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The '''BMW E38''' model was the basis for the 1995 through 2001 [[BMW 7 Series]] automobiles. Developed from early 1988(final design approved in 1992) to 1994, it was unveiled in the summer of 1994, replacing the [[BMW E32]] that September and itself was replaced by the [[BMW E65/E66]] for the 2002 [[model year]].
The '''BMW E38''' model was the basis for the 1995 through 2001 [[BMW 7 Series]] automobiles. Developed from early 1988(final design approved early 1993) to 1994, it was unveiled in the summer of 1994, replacing the [[BMW E32]] that September and itself was replaced by the [[BMW E65/E66]] for the 2002 [[model year]].


The E38 models were offered with either a five-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]] or [[manual transmission]]; 730d, 740d, 740i/iL, and 750i/iL had a 5-speed [[ZF Friedrichshafen AG|ZF]] automatic standard. The [[engine]] variants in Europe were 725tds, 728i, 730i, 730d, 735i, 740i (4.0 and 4.4 L), 740d and 750i. In the [[Americas]], the models were sold as the 740i, 740iL and 750iL. The 740i/iL were powered by a 4.4 L [[V8]] engine. The base prices in 2001 were US$62,900 for the 740i, US$66,900 for the 740iL and US$92,100 for the 750iL. The considerably rarer 5.4 L [[V12 engine|V12]] was BMW's [[flagship car|flagship vehicle]], with a 5.4 L 322 bhp (240 kW) engine, also shared by the [[Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph]]. V8 and V12 cars had [[wheelbase|long-wheelbase]] variants, with the "L" added to the designation. A rare European executive long-wheelbase [[limousine]] model was also produced, called the BMW L7, available as both 740iL (4.4 L V8) and 750iL (5.4 L V12) variants. Protection Line light-armored vehicles were built from 2000–2001, again utilizing the 740iL and 750iL platforms, and cost US$99,100 and US$124,400, respectively. These models included body armor, bullet-resistant glass and [[run-flat tire]]s.
The E38 models were offered with either a five-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]] or [[manual transmission]]; 730d, 740d, 740i/iL, and 750i/iL had a 5-speed [[ZF Friedrichshafen AG|ZF]] automatic standard. The [[engine]] variants in Europe were 725tds, 728i, 730i, 730d, 735i, 740i (4.0 and 4.4 L), 740d and 750i. In the [[Americas]], the models were sold as the 740i, 740iL and 750iL. The 740i/iL were powered by a 4.4 L [[V8]] engine. The base prices in 2001 were US$62,900 for the 740i, US$66,900 for the 740iL and US$92,100 for the 750iL. The considerably rarer 5.4 L [[V12 engine|V12]] was BMW's [[flagship car|flagship vehicle]], with a 5.4 L 322 bhp (240 kW) engine, also shared by the [[Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph]]. V8 and V12 cars had [[wheelbase|long-wheelbase]] variants, with the "L" added to the designation. A rare European executive long-wheelbase [[limousine]] model was also produced, called the BMW L7, available as both 740iL (4.4 L V8) and 750iL (5.4 L V12) variants. Protection Line light-armored vehicles were built from 2000–2001, again utilizing the 740iL and 750iL platforms, and cost US$99,100 and US$124,400, respectively. These models included body armor, bullet-resistant glass and [[run-flat tire]]s.


