In October 1993, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW presented the third generation flagship 7-Series sedan in the E38 body. Despite the fact that the public liked the model, it entered the assembly line only in June 1994. The car was produced until 2001 and gained popularity among car enthusiasts around the world, including in Russia. In total, the Bavarian manufacturer produced 340,242 examples of the BMW E38.

Many believe that the “seven” in the back of the E38 is the last “correct” model of this series, because the next generation (E65/E66) received a radically new design.

Just looking at the BMW 7-series sedan in the E38 body, it becomes clear that this is a real flagship. For all its solidity and solidity, the car looks sporty and smart. The lowered hood, slightly “frowning” headlights, as well as the signature “nostrils” of the radiator grille add to the aggressiveness of the appearance.

The profile of the third-generation BMW 7-Series is distinguished by a large glass area, an elongated hood and a long tail, as well as an almost flat roof that flows into a powerful C-pillar. The rear of the sedan is massive, and it is topped with small and neat lights.

Now about specific numbers. The length of the “seven” is 4985 mm (for the long-wheelbase version – 5125 mm), and the distance between the axles is 2930 mm (3070 mm). The width and height in both cases are unchanged - 1862 mm and 1425 mm, respectively. Depending on the modification, the curb weight of the car varies from 1905 to 2235 kg.

The interior of the BMW 7 Series in the E38 body fully corresponds to the status of the car - attractive design, ergonomics thought out to the smallest detail, high-quality finishing materials. The dashboard is simple, but at the same time informative and functional. The control units for the entertainment system and dual-zone climate control are located on the center console.

The sedan has a spacious interior. The wide front seats have a fairly developed profile, wide cushions and thick padding, and there is enough space for riders of almost any size.

The rear seat of the “seven” with a standard wheelbase hints with its layout that it is designed for two people – this is evidenced by two headrests and a high transmission tunnel. The long-wheelbase car provides truly royal accommodation for rear passengers - here you can easily cross your legs.

Regardless of modification, the BMW E38 boasts a 500-liter luggage compartment. Its shape is not very convenient, but the loading height is small, which makes loading heavy luggage easier.

Specifications. The third generation BMW 7-Series was equipped with four petrol and one diesel engines.
The gasoline part includes units with 6, 8 and 12 cylinders. With a displacement of 2.8 to 5.4 liters, they produce from 193 to 326 horsepower and from 280 to 490 Nm of peak torque. Each of the diesel engines is equipped with a turbocharging system, and with a volume of 2.5 to 3.9 liters they generate 143-245 “horses” and 280-560 Nm of thrust. Power units are combined with a “mechanics” with five or six gears, or a 5-speed “automatic”, as well as a rear-wheel drive transmission.
Even with the lowest-power engine, the executive sedan accelerates to hundreds in 12.2 seconds, and with the top-end one in just 6.8 seconds. The maximum speed varies from 202 to 250 km/h.
But the “seven” cannot be called a standard of fuel efficiency - a 143-horsepower diesel engine requires 9.5 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km, while a 326-horsepower gasoline unit requires 13.6 liters of fuel (passport data).

The BMW 7 Series with E38 body uses a fully independent suspension, represented by a double-wishbone arrangement at the front and a four-link at the rear. Each wheel is equipped with disc brakes with a ventilation system.

Equipment and prices. The third generation “Seven” is still in demand on the Russian market. Depending on the modification and level of equipment, prices for a BMW 7-Series in a 38-body (as of 2014) start from 200,000 – 250,000 rubles, and for the most recent and “rich” copies can reach 600,000 – 650,000 rubles . It is worth noting that even the basic equipment of the E38 includes power accessories, a dual-zone climate control system, a multifunctional steering wheel and standard music.

In 1993, BMW presented the completely redesigned third generation of the 7 Series luxury sedans at the Frankfurt Motor Show. BMW E38, and since 1994 the car began to be produced at the Dingolfing plant.

The car was produced from 1994 to 2001 and over the entire period 327,560 units of the car were produced.

