Aston Martin Virage

vs

BMW 850

UK vs Germany — 1989 vs 1996

Aston Martin Virage (1989)
BMW 850 (1996)
Specifications
Virage 6.3 Works Service850 CSi
Horsepower500 hp380 hp
Torque480 lb-ft406 lb-ft
Engine Size6,347 cc5,576 cc
0-60 mph4.6 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed171 mph155 mph
¼ Mile12.8 sec13.9 sec
Weight4,123 lbs3,946 lbs
Wheelbase2,610 mm2,684 mm
Length4,735 mm4,780 mm
Units Produced231,510
Original MSRP$350,000$102,000
Value (Excellent)$700,000$180,000
Collectibility8/109/10
Rarity9/108/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1996 BMW 850 CSi counters with stronger collectibility, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service for outright capability, or the 1996 BMW 850 CSi for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service versus 1996 BMW 850 CSi is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service holds a clear advantage in raw power with 500 hp compared to 380 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin Virage uses a V8 DOHC displacing 6,347 cc, while the BMW 850 relies on a V12 DOHC with 5,576 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service edges ahead at 4.6 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 23 units built, the 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service is considerably scarcer than the BMW 850's 1,510 examples. On the collector market, the 1989 Aston Martin Virage 6.3 Works Service commands a significant premium over the 1996 BMW 850 CSi, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.