History of the BMW E38 7 Series.
BMW's
idea of a big,
luxurious, flagship saloon
underwent a sleek redesign for 1994.
A combination long distance cruiser and technical showcase, the
E38 7-Series launched in the UK
with the 218 bhp 730i and the 286 bhp 740i. Both models included a 5 speed
switchable automatic gearbox with adaptive control system (AGS), cruise control,
independent suspension, ABS and Servotronic power steering. 1995 saw the
introduction of the 740i, the 740iL and 750iL long wheelbase models
Beneath the
bonnet of the 740i sat the same 286
horsepower, dual-cam, variable valve timed 4.0
litre V8 engine as before, driving a 5-speed electronic automatic
transmission. Exchanging its previous 4-speed automatic transmission for a 5-speed
unit, the 750iL also lost its 5.0 litre V12 engine in favour of a more potent 5.6 litre
edition. New 14-way power front seats with 4-way lumbar
adjustment were installed. A new 330-watt audio
system was standard in the 750iL.
In 1996 the 740i and 740iL gained a larger 4.4 litre 286 bhp engine, standard ASC+T anti-slip control and a Steptronic gearbox allowing clutchless manual shifting. Side-impact airbags in the front doors became standard. In 1997 a new Head Protection System was installed, claimed to be a "first." A tubular airbag inflates during a side impact, popping out from the A-pillar to protect occupants' heads and shoulders. The power-adjustable steering wheel now automatically lifted up upon opening a door, to ease entry & exit. Zenon headlights became standard on the 750/750iL. In 1998 a new Sport Package became optional for the 740i, including a numerically higher axle ratio, 18-inch M Sport alloy wheels, M-Tech steering wheel, lowered suspension, sports seats and exterior de-chroming. There were some major revisions in 1999 including new headlamps, indicator and rear light lenses, a revised grille, 'Car and Key' personalised locking and memory system and Park Distance Control front and rear. In 2000 all models gained rain sensing wipers, and Sat/Nav as standard equipment. They also gained xenon headlights and premium audio with a 6-disc CD changer. Also new for the 740s was an optional Active Ride Package that included Electronic Damping Control shock absorbers and self-levelling rear suspension. An optional extra was BMW's Active Comfort seat that gently massaged the buttocks whilst driving. For 2001, minor styling changes were made, but all models could be ordered with optional rear torso side airbags that included head-protecting side airbags.