Design

Interior

The harmonious shapes and special quality of materials in the interior of the E38 have formed their own inner world of mobility and cabin comfort.

The BMW E38 was equipped with an electric sunroof, an audio system with 14 speakers and four subwoofers, a 6-disc CD changer, on-board satellite navigation (on models 1994-1996 based on the VDO Dayton-Carin system, from 1997-2000 based on Phillips systems with a separate Trimble Navigation receiver, 2001 models based on the Phillips system with a built-in Trimble Navigation receiver), automatic climate control system with separate controls for the driver and passenger. As an option, it was possible to order air conditioning with automatic climate control in the rear of the cabin, the controls and display were located on the center console.

The standard multifunction steering wheel integrates buttons for radio, cruise control and air conditioning recirculation, allowing functions to be operated easily and safely without taking your hands off the wheel.

Automatic climate control with automatic air recirculation, micro-filter and activated carbon filter ensures air purification and distribution. The filter purifies the air in the interior from harmful gases and even from many odors.

Standard automatic climate control keeps the air temperature slightly cooler than in the lower part of the car, thereby creating a comfortable atmosphere inside the car.

Technical characteristics of the BMW E38

Engines and model range

The 740th model became the most popular during the entire production of the E38, it was produced in quantities of 129,356 and 740iL - 50,933 copies.

Four months after production began, the top-of-the-line 750i model and the particularly popular long-wheelbase version were launched in September 1994 with a 5.4-litre engine and a ZF 5-speed automatic transmission.

In 1995, a basic version with . The exceptional performance of the 728i has made it one of the most successful models in the series.

In 1996, the first diesel version of the 7 Series was introduced - with two valves per cylinder. Due to the E38's weight (1,905 to 2,235 kg), the car was low in performance but could provide low fuel consumption.

Also in 1996, a limited edition version was introduced, which is more luxurious than the 750iL, but with the same engine as the 750 model - the M73B54. The luxury model had a sliding partition between the front and rear seats, a telephone, and a refrigerator.

In 1996, to replace the 730 version, BMW also released an extended version of the 735iL with a V8 engine - M62.

In 1998, the E38 joined the E38 model range, equipped with a diesel power unit with a capacity of -.

In 1999, the top-end diesel version was launched with a 3.9-liter TwinTurbo turbo diesel engine.

	Motors	Volume, cubic cm	Power, hp	Torque, Nm
728i	M52B28 M52TUB28	2793 2793	193 193	282 282
730i	M60B30	2997	218	290
735i	M62B35 M62TUB35	3498 3498	235 238	320 345
740i	M60B40 M62B44 M62TUB44	3982 4398 4398	286 286 290	400 440 440
750i/iL	M73B54 M73TUB54	5379 5379	326 326	490 490
725tds	M51D25S	2498	143	280
730d	M57D29 M57D29	2926 2926	184 193	410 430
740d	M67D39 M67D39	3901 3901	238 245	560 560
L7	M73B54 M73TUB54	5379 5379	326 326	490 490

Transmission

The BMW E38 7 Series was offered with either a 5-speed automatic or manual transmission on the 730d, 740d, 740i/iL, and 750i/iL with a ZF 5-speed automatic.

Dimensions

BMW E38 facelift

In 1998, the E38 body was updated. The front part of the car was tightened, the rear lights were updated, a sports suspension was installed, new wheels and a hydraulic converter were installed.

In addition, the 7 Series received a new Sport package (originally available on the 740i), improved automatic climate control, front side airbags and a standard head protection system.

The E38 7 Series was discontinued in 2001 and was replaced by the 4th generation.

