To manage this massive output, BMW utilizes its rear-biased M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. For enthusiast drivers, the system features a selectable 2WD mode that completely disengages the front axle, transforming the M8 into a traditional rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
During independent track testing conducted by Edmunds, the M8 Competition Convertible matched BMW’s acceleration claim, hitting 0-60 mph in exactly 3.0 seconds. Braking performance was equally impressive, with the heavy grand tourer stopping from 60 to 0 mph in just 104 feet. The test team reported zero brake fade after multiple high-speed stops, praising the optional carbon-ceramic brake package, though noting they can feel slightly grabby in low-speed stop-and-go city traffic.
| Category | 2024 BMW M8 Competition Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (S63) |
| Horsepower | 617 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,860 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed M Steptronic Automatic |
| Drivetrain | M xDrive AWD (with selectable 2WD mode) |
| Curb Weight | 4,251 lbs (Coupe) / 4,560 lbs (Convertible) |
| 0-60 mph Time | 3.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (189 mph with M Driver’s Package) |
Fuel Economy and Range
The 2024 BMW M8 yields EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.
Given its high-performance V8 engine, the M8 demands premium unleaded fuel. The vehicle features a 20.1-gallon fuel tank, which yields an estimated highway cruising range of approximately 442 miles under ideal conditions. In real-world driving, spirited acceleration will drop these figures significantly, lowering the combined driving range closer to 340 miles per tank.
Design and Cabin Practicality
The exterior of the M8 Competition stands out with its muscular stance, highlighted by a long, swept-back hood, aggressive front air intakes, carbon fiber aerodynamic elements, and a quad exhaust system. This design has aged gracefully since its debut, avoiding the oversized kidney grille treatment seen on other recent BMW designs.
Inside the cabin, the M8 offers a premium environment lined with high-grade Merino leather, carbon fiber trim, and exceptional build quality. Standard amenities include heavily bolstered, heated, and ventilated front sports seats. However, reviewers at Edmunds point out that the dashboard and center console suffer from a cluttered layout with an excessive number of physical buttons.
Infotainment is controlled via a 12.3-inch central touchscreen running BMW’s iDrive system. While the display is highly responsive and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, certain climate functions, such as adjusting the seat heating levels, require navigating through multiple digital menus rather than using a simple physical toggle.
Cargo Space and Everyday Usability
The M8 Competition Coupe offers 12.4 cubic feet of trunk volume, while the Convertible reduces cargo space significantly when the soft top is lowered.
While the Coupe’s 12.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity is sufficient for a pair of carry-on suitcases for a weekend getaway, the Convertible is far less practical. When the insulated fabric roof is folded down, it retracts directly into the trunk, severely limiting the vertical space to the point where only small soft bags can fit. Furthermore, the rear seats in both models are extremely cramped, offering very little legroom or headroom, making them far better suited as extra storage shelves than actual passenger seating.
Ownership Costs and Depreciation
According to the Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own data, the 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupe requires a projected total of $182,752 over five years.
Like most high-end luxury vehicles, the M8 suffers from rapid depreciation, which constitutes the largest single expense of ownership. Kelley Blue Book projects that the M8 Coupe will lose $81,753 in value over five years, with a massive first-year drop of $40,816. Insurance represents another major cost, averaging $40,310 over the five-year period.
BMW mitigates early maintenance expenses with its Ultimate Care program, which covers all scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles. The standard new vehicle warranty spans 4 years or 50,000 miles. However, once these coverages expire in Year 4 and Year 5, maintenance and repair costs increase significantly.
| Category | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | 5-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depreciation | $40,816 | $14,221 | $11,967 | $9,504 | $5,245 | $81,753 |
| Fuel | $1,753 | $1,662 | $1,616 | $1,605 | $1,605 | $8,241 |
| Insurance | $8,062 | $8,062 | $8,062 | $8,062 | $8,062 | $40,310 |
| Financing | $6,121 | $4,904 | $3,617 | $2,254 | $812 | $17,708 |
| Maintenance | $0 | $1,246 | $133 | $4,742 | $0 | $6,121 |
| Repairs | $0 | $0 | $0 | $1,364 | $2,036 | $3,400 |
| State Fees | $11,464 | $4,388 | $3,704 | $3,093 | $2,570 | $25,219 |
| Annual Total | $68,216 | $34,483 | $29,099 | $30,624 | $20,330 | $182,752 |
Reliability and Common Issues
The 2024 BMW M8 Competition holds an above-average reliability rating of 4 out of 5 from J.D. Power. While the engine and transmission are considered highly durable, owners on community forums report several common issues:
- Electrical Glitches: Intermittent freezing of the iDrive screen and dropouts with the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections.
