When it comes to ticking boxes off a car enthusiast’s bucket list, this one’s a biggie. I’ve just bought myself what many would call an affordable supercar. Yes, I recently said goodbye to another dream car of mine—my Tesla Model 3 Performance—and you can read all about that journey here. But as one chapter ends, another begins. Allow me to introduce its stunning replacement: the BMW i8.
Is It Really a Supercar?
Now, is the BMW i8 strictly a supercar? That depends on who you ask. On one hand, its performance figures don’t quite reach the dizzying heights of traditional supercars. On the other, its design, technology, and innovative engineering certainly make a strong case.
The Basics: A 2015 BMW i8
Let’s start with the basics. This is a 2015 BMW i8, a car that was years ahead of its time when it launched. It’s a plug-in hybrid sports car with a petrol-electric setup that gives you the best of both worlds. You can drive it in pure electric mode, though with its modest battery range, that’s not really the point. The i8 shines when you combine its electric and petrol power, delivering a dynamic and thrilling driving experience. Back in its heyday, if you wanted a hybrid supercar, you were looking at the likes of the McLaren P1 or LaFerrari, which required significantly deeper pockets. Enter the BMW i8, offering hybrid thrills at a fraction of the cost.
When new, the car would have cost over £100,000, but that’s not what I paid. The cars are now a fraction of their original purchase price. In fact, you could argue that I’ve just bought the cheapest BMW i8 in the country (today). Is this a bargain supercar? Perhaps.
Design That Turns Heads
Let’s address the scissor doors first—they’re as dramatic as they sound and are guaranteed to grab attention. Made from a mix of aluminium, carbon fibre, and thermoplastic, these doors are almost 50% lighter than conventional ones. Pair that with the i8’s carbon fibre tub and sleek futuristic silhouette, and you’ve got a car that looks like it rolled straight out of a concept sketch.
The i8’s design wasn’t just about aesthetics. Lightweight materials, aerodynamic lines, and a low centre of gravity all contribute to its impressive performance. Despite being nearly 10 years old, the i8 remains iconic for its innovation and forward-thinking approach.
What’s Under the Hood (and the Floor)?
The BMW i8 packs a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor. Together, they produce a combined 357 bhp, allowing the car to hit 0-60 mph in around 4.4 seconds. It may not have the brute force of a Lamborghini or Ferrari, but its hybrid drivetrain makes it unique and undeniably fun to drive. The i8 also features self-charging capabilities as well as plug-in functionality, adding to its versatility.
A Special Place in BMW’s History
BMW has since stopped making the i8, which adds to its allure. It’s a car that captured a moment in automotive history when manufacturers were experimenting with hybrid technology in sports cars. While it may not have the latest tech, its engineering and design still feel special, and its rarity will only grow with time.
A BMW Inside
Step inside the i8, and you’re greeted with an interior that’s more BMW than supercar. It’s luxurious, comfortable, and well-appointed, but it doesn’t scream “exotic” like some of its rivals. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—it’s a car you can enjoy without sacrificing usability.
Why the BMW i8?
Beyond its striking looks and hybrid innovation, the i8 represents incredible value for money. At the time of purchase, it’s one of the most affordable uncatted cars in the UK. That makes it an attainable dream for enthusiasts like me who want something unique without breaking the bank.
I bought the i8 from the Staffordshire Car Company, and Gordon and Nathan were incredibly helpful in getting the deal done. Gordon was especially accommodating, allowing me to pick up the car on Christmas Eve after hours. I managed to find a gap in the festive family celebrations to make the six-hour round trip (300-ish miles) to collect the car. It was worth every mile.
What’s Next?
So, what’s next for my BMW i8? I’ll be documenting my ownership journey right here on the blog. Whether it’s upgrades, road trips, or simply enjoying what this car has to offer, I can’t wait to share it all with you.
Stay tuned for more updates as I dive into life with this incredible machine.
What do you think of the BMW i8? Is it a supercar in your eyes? Let me know in the comments!