Features of the E38 7 Series included high-pressure headlight washers, auto-leveling [[xenon HID headlamp]]s, power moonroof, a sound system with 14 speakers and four subwoofers as well as 6-disc CD changer, onboard [[satellite navigation]] (1994-1996 MKI based on the VDO-Dayton Carin system, 1997-2000 MKII based on the Phillips system with separate Trimble Navigation receiver, 2001 MKIII based on the Phillips system with internal Trimble Navigation receiver. The E38 7 Series never had the factory DVD-ROM based Navigation system <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bimmernav.com/url/mkiv/ |title=MKIV |publisher=Bimmernav.com |date= |accessdate=2010-11-06}}</ref> although upgrading to this system is a simple process) and rain-sensing wipers. Other features included an automatic [[climate control]] system with separate controls for the driver and passenger, a three-position memory system for the driver’s seat, safety-belt height, new steering wheel and outside mirrors. Front-seat side airbags and a Head Protection System (HPS) were also standard. The 750iL featured an all-leather interior with burl walnut trim, while the sport model featured Sports seats and "Vavona" wood trim . The continuous-motion Active Comfort Seat technology was introduced in 1998 to improve comfort and reduce fatigue for the driver and front passenger.
Features of the E38 7 Series included high-pressure headlight washers, auto-leveling [[xenon HID headlamp]]s, power moonroof, a sound system with 14 speakers and four subw

When the E38 was phased out in 2001 to make way for the new [[BMW E65|E65]], sales of E38s increased noticeably in the car's final months of production as people moved to buy the car before it was replaced. The E65's [[Chris Bangle|radical styling]] and [[iDrive]] was not initially well-received by consumers, so used E38s increased in value as demand increased. Also contributing to the E38's continued popularity was its appearance in several films such as ''[[Tomorrow Never Dies]]'', ''[[The Transporter]]'', [[Bimmer (film)|Bimmer]] and ''[[The Game (film)|The Game]]''. The E38 740i featured in the [[BMW Films#Ambush|BMW Film ''Ambush'']], even though it was the only featured car in the series to be replaced the following year.

==E38 models==
[[Image:BMW M62 V8 engine.jpg|thumb|250px|right|4.4L M62B44 V8 (US)]]

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Model!!Engine!!Power/Torque!!Years produced!!Produced
|-
|725tds||2.5L [[BMW M51|M51D25]] [[Diesel engine|Diesel]] I6|| {{convert|105|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|280|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1995–2001||9053
|-
|728i||2.8L [[BMW M52|M52B28]] [[Petrol]] I6|| {{convert|142|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|280|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1996–2001||38947
|-
|728iL||2.8L [[BMW M52|M52B28]] [[Petrol]] I6|| {{convert|142|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|280|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1996–2001||6816
|-
|730i||3.0L [[BMW M60|M60B30]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|160|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|290|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1994–1996||20876
|-
|730iL||3.0L [[BMW M60|M60B30]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|160|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|290|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1994–1996||2137
|-
|735i||3.5L [[BMW M62|M62B35]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|173|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|320|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1994–1997||21481
|-
|735i||3.5L [[BMW M62|M62TUB35]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|174|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|345|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1998–2001
|-
|735iL||3.5L [[BMW M62|M62B35]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|173|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|320|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1994–1997||6963
|-
|735iL||3.5L [[BMW M62|M62TUB35]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|174|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|345|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1998–2001
|-
|740i||4.0L [[BMW M60|M60B40]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|210|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1994–1996||
|-
|740iL||4.0L [[BMW M60|M60B40]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|210|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1994–1996||
|-
|740i||4.4L [[BMW M62|M62B44]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|210|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|420|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1996–1998||88853
|-
|740i||4.4L [[BMW M62|M62TUB44]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|210|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|440|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1999–2001
|-
|740iL||4.4L [[BMW M62|M62B44]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|210|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|420|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1996–1998||91431
|-
|740iL||4.4L [[BMW M62|M62TUB44]] [[Petrol]] V8|| {{convert|210|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|440|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1999–2001
|-
|750iL||5.4L [[BMW M73|M73B54]] [[Petrol]] V12|| {{convert|240|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|490|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1995–1997||15759
|-
|750iL||5.4L [[BMW M73|M73TUB54]] [[Petrol]] V12|| {{convert|240|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|490|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ||1998–2001||1032
|-
|730d||2.9L [[BMW M57|M57D30]] [[Diesel engine|Diesel]] I6|| {{convert|142|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|410|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1998–2001||12336
|-
|740d||3.9L [[BMW M67|M67D40]] [[Diesel engine|Diesel]] V8|| {{convert|180|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} / {{convert|560|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}||1998–2001||3450
|}