Video BMW E38

• • Alexey, Irkutsk. I bought my seven BMW E38 in 2015, in very poor condition. But he really took it for pennies, so he threw it into repairs and got a doll. At first, the consumption was 23 liters in the city, but after they rebuilt the engine and replaced the wheels with 16, the consumption dropped to 17 in the city and 12 on the highway - this is with a 4-liter engine. I drove it for a year and am planning to sell it - firstly, it is very expensive in gasoline, and secondly, it is very expensive in maintenance and repair, I’m tired of constantly spending money.
  • Georgy, Omsk. The BMW E38 is a car of such quality that you can no longer find it even from the Germans. If your hands grow from where they need to be, it is not as expensive to maintain as it is believed. Despite the fact that my 735i was released back in 1998, it breaks down in small ways and mostly everything is connected with the chassis. The motor and gearbox work perfectly. Consumption in the city is 17 liters - a lot, I agree, and the engine is powerful. And on the highway you can do it at 9-10.

External review of the BMW E38

The appearance of the executive Bavarian is notable for the fact that this is the second car of the brand, after the 3-series E36, with glazed headlight lenses. The car is offered with only one body type - sedan. The sedan can be with a standard wheelbase and extended by 100mm, while the car becomes longer by 140mm. The long wheelbase version can be identified by its wider rear doors and the "iL" inscription on the rear ("L" stands for Long). The long-wheelbase modification could be equipped with any engine, except for the petrol 2.8 and diesel 2.5t. The design of the 7 became the prototype for the 5 in the E39 body - note the similarities between the two models. In 1998, modernization was carried out; the updated “seven” is most easily recognized by the headlights rounded at the bottom.

Interior equipment and configurations of the E38

The BMW seventh series was equipped with a foot parking brake, not a handbrake, the seats have a lot of electrical adjustments, even the headrest is adjustable by a servo drive. Heated steering wheel rim was offered as an option. The car can be equipped with ten airbags. In the glove compartment, in front of the passenger, there is a flashlight that is attached to a charger - you can take it out. The optional fourteen-speaker audio system produces 440 watts. Often, the sevens of the last years of production were equipped with a massage.

The luggage compartment has a volume of 500 liters, which is quite enough for a family car (the thirty-eighth is often used in this role today). There is a battery in the luggage compartment. The “pressing” function of the trunk lid indicates the premium quality of this vehicle.

Technical part and characteristics of the BMW 7-series E38

The least powerful gasoline engine of the BMW 7-series E38 was 2.8 (M52 engine series). The six-cylinder unit developed 193 horsepower, and even this engine made the sedan quite dynamic; it took a BMW with a manual 8.6 seconds to accelerate to hundreds; with an automatic transmission, acceleration lasted a second longer.

The next most powerful model among gasoline modifications was the 730i with a 3.0 V8 M60 engine, which in 1996 was replaced by a 3.5 with 235 horsepower M62 - BMW 735. These three engines were not available in the States; only powerful sedans were supplied to the USA. The 740i version initially had a volume of 4.0 liters, but in 1996 the volume was increased to 4.4, the model was still called 740i, while the power remained virtually unchanged - 285 horsepower before and 286 after the modernization. The most powerful and most desirable is the 750i with a 5.4-liter twelve-cylinder unit, 326 horses and a torque of 490Nm, the engine belongs to the M73 series. The 750i reaches the first hundred in 6.6 seconds, the top speed of the “seven” is electronically limited to 250 km.

The least slow-moving of all sevens is the 725td with 143 horsepower; with a manual, the diesel Bavarian reaches a hundred in 11.5 s, and with an automatic in 12.2 s - not Bavarianly slow. The diesel 730d has a power of 193 hp, and the 740d has 245 hp. Diesel versions were also not delivered to the states.

All power units have an aluminum block, which is considered to be beyond major repairs, but our craftsmen have learned how to line it. Before a major overhaul, gasoline engines run for 400-700 thousand, but it is worth remembering that overheating is the worst enemy for a BMW; the cooling radiator should be cleaned at least once a year. There are known cases of engine breakdowns due to water hammer; the air intake is located quite low, so you should slow down before large puddles.

Only the “weakest” versions with petrol 2.8 and diesel 2.5 were equipped with manual transmissions in the base; other versions already came with five-speed automatic transmissions as standard. The E38 automatic transmission is one of the world's first adaptive automatic transmissions, which can adapt to the driver's driving style (AGS system).

