Overview & Reviews

Since its introduction for the 1978 model year, the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan has remained true to its original character. It's the BMW flagship, and this full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan has always represented the pinnacle of technology and luxury in the German automaker's lineup. As such, it's an obvious choice for discerning buyers seeking a spacious and elegant sedan with a high level of curbside prestige.

There's a fair amount of competition in this elite vehicle class, but the 7 Series sedan's athletic handling dynamics have long set it apart, starting with the early 733s and carrying through to the five present-day 7 Series models. While other manufacturers have historically been content to build high-end sedans with soft, serene rides, BMW engineers its 7s to engage their drivers on an emotional level. There are a few recent contenders that have gone after this emotional engagement, so the 7 Series is no longer the only game in town, but it remains a prime luxury sedan for people who like to drive.

Current BMW 7 Series
The current 7 Series is offered in five different models. The 740i and long-wheelbase 740Li feature a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 315 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The 750i and 750Li feature a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that cranks out 445 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line 760Li features a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 535 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive are standard across the board, while all-wheel drive ("xDrive") is optional for the 740 and 750 models. All are very quick, with even the 740i being able to run from zero to 60 mph in a claimed 5.6 seconds.

The 7 Series boasts a handsome, spacious interior with supple leather and rich wood accents adorning almost every surface. Highly adjustable front seats ensure comfort for virtually every body type. The 7 also showcases a wealth of high-tech luxury features such as a night-vision camera and sideview cameras. Some may still find the iDrive electronics interface system a bit complicated, but we think the current model's improved layout is an elegant solution to a button-heavy dashboard.

Although rear passenger space is limolike, especially in Li form, the 7 Series remains a standout in the handling department. The "Dynamic Driving Control" system contributes to this status, featuring four different settings that alter the driving characteristics of the car. We'd bet good money that most folks will leave it on "Normal," but it certainly rewards owners who like to customize their cars to their own driving tastes. Only recently has the 7 Series begun to be challenged by athletic new rivals in this segment.

Used BMW 7 Series Models
The current, fifth-generation 7 Series debuted for 2009. Compared to the controversial previous model, its styling is considerably more restrained, with tauter bodywork and a conventional trunk design. The interior is also more traditional. The gear selector has migrated from the steering column back to the center console, for example, and the iDrive electronics interface is vastly improved. Turbocharged engines are now the norm for BMW's top sedan.

There have been a handful of notable changes during the current 7 Series' production run. In its first year, the big Bimmer could only be had in 750i or 750Li trim with rear-wheel drive. The 760Li arrived for 2010, while the 740i debuted the following year, becoming the first six-cylinder 7 Series in two decades. For 2013, the 750's twin-turbo V8 was upgraded from its original output (400 hp, 450 lb-ft) to current levels, while the 740 received a new inline-6 with a single turbocharger in place of the original twin-turbo engine. The iDrive interface was also updated for 2013, and an eight-speed automatic became the standard transmission on all 7 Series models.

The previous-generation BMW 7 Series was produced from 2002-'08 and was by far the most radical version of the nameplate. Traditional exterior styling cues from the previous 25 years were largely abandoned in favor of a more aggressive, avant-garde design. The car was still recognizable as a 7 Series, but many purists found the look abrasive. A refresh for 2006 smoothed out some of the harsher elements, but it's still a stretch to call this car beautiful, whether in standard-wheelbase 750i or long-wheelbase 750Li/760Li form (previously known as "iL").

With the exception of 2002, when only a V8 was offered, the fourth-generation 7 Series lineup always included sophisticated eight- and 12-cylinder engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 745i and 745Li sold from 2002-'05 were equipped with a 325-hp 4.4-liter V8, while the 750i and 750Li that succeeded them had a 360-hp 4.8-liter V8. The 750s were slightly heavier, so performance was about the same as for the 745s.

Offered continuously from 2003, the 760Li had a 6.0-liter V12 capable of 438 hp. Unlike the V8s, which are eager to rev, the V12 delivers a massive wave of thrust as soon as you nudge the accelerator pedal. BMW offered a short-wheelbase 760i from 2004-'06.