==Model history==
===1995===
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:1995740iinoregon.jpg|thumb|250px|right|1995 E38 740i]] -->
*E38 Production begins in 1994 for the 1995 Model Year replacing the E32. Initial production E38s were available with either a 2.5&nbsp;L Turbodiesel [[Straight-six engine|I6]] 3.0L or 4.0&nbsp;L M60 V8 or the 5.4&nbsp;L M73 V12 engine.
*US Model Range includes the 740i, 740iL and 750iL.
1995 E38 used an aluminium block with Nikasil plated cylinder bores - nickel containing silicon carbide particles. Unfortunately, excessive sulphur from fuel reacts adversely with the nickel, causing very slight blemishes in the top few millimeters of the cylinder bore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.koalamotorsport.com/article-m60v8.asp |title=Koala Motorsport - tech-home |publisher=Web.archive.org |date= |accessdate=2010-11-06 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070617084713/http://www.koalamotorsport.com/article-m60v8.asp |archivedate = 2007-06-17}}</ref>

===1996===
[[Image:BMW E38 740iA-96.jpg|thumb|1996 740iA]]

*750i included [[Steptronic]] [[automatic transmission]] with manual shift mode.
*728i and 735i were launched with [[traction control system|traction control]], [[Anti-lock braking system|ABS]], alloy wheels, dual [[airbags]], [[air-conditioning]], leather upholstery, and electric front seats.
*740i and 740iL upgraded from the [[BMW M60|M60]] 4.0&nbsp;L to the [[BMW M62|M62]] 4.4&nbsp;L [[V8]] engine.
*Steptronic and traction control become standard on 730i, 740i, and 740iL. Steptronic is not available in the North American market until 1999 when the 740i ZSP Sport Package was offered.
*An [[Alpina]] sports suspension, onboard TV and [[satellite navigation system]] were offered as options.

===1997===
[[Image:BMW E38 740iA-96 interior.jpg|thumb|1996 740iA interior]]
*730i/730i SE and 735i/735i SE launched. Equipment includes central locking, front fog lamps and electric heated mirrors; 735i has rear head restraints and electric front seats; 730i SE has a sunroof; 735i SE has air-conditioning, cruise control and leather. *Revisions midway through the model year include front head airbags; automatic air-conditioning on 728i/735i; on-board computer on 728i; DSC III ([[Electronic Stability Control|Dynamic Stability Control]]) offered on 740i/740iL and 750i/750iL.
*[[Xenon HID headlamp|xenon headlamps]] were included on 750i/750iL.
* The 750iL (actually a re-badged 740iL) is extensively featured in the high grossing James Bond series film [[Tomorrow Never Dies]].

===1998===
*A new ZSP option (Sport Package) includes an Alpina suspension, multi-spoke alloys, sports seats and shadowline exterior trim.
*Revisions midway through the model year include new front and rear lights, a revised grille, black side sills and valances, and a remote locking with memory system
*DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) now standard on all 7 series models
*Satellite navigation system become standard on 750i and 750iL
*HPS or Head Protection System is introduced and offered as standard on all 7 series models (indicated by HPS badge on interior A-pillar)
*'Facelift' from 9/98 production featuring 'scalloped' headlamps, new front fenders with shorter turn signal lenses and side fascia improvements (including elimination of the visible jackpoints)

===1999===
[[Image:1999 BMW e38.jpg|thumb|The front side of 1999 E38 728i]]
[[File:1998-2000 BMW 735i (E38) sedan 02.jpg|thumb|The rear side of 1998–2000 E38 735i]]

