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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  my 740i - 1998 BMW 7-Series
  By rickter - June 29 - 2:00 am

  It is an awesome vehicle, but it costs to keep them going. I had the same problem with the "check taillight" alert. It is due to water getting in the rear light assembly. Costs about $300 to get both fixed. This car really scoots and is very fast and fun to drive. Its worth the $

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  NICE!!! - 1997 BMW 7-Series
  By wvangosen - June 28 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! When I purchased it though, it had some problems and slightly abused. Digital displays not functioning properly, radio buttons broken, no floor mats, paint splatter on the side, etc... However, the ride and performance of this car have more than made up for these minor glites (not to mention the great price I got on it). Center console should have a hidden compartment for the phone and be covered with the same soft leather that the seats are covered in.

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  Ultimate Paradox - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By Steveh - June 22 - 2:00 am

  The car is a dream to drive . The workmanship on the car is definitely substandard and the electronics are woeful. Every repair has either been completely ineffective in remedying my problem or has created some new problem the dealer cant figure out. Strongly recommend anyone thinking about purchasing this car get detailed information about the dealership(s) srevice department, since youll be spending quite a bit of time there. I live in an area with only one BMW dealer in a 100 mild radius and the service department has been incompetent and as user unfriendly as the car.

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  Bravo BMW!!! - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By Russell Housen - June 19 - 2:00 am

  After owning many BMWs this is by far the most elegant and fun to drive. When compared to the Mercedes S500 and Im sorry but therewas NO comparison! The Mercedes was uninspiring and boring. True the gadgets in the Bimmer take some getting used to, it did not take much time and the rewards are plentiful. My friends are in awe of this automobile, it is time to take the automobile into the next century and I applaude BMW for being at the forefront. Those who critize havent spent the time to master the technology. After watching the video and working with the electronics driving this car is once again a very enjoyable experience. The car is also beautiful!

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  Big car that drives like a sports car... - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By lc18_58 - June 18 - 2:00 am

  The engine is simply amazing. Power on the freeway is effortless. Sometimes I cant even tell that Im going 85-90! Because its very easy to go fast. I have a 45 minute comute to work and I use to hate it, BEFORE I bought this car. It has brought the FUN back into driving for me. The logic 7 sound system is a must, you wont regret it. The ventilated seats is an great feature, since its now impossible to sweat on the leather anymore. And the exterior styling is very noticable. Believe me, this car turns a lot of heads. Yes, BMW was right... it is truly the ULTIMATE driving machine!

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  A good car. - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By googie - June 14 - 2:00 am

  This is a very nice car. It has an incredible drive! Has a few little bugs, it seems BMW has not quite gotten everything sorted out but overall is a real gem. Beats the S500 and Lexus 400 completely.

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  Hate to love it - 1997 BMW 7-Series
  By Steve B - June 6 - 2:00 am

  I love the car and the compliments. Legroom for everyone. But too much maintenance on things that shouldnt go wrong. When I ask, I hear "yeah, the 7s do that." $3500 in the last year or so...this is ridiculous.

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  Livin For The Shop... - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By CAJ - June 2 - 2:00 am

  With over 50+ days (in less than 1 year) spent in the shop...Im settled to driving my 80k dollar 3 series loaner. This car cannot be fixed and would look better painted yellow. Having owned 2 prior 7s, I expected a great reliable car. This car is a warranty shops dream. No mortal man can afford one when it goes out of warranty. Best advice...DONT EVEN TAKE A TEST DRIVE!

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  03 745i - 2002 BMW 7-Series
  By waldroje - May 31 - 2:00 am

  i only have 1300 miles behind me but can confirm that getting this car was the right decision. the ride and performance are outstanding, while setting up preferences w/ idrive was a breeze. went w/ 19 wheels which add a lot to the appearance. no complaints.

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  Fine Car - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By Ggood68 - May 30 - 2:00 am

  This is a fine car. I have owned a few different 5 series and have enjoyed them all. This car is special, not a beauty when you first see it, but it does grow on you once you drive it. The i drive have been very reliable and intuitive for me. The quality of the acceleration and ride are amazing for a car of this size.