An optional tire pressure system was offered, which notified the driver of low or, conversely, high tire pressure. The 7-Series E38 introduced the Break Control system, which, when you press the brake pedal sharply, increases the pressure in the brake circuit; in those years, such a system was found only on very expensive cars.

Front stabilizer struts cost 35,000 each. Front suspension silent blocks cost 50,000, and ball joints cost 100,000, but they should only be replaced with levers (like silent blocks).

The upper arms of the rear suspension are made of aluminum and therefore last less than the lower ones - 60 - 90 nsc, while the lower ones last 200 and even 250 thousand.

The 750i was equipped as standard with an air suspension that can raise the body by 5 cm; for other modifications this system is an option.

BMW E38 7 Series (1995-2002).
Description, technical characteristics and photographs.

3rd generation sedans BMW 7-series E38 luxury class was first introduced in 1995.

The BMW 7 Series was produced in the following variants: 725tdi, 730d, 730i, 735i, 740i, 740iL, 750iL, 740iL Protection and 750iL Protection. Cars in the "Protection" series are equipped with bulletproof glass, parts that enhance body protection, and wheels that can be driven even if they are completely deflated.

It should be clear right away: the car is not exactly a luxury car.

BMWs are famous for their sportiness, therefore, if we talk about smoothness and quietness, the “seven” is partly inferior to its competitors.

The car even looks faster than its classmates: a low hood topped with the signature “nostrils” of the radiator grille, large windows.

Despite the large external dimensions, there is not much space inside. The driver sits as if in the cockpit of a fighter jet - he is surrounded by instruments and buttons for controlling auxiliary systems.

The center console is traditionally slightly turned towards it with its front side.

The 750iL version is additionally equipped with a Park Distance Control system, a 5-speed automatic transmission, a self-adjusting suspension, a cell phone with voice dialing, heated front and rear seats, an audio system consisting of 14 speakers with a power of 440 watts and aluminum wheels. The ventilation and temperature control system allows you to set different climates for the driver and passengers in the front and rear seats.

The BMW 7 Series was also offered with a limousine body extended by 13 cm (740iL, 750iL) and a stretch body extended by 38 cm (BMW 750iXL). All the extra space is provided to the rear passengers, who can practically stretch out their legs. Luxury certainly reigns here. The chic Bimmer has retained all the family advantages - excellent dynamics and handling.

Thanks to the flagship V12, developing 326 horsepower, the limousine accelerates to hundreds in just over six seconds.

In terms of smoothness, BMW engineers have found a compromise between handling and comfort. The car is smooth enough to meet the requirements of the executive class, and precise enough in response to please the driver who knows a lot about driving fast. Yes, you can drive on straight autobahns in any of the German flagships, but only the BMW also performs superbly on winding roads. The relatively stiff suspension is difficult to “break through”, even if you drive into a serious pothole at high speed.

Technical characteristics of the BMW E38

"Sevens", in addition, are equipped with several airbags for both front and rear seat passengers. Moreover, the new Head Protection System, which is an inflatable umbrella that unfolds diagonally from the windshield pillar to the roof above the rear door, provides protection for the heads of passengers sitting in front. The safety of those seated in the rear is ensured by airbags built into the doors. The car is also equipped with locks that block the doors from opening by children, a Dynamic Stability Control system and built-in sensors that automatically open the doors and turn on the hazard and interior lights in the event of a serious accident.	Modification	Doors	Volume cm3	Power (hp) Max.	speed (Km/h) Overclocking	up to (100 km/h,s)	Start of release
Finish release
730 i
725 tds
728 i L
728i
728i
730d
Finish release
730 iL
735i
740 d L
740 d
740 i L
740 i
750 i L

