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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  Support your local 740 - 1993 BMW 7-Series
  By David Rosa - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I really like this automobile. The engine is about right for the size and weight. By the way at 4200lbs it is similiar in weight to my 91 50ft long caddy. I love the ajustable seats that heat up, and the leg rm in back is endless, maybe a 500 series will be plenty next time. Great ride and drive. Love the sun roof on a shaded road. I plan to keep this one for a while. Only real draw back, the dealer and their repair and parts prices. My foreign born mechanic as saved me several occassions. Wheres the cup holder?

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  Would change it for the world - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Chris Wardak - July 16 - 2:00 am

  My first BMW 745. My previous car was a volvo S80 and I cant even compare them. The German engineering is astounding. Road handling and performance is at its best when youre driving this car. Yepp Im a techy geek and love the computerized interior. The car basically purrrsss and I sometime cant even tell if its running. Every part of this car comfortable from the look, feel, and use. Im hoping my car could the new 645ci. If not, Im definitely getting another 745 at a minimum.

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  1995 BMW 740i - 1995 BMW 7-Series
  By N.I.C - July 13 - 2:00 am

  For a used car this is the best buy ever. This luxury car thinks its a sports car & boy does it handle like one,with a 282-hp, 32-valve, 4.0-liter V8 engine. The leg & headroom is great for a sedan, with a nice aerodynamic look, this car reminds me of the MD80 or a small jet.It has the M.I.D. system (Multi Information Display)if you pass gas the onboard Computer will tell you..lol..If you get this car make sure it comes with a manual & its like studying for a S.A.T Note: this isnt even the 740il with more features ...lol...If your a car lover a Bimmer is the way to go from the 3series on to the 7series it is a very sports like ride.

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  Not bad - could be better for the money - 2002 BMW 7-Series
  By yao - July 10 - 2:00 am

  Mechanics such as engine/trans response is great. The breaking is also great. The radio had be replace three times. he sound quality is not what I expected. The Lexus 450 which Ive heard and my S500 have a far superior system for the money. Frankly, the I drive is not good. Ease and function is poor. The tilt/telscoping wheel could come out further and down. Mercedes has a much more comfortable seat but the beamer is a rockect. Some of the interior features are "cheap" for the money. Much better in the cadillac, lexus and acura. BMW should take some hints from them. Overall interior look is very nice compared to other models in the same catagory.

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  The Ultimate Driving Machine...IReally! - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Lawyerman - July 10 - 2:00 am

  I extensively tested and researched the Mercedes S500, Audi A8, the Lexus LS430 and the BMW 745LI. This car clearly surpasses them all. Forget about what they say that the command control is confusing. Im no technophile, but I mastered it in less than 10 minutes. This car comes with dozensmore features than the Mercedes and is less money. The Lexus is nice, but it is not a beast on wheels like the BMW. I use to teach Police Officers High Speed Pursuit driving so I know performance when I drive it. This car is simply the best. It combines the best of everything, luxury and high performance into one cool package.

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  Pauls Appraisal - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Paul Reed - July 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned 1998 and a 1999 740il, an x5 SUV, and this 745IL exceeds all in comfort, performance and luxury. It is a fine driving machine. The i-drive is a little difficult to get used to but it provides all data and settings required. If this were a hotel itd be rated 5 star..

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  2000 740i Sport - 2000 BMW 7-Series
  By Blue Chip - July 9 - 2:00 am

  The car is new to me - but has exceeded my expectations in every way, peroformance, ride, and handling are outstanding. The Sport Pkg stiffens the ride and the seats are fairly restraining - much more so than the non sport pkg - but thats why I bought it. Classic lines and enough room for 5 people. Nice exaust note as well. I shopped the Audi A8, Mercedes E500, Lexus, and Infinity - each time, I came up with more value and more car for the money with the BMW. Would only buy this car though with the Sport Package (Steptronic). Much more fun to drive!

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  I like it - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Repoman777 - July 5 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th BMW and by far the best. I also own MB E class but I like the 745i better. The computer display could be improved to a more logical layout. It has too many things all over the place and could be organized in a more meaningful way. The parking distance and navigation system did not appeal to me that much. The performance and the head turning factor is tremendous.

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  Best car Ive ever owned. - 1994 BMW 7-Series
  By Larry Martensson - July 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned many, many vehicles for the past 45 years new and used foreign and domestic. (BMWs, Saabs, Volvos, Hondas, Toyotas, a VW Beetle, Fords, a Buick, a Chevy, an Olds.. and maybe some Ive forgotten!). The 94 740i I now own is by far the best vehicle Ive ever owned. It looks good, drives beautifully, has plenty of power (I outrun many a car!), and has had no problems. The Nikasil block was a problem but most have been replaced. Mine has the Nikasil and has no problems (and since sulphur in gas was the culprit.. if your Nikasil is OK now... dont worry since sulphur is now greatly reduced in our gas).

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  Surprisingly Bug Free - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Joe Jensen - July 1 - 2:00 am

  I was hesitant to trade my 2001 740iL for the newer model (E65) after reading about all the issues with the 2002 and 2003 model years. The leasing incentives were just to good to pass up so I made the move. In a word, Im thrilled. This car is more nimble, quicker, handles better, brakes better, and rides better than my 2001. Im still not crazy about the styling, but Im willing to live with it to get all the other improvements. My 2001 was in the shop 5 or 7 times in the first 6 months for minor issues. Ive had this car for 2 months with zero issues and Im really picky. I think they have the issues resolved for the 2004s...joe