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Message: <blockquote data-quote="tzhao" data-source="post: 360106" data-attributes="member: 13705">While it did supplant the original E24 based 6 Series in 1991, a common misconception is that the 8 Series was developed as a successor. However, it was actually an entirely new class aimed at a different market, with a substantially higher price point and better performance than the 6 series. The 8 Series was designed as a direct competitor to the upcoming Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and S-Class coupes (later renamed the CL-Class). While it has less rear passenger volume than the CL which is considered a two-door sedan, the 8 Series could accommodate two passengers in the rear, while the SL roadster is a two-seater. The BMW 8 Series was BMW's flagship car while in production. Accounting for inflation, a new model cost above $110,000 and had an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). Although with the limiters removed, the top speed was estimated at 186 mph (299 km/h). Worldwide production ceased on May 12, 1999, with 30,621 built. BMW is rumored to have plans to revive the 8 Series name for a potential "four-door coupe," much like the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. The existing E63/E64 6-Series two-door coupe currently competes with the CLS-Class in that price point.<img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e166/Kirstym1/ef_4.jpg?t=1246619375" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></blockquote>