750 i	MODEL 1994-1998	E38 730i 1996-1998	E38 735i 1994-2001	E38 740i 1994-2001
E38 750i
BODY
Body type
Number of doors
Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
Wheelbase
Front/rear wheel track, mm
Ground clearance, mm
Vehicle curb weight, kg
Permissible total weight, kg
Trunk volume max./min., l
Tire size
ENGINE
Engine location	Front, longitudinal
Engine volume, cm3
Number and arrangement of cylinders	V-shaped/8	V-shaped/8	V-shaped/8	V-shaped/12
Piston stroke, mm
Cylinder diameter
Compression ratio
Gas distribution mechanism
Number of valves per cylinder
Supply system	Distributed injection
Power, hp
Torque(N*m)
Fuel
TRANSMISSION
Drive unit

The classic silhouette and well-designed interior have made the third generation BMW 7 a dream for many car enthusiasts. BMW with model code E38 debuted in 1994. Just two years later, the engine line was revised, and in 1998, restyling was carried out. A characteristic feature of the updated version is headlights with enlarged round reflectors. In 2001, a generational change occurred.

The BMW 7 Series E38 is, in a sense, a cult car. A significant contribution to this was made by Pierce Brosnan (James Bond, Tomorrow Never Dies), Jason Statham (The Transporter), and of course the Russian film Boomer.

The car was offered only as a sedan. The length of 4.98 meters and the wheelbase of 2.93 meters indicate that we are dealing with a representative of the highest class. On the secondary market you can find an extended version with the letter “L”, which has a length of 5.12 meters and a wheelbase of 3.07 m.

As befits a flagship, there is nothing to complain about the level of equipment of the BMW e38. Even in the very first copies, there is a dual-zone climate control system on board (though with manual control), a multifunction steering wheel, a front panel decorated with walnut wood elements, and velor upholstery. Leather trim was included in the list of options. Later models featured a DSC dynamic stability control system, a telephone built into the center console, navigation with a screen and a TV tuner (standard equipment since 2000). Copies from the last years of production even have active cruise control. Many owners have expressed gratitude to BMW engineers for excellent ergonomics, excellent interior design, plenty of free space and power seats with a fair number of adjustments.

Classic and functional. Age is revealed by burnt pixels on the amber displays, cracks in the leather of the seats and creaking plastic.

The oldest BMW e38 models had only two airbags as standard (side airbags were available as an option) and an HPS head protection system. In extended versions, makeup mirrors or additional television screens could be installed in the headrests. Wooden folding tables could also be installed in the backs of the front seats. For an additional fee, an optional audio system with 14 speakers, up to 4 subwoofers and a digital sound equalizer was installed in the German sedan.

The car is wide, but it is uncomfortable to sit in the middle due to the profile of the sofa and the high tunnel.

Engines

At first, the car was offered only with petrol V8s with a displacement of 3.0 liters and 4.0 liters. In addition, there was a flagship V12 with a capacity of 5.4 liters and a power of 326 hp. In subsequent years, more modest inline 6-cylinder engines appeared: 2.8 liter gasoline and 2.5 liter and 2.9 liter diesel engines. The latter became widely popular in Europe, and the model was designated 730d. After the update in 1998, the model range was replenished with a diesel engine - a V8 with a displacement of 4.0 liters.

What problems plague BMW e38 owners? First of all, this is overheating of gasoline engines. The cooling system requires constant monitoring of its condition. In addition, the pump often fails. Sometimes oil leaks from the crankshaft seals, cylinder head or oil filter are expensive to fix. One of the common ailments of cars with gasoline units is corrosion of the fuel tank.

Car enthusiasts with a little money will be better suited to the BMW e 38 with the weakest 2.8-liter engine in the lineup. This is the only 6-cylinder engine in the gasoline range. It handles the weight of a large sedan quite well and is inexpensive to maintain. The 3-liter naturally aspirated engine is much more dynamic. But many copies have an exorbitant oil appetite. The 3.5-liter unit is no less interesting. It already allows you to fully experience all the delights of the “seven”.

The costs of maintaining a BMW E38 increase in proportion to the power of the power unit. So the 4.4-liter unit is too power-hungry, and the cost of repairing the V12 will be simply astronomical. Finding spare parts is difficult and there are no substitutes. There are also two engine control wiring harnesses, two computers and two fuel systems. In fact, the V12 is two in-line sixes combined into a single unit.