The edgy exterior styling of this generation carried over to the cabin, where BMW's typically button-heavy control layout gave way to an all-in-one system called iDrive that governed climate, audio and navigation functions via a single console-mounted dial and a central display. Although iDrive assured the 7's place in the information age, its steep learning curve proved bewildering for many a 7 Series driver. During the car's lifespan, iDrive was consistently upgraded, so newer models will come with later (and less maddening) versions of this control device. Be sure to thoroughly exercise the iDrive system before purchasing a 7 Series of this vintage.

Despite its quirks, the 2002-'08 BMW 7 Series proved quite popular, not least because of its superb driving experience. Here BMW applied its arsenal of technology to great effect, as features like self-stiffening antiroll bars, self-leveling air springs and adaptive shock absorbers worked together to keep the big sedan exceptionally stable when driven hard. However, it's complexity like this that makes the fourth-generation 7 Series an intimidating used car in terms of expected maintenance costs. "Buyer beware" is the operative phrase here.

The third-generation 7 Series, sold from 1995-2001, is generally regarded as a high point in the model's history. It was a true driver's car just like today's 7, but there was less in-car technology to distract from the task at hand. And most people agree that its sleek, classically styled body is easier on the eyes.

The model lineup included the regular-wheelbase 740i sedan, which was offered every year except 1996, and the long-wheelbase 740iL and 750iL, which had an uninterrupted run. The BMW 740s were powered by a 282-hp 4.4-liter (4.0-liter in 1995) V8, while the 750iL had a 5.4-liter V12 good for 326 hp. All 7s came with a five-speed automatic transmission. Either setup provided strong acceleration, but fuel economy was poor by today's standards.

A well-kept third-generation 7 Series could be a rewarding purchase if you've got the time and budget to keep it on the road. The main advantage to choosing a car from later in the model cycle is added standard feature content. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control system, for example, debuted across the line for 1998. Quality was generally excellent on these cars, but like most high-end German products, this 7 Series can incur hefty repair costs over time.

Similar in style and focus to its successor, the second-generation BMW 7 Series was on sale from 1988-'94. This was the first 7 Series to include both regular- and long-wheelbase models, the advantage to the latter being increased rear legroom. For most of the cycle, the base engine was a 208-hp 3.4-liter inline six-cylinder offered in 735i and 735iL models. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard, but a five-speed manual was offered as well. The 282-hp 4.0-liter V8 replaced the inline-6 in 1993, yielding the 740i and 740iL, both of which took a five-speed automatic only. The BMW 750iL was offered throughout the run; the first V12-equipped BMW, it had a 296-hp 5.0-liter engine and a four-speed automatic.

The first-generation BMW 7 Series enjoyed a long run from 1978-'87. It was the largest sedan the company had ever built and directly targeted the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. All 7s of this era were powered by an inline six-cylinder engine.

User Reviews:

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  Super fast and smooth saloon - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By Szutao L - February 21 - 11:00 pm

  Got this car used for a fraction of msrp. My strongest impression is the low rpm punch and the acceleration. Engine and transmission is super smooth, lots of features are standard, interior is classy. Lots of room, very comfortable for long rides, especially passengers. Seat adjustment was unbelievable. Exterior look was an improvement with facelift, going back to classic bmw look. Why wont you buy a cpo executive car, it is a bargain.

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  Great Cars!!! - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By BMW man - February 16 - 11:47 pm

  I own a Z4 and 530 but obviously this is my absolute favorite. This car is powerful but a bit touchy on take off but very smooth when switching gears. All of the options are a bit confusing at first but now I like them. I get more than enough looks and comments when I drive it. Im 65" and 240 lbs and this vehicle adjusts to my size very easily with more than enough fun and comfortable features. If you want something to brag about and be admired, this is the car for you!!!

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  Update #2 Ultimate Texas Driving Machine - 2000 BMW 7-Series
  By raiderwes - January 17 - 10:53 am

  Car now has 95k miles. At 85k mi nav unit in trunk failed replaced with used unit/upgrade ($250). At 93k car developed minor leak - valve cover gasket. Put new Mich Pilot Sport + after 30K on the Kumhos. At 94k air mass meter failed along with PCV valve fixed valve cover gasket at same time totaling $1400. Car averages 15k mi between oil changes, though I will start doing it substantially more often now. Still the most fun car Ive ever owned and cant get excited about anything else out there. Overall, I have not had that much trouble with the car. I dont see much in the way of keeping it another 25-30k miles after that, well see.