- Accelerated Brake Wear: Due to the vehicle’s heavy curb weight and high horsepower, the standard steel brake pads and rotors wear out rapidly under spirited driving.
- Suspension Noises: Occasional squeaking or thumping sounds when driving over speed bumps, which usually require dealer inspection of the control arms or bushings.
- Check Engine Lights: Sporadic sensor faults related to the crankcase ventilation valves, particularly on vehicles fitted with aftermarket modifications.
Adhering strictly to BMW’s oil change and inspection schedule is critical, as out-of-warranty engine repairs on the twin-turbo V8 can be exceptionally costly.
Pros and Cons
Reviewing the overall package reveals that the M8 Competition is an exceptionally capable grand tourer with minor usability compromises:
- Pros:
- Supercar-level acceleration (3.0 seconds from 0-60 mph).
- Selectable M xDrive AWD system with a pure 2WD rear-wheel-drive mode.
- Comfortable, quiet highway cruising with standard adaptive suspension.
- Strong braking capability (stops from 60-0 mph in 104 feet).
-
Significant market discounts (averaging 15% off MSRP) on remaining inventory.
-
Cons:
- Rear seats are practically unusable for adult passengers.
- Button-heavy dashboard layout is less intuitive than modern curved screens.
- High first-year depreciation rates ($40,816 loss in Year 1).
- Convertible cargo space is severely restricted when the soft top is down.
- Steering feel is overly insulated and lacks connection to the road.
Competitor Comparison
The M8 Competition offers class-leading horsepower and acceleration for its price point, though rivals offer different driving dynamics.
Compared to the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, the BMW M8 is significantly more powerful and faster in a straight line for a lower starting price, though the Porsche provides a much lighter, more agile sports car feel. The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 is a more styling-focused convertible but offers less horsepower and a slower 0-60 mph time while costing slightly more. The Lexus LC 500 is the value and reliability play, saving buyers nearly $40,000, but it cannot compete with the M8’s raw performance.
| Vehicle | Base MSRP | Horsepower | 0-60 mph Acceleration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupe | $138,800 | 617 hp | 3.0 seconds |
| 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 55 | $141,300 | 469 hp | 3.8 seconds |
| 2024 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS | $150,900 | 473 hp | 3.2 seconds |
| 2024 Lexus LC 500 | $99,300 | 471 hp | 4.4 seconds |
Market Outlook and Decision Guidance
For buyers choosing between buying a 2024 BMW M8 or waiting for a newer model, the discontinuation of the Coupe variant is the primary deciding factor.
Because the M8 carries over to the next model year without any styling or mechanical changes, there is no performance benefit to waiting. However, BMW has officially confirmed that the two-door M8 Coupe is being discontinued globally after the 2025 model year, leaving only the Convertible and the four-door Gran Coupe in production.
Consequently, buyers seeking a brand-new two-door hardtop M8 Competition should act quickly on remaining 2024 dealership stock, as ordering options for the Coupe will cease. Choosing a remaining 2024 model also makes it easier to secure the typical 15% discount off MSRP compared to the newer model. For a comprehensive look at the final model-year updates and production timeline, read our 2025 BMW M8 Review before making a final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the 2024 BMW M8?
The 2024 BMW M8 Competition produces 617 horsepower and accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, though purchasing the optional M Driver’s Package raises the electronic limiter to 189 mph.
Is the 2024 BMW M8 reliable?
Yes, the 2024 BMW M8 is considered highly reliable for a high-performance luxury vehicle, holding a quality and reliability score of 4 out of 5 from J.D. Power. Common complaints are minor, including infotainment freezing and rapid brake pad wear on the standard steel brakes.
What is the difference between the M8 Coupe and Convertible?
The M8 Coupe starts at $138,800 and features a fixed carbon fiber roof, offering a lighter curb weight (4,251 lbs) and a consistent 12.4 cubic feet of trunk space. The M8 Convertible starts at $148,800 and uses a folding fabric soft top that adds roughly 300 lbs to the curb weight and severely compromises trunk space when lowered.
Should I buy a 2024 BMW M8 or wait for the 2025?
There are no styling, mechanical, or interior changes between the 2024 and 2025 model years. However, because BMW is discontinuing the Coupe body style after 2025, buying a remaining 2024 model is highly recommended to secure the largest dealer discounts (up to 15% off MSRP) while two-door inventory is still available.
