Buy them before we do: used picks for 11 February
The BMW M760Li xDrive leads our used selection this week
We’ve driven a number of ludicrous limousines over the years, but few have earned the adjectives “epic” and “infallible”. One that has is the most extreme version of BMW’s 7 Series: the M760Li xDrive.
*BMW 760Li xDrive, £54,200*
Munich’s answer to the Audi S8 and Mercedes-AMG S65, the M760Li was the fastest BMW at the time of its launch in 2017, thanks to a twin-turbocharged 6.6-litre petrol V12 with 602bhp and 590lb ft. It had a supercar-baiting 0-62mph time of 3.7sec and a 189mph top speed (when fitted with the M Driver’s Pack).
As standard, the M760Li was equipped with four-wheel steering, an active exhaust, active anti-roll bars, M-tuned air springs, BMW’s xDrive four-wheel drive system and M brakes.
The other major difference from standard 7 Series variants was an M aerodynamic styling package that included reshaped bumpers, a matt grey grille, 20in wheels and ‘V12’ badges emblazoned everywhere.
Being a 7 Series, the M760Li was also geared towards comfort. Adaptive suspension meant drivers could choose from six driving modes that gave varying degrees of firmness, while nice-to-haves included parking sensors, a rear-view camera, four-zone climate control, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, a wi-fi hotspot, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats all round and Climate Comfort laminated glass.
The M760Li commanded a starting price of £132,310 in 2017, but prices on the used market have since dropped by more than half.
If you can live with the fuel costs (expect an economy figure of around 22mpg), look out for cars fitted with expensive optional extras. Most M760Li customers wouldn’t be afraid to spend on Alcantara headlining, massaging seats, remote parking, rear-seat entertainment or the V12 Excellence Pack, which added additional chrome styling.
We found an M760Li up for £54,200 with only 31,000 miles on the clock, and it came with a 12-month warranty, pre-sale inspection and full service history to sweeten the deal.
*Verdict:* Take it
*Ford Edge, £19,450*
The Ford Edge offered something to drivers who wanted a large SUV but couldn’t (or didn’t want to) pay premium prices. The car’s comfortable ride and decent equipment levels were offset by its plain economy interior, the lack of a seven-seat option and none of the driving dynamics that Ford cars are usually revered for.
*Verdict:* Leave it
*Hyundai Coupe, £3000*
The Hyundai Coupé is an ideal choice for drivers who want sports car looks yet also low costs, usable power and reliability. This second-generation example from 2005 is driven by the 165bhp 2.6-litre V6 engine, meaning a 0-62mph time of 8.3sec. It appeals thanks to just 62,000 driven miles, a recently fitted new clutch, a full service history and a fresh MOT.
*Verdict:* Take it
*Mazda RX-8*
The RX-8 is an attractive car with Mazda’s unique Wankel engine technology. This 2004 example is enticing at £999, but the seller says it suffers from an occasional loss of power. Engine rebuilds can cost around £2000, according to specialist The Performance Shop, and you can buy a good RX-8 for cheaper than that repair bill.
*Verdict: Leave it*