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  Rocket on 4 wheels - 1995 BMW 7-Series
  By Mike - January 16 - 6:14 pm

  I purchased a 740IL 2 years ago (my fav.car) to give to my wife. She and I are in love with this car. I cant speak more highly about the workmanship, the quality and the performance. The power of the V8 is extremely impressive and the sound it makes when you take a Mustang, Camaro, or even a Corvette off the line leaves them wondering what just happened to them. As of now we own 2 Bimmers the 95 740il and a 95 525i, these are our two favorite cars out of the 9 we own. With all of the said we have had to replace many parts and as of right now the 7 has to go in the shop due to the fact it will not start or even turn over, But I still love the car.

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  Beware of night vision - 2008 BMW 7-Series
  By Fustrated w/BMW - December 29 - 11:24 am

  Stay away from night vision. I thought it would be great option but be warned, it is not. It is difficult to use as a driver and by time you see something, there is no time to react. But the downside is that the engineers mounted the camera in a place where rocks and debris can easily damage the lens. I didnt have 3k miles on my car before it went kaput! And, BMW will not fix it for free and the cost of repairs is $4,500.00. And the engineers of BMW also removed the sensor to tell you when a tail light is out. Well mine went our and the 3.00 bulb has been replaced by a LED light that takes the service dept 8 hrs to fix. And after 3 weeks, its out again! Whats going on?

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  Really the ultimate driving machine - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By Faraz - November 30 - 5:51 am

  I bought this car used. As soon as I test drove a BMW 7 series, I realized no other car could match the sensation. The criticism about the iDrive is not true. It is very intuitive and learning reflects the learners intelligence. Programmable Cruise control, massaging seats, luxurious spacious interior and very comfortable rear programmable seats are unparalleled for an under 100K car. Once you have learned the features and are familiar with the response of the car it is exhilarating to drive this machine. It is a head turner on the road this car will make you drive the scenic road - it handles the road so well and it is so much fun to drive this car.

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  Exhilarating 740i M sport package - 2001 BMW 7-Series
  By AdrianA - November 29 - 11:35 pm

  Took delivery of a low mileage, (52,300) sport sedan, thanks to all the advise, blogs, concerns and messages from well-wishers who opined if I chose to indulge in the 7 Series cadre, I should pay considerable attention to the 2001, and more particularly the M Sport package. Being used to the size of the two 3er I own (90 & 94), the size is imposing and the MPG disastrous, to say the least. But once I sat in the "cockpit", which was a significant upgrade from the 3er, powered it on, quiet, and provided the ambiance to carry on a conversation at normal levels. I was impressed. The compromise for what it delivers in driving pleasure feels compensates for the not so good gas mileage. A delight

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  Easy to drive for such a large car. - 2001 BMW 7-Series
  By oscar - November 11 - 5:28 am

  Smooth and powerful engine, Huge interior, elegant exterior and very easy to drive fast, best car I ever owned.

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  Best car to drive - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By joker2008 - November 3 - 8:14 pm

  This is my first BMW car after Lexus. I feel that I have fallen love with this car since I own it :-) It accelerates so fast to leave other car far behind after I leave traffic light. Bluetooth displays name and address book. Extra space for back seats really makes my family happy. It is not only very fast but also very smooth on high way. The body shape also looks more attractive comparing other luxury cars. It is more fun to drive comparing Japanese. The front and back sensors are quite useful to avoid collide to other vehicles in parking lot. But it does have some electric problems: cigarette charger stopped working, 6-CDs player stopped working but fixed by dealer with warranty

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  2008 750Li Amazing! - 2008 BMW 7-Series
  By Shain - October 31 - 11:13 pm

  This is an amazing car. Considered the Lexus and Infiniti top models, but they did not stack up against the 750. Stereo is phenomenal drive and comfort - WOW!! IDrive is completely intuitive, controls are easy, and interior finish is immaculate. The best I have ever driven!