Particular care must be taken when choosing a diesel BMW 7. The base 2.5 TDS is too weak for this model. Not only is a sedan with such an engine very sluggish, but the engine also suffers from numerous defects. The fuel injection pump and cylinder head are the most vulnerable.

Among diesel engines, the most acceptable choice is the 2.9-liter unit. This turbodiesel was once considered the best in its class. Unfortunately, over time it becomes more and more expensive to operate. The injectors fail (the cost of a new one is more than 10,000 rubles), the pulley, and the flow meter. Expensive repairs can be caused by exhaust gases escaping into the engine crankcase or a worn-out turbocharger. Interestingly, due to the fact that the engines are paired with an automatic transmission, the dual-mass flywheel does not present any problems for a very long time.

We strongly recommend avoiding the BMW E38 with the top-end diesel V8 with a displacement of 3.9 liters and twin turbocharging. The engine is considered a true masterpiece of engineering, but only 3,500 of these units were produced. Therefore, it is better not to even mention possible repair costs. You also need to keep in mind that the huge torque of 590 Nm is poorly digested by the automatic transmission and differential. Periodic oil changes will extend the life of the machine.

In accordance with tradition, all BMW E38 engines are equipped with a maintenance-free timing chain. The manufacturer recommends only periodically monitoring its condition. In reality, the timing drive needs updating after 300,000 km.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Most copies have numerous problems. Most often from the electricians, who do not tolerate unprofessional intervention and savings. Already in 1998, a liquid-cooled generator became standard equipment for cars with V8 and V12 engines. The cost of a new one is about 35,000 rubles. Used units often have faulty monitors, indicators, various sensors and additional equipment. Relatively often, the climate control unit fails.

Due to the large amount of electrical equipment, the battery has a short service life.

The BMW E38 suspension for a car of this class is quite cheap to repair. For about 15,000 rubles, you can replace all the silent blocks and ball blocks on one axis. However, versions with active self-leveling hydropneumatic rear axle suspension should be avoided. Restoring just one sphere with nitrogen will require at least 8,000 rubles, and a shock absorber - about 15,000 rubles. A new shock absorber will cost 30,000 rubles.

The suspension is considered durable. The first problems begin to arise after 150-200 thousand km. There are many high-quality substitutes on the market.

Pre-restyling models often have poorly fitted window frames.

During the inspection, it is necessary to check the condition of the body. Even cars that have never been in an accident (and there are very few of them) can rust. Traces of corrosion should be looked for on the trunk lid, in the corners of the doors, on the edges of the wings and under the door seals.

Automatic machines of pre-restyling versions are considered unkillable.

Conclusion

The BMW 7 Series e38 is not a car for everyone. A copy in good condition will give many pleasant moments. Durability is rated quite highly. However, maintaining a good condition requires large financial costs. The most preferred are 8-cylinder gasoline engines with a displacement of 3.5, 4.0 and 4.4 liters.

Technical specifications BMW 7 Series (E38) 1994 – 2001

Version	728i	735i	740i	750i	730 i
Engine	petrol	petrol	petrol	petrol	turbodiz
Working volume	2793 cm3	3498 cm3	4398 cm3	5379 cm3	2497 cm3
Cylinder/Valve Arrangement	R6/24	V8/24	V8/24	V12/48	R6/12
Maximum power	193 hp / 5300	235 hp / 5700	286 hp / 5700	326 hp / 5000	143 hp / 4600
Maximum torque	280 Nm / 3950	320 Nm / 3300	420 Nm / 3900	490 Nm / 3900	280 Nm / 2200
Dynamics (manufacturer)
Maximum speed	227 km/h	244 km/h	250 km/h	250 km/h	206 km/h
0-100 km/h	8.6 s	7.6 s	6.6 s	6.6 s	11.4 s
Average fuel consumption	7.8 l/100 km	8.9 l/100 km	8.9 l/100 km	10.2 l / 100 km	6.2 l/100 km