*The 735 and 740 models receive an improved M62TU V8 engine with single [[VANOS]] variable valve timing. The 4.4 engine gets a marked increase in torque from 310 to {{convert|324|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on}} Horsepower remains at {{Convert|282|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}.
*A Sport Package becomes available for the 740i which includes: blacked-out exterior "shadowline" trim, Vavona redwood interior trim, 18-way adjustable sport seats, staggered {{convert|18|in|mm|adj=on}} alloy wheels, a stiffer M inspired suspension with thicker front and rear anti-sway bars, [[Steptronic]] Transmission with higher stall-speed torque converter, and a higher 3.15 final drive ratio (versus 2.92).
* The 750 receives an improved M73N 5.4 liter V12 engine making a slight increase in power and torque.
* The 750 now includes Electric Catalytic Converter, or "E-CAT", assemblies. Coils inside the catalytic converter assemblies are electrically heated just after engine start, bringing the catalyst up to operating temperature much faster than traditional catalytic converters can, providing cleaner cold starts and LEV compliance. This system required the use of a two-battery system.

===2000===
*A number of previously optional features become standard, including Xenon headlamps, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, headlight washers, GPS navigation, and upgraded audio including [[Digital signal processing|DSP]] and 6-disc CD changer
*The sport package is extended to include the 740iL but without the same performance enhancing features as the 740i receives. The 740iL Sport maintains the same visual cues as the 740i Sport such as vavona redwood trim, shadowline exterior trim and 18" staggered alloy wheels. The iL comes standard with EDC for improved handling.
*In Europe, [[Adaptive Cruise Control]] became available as an option.

===2001===
[[Image:98-01 BMW 7-Series.jpg|thumb|right|2001 E38 740iL (Facelifted) (US)]]
*Final year of E38 sales with production ending in July 2001.
The last E38 (a silver 740i with black leather interior) rolled off BMW's assembly line on July 27, 2001 to make way for the new E65. The E65 was received so poorly by consumers that sales of
E38s increased noticeably in the car's final months of production as people moved to buy the car
before it went out of production and used E38s increased in value.
*Body-colored side skirts and bumper facias, which were previously flat black
*Clear front and rear turn signal lights replace amber-colored lights.
*More previously optional features become standard, including a [[Motorola StarTAC]] or [[Motorola TimePort]] (depending on date of production) with [[BMW Assist]] telemetry system.
*Widescreen Navigation and a faster CD based navigation computer were phased in from 9/00 production on all models.
*(US Models) Power folding exterior mirrors are now standard on the 750iL, and included in the optional convenience package on all other models.

==Tuning==
[[Image:BMW 750il.jpg|thumb|right|Dinan-Modified BMW 750iL]]
The E38 has been successfully modified with a large number of after market performance tools, including free-flow exhaust and intake systems, suspension adjustment, and braking system performance upgrades.

==Stretch Limo L7==
BMW produced the Stretch Limo L7 after 1997. 899 examples were built, and the 750iL was stretched about {{Convert|10|in|mm|0}}. Target markets were the USA, Asia and Arabia.

===Flexible Electronics System===
Since the start of production the entire in-car entertainment system (Radio Function, Navigation System, Television and Telecommunications systems) is based on a very flexible automotive computer system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.e38.org/bussystem.pdf |title=BMW Bus System |format=PDF |date= |accessdate=2010-11-06}}</ref> As a result the E38 models наcan all be easily upgraded with the newest BMW technologies including BMW's Bluetooth System, the DVD based Navigation system, as well as BMW's CD changers that play MP3s<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bimmernav.com/ |title=Bimmernav |publisher=Bimmernav |date= |accessdate=2010-11-06}}</ref>

[[Engine tuning]] companies such as [[Alpina]], [[Dinan Cars|Dinan]] and [[Hartge]] have built both [[turbocharged]] and [[supercharged]] versions of the M73 V12 motor.

==Film==
Contributing to the E38's continued popularity was its appearance in several films such as ''[[Tomorrow Never Dies]]'' (750iL), ''[[Bumer]]'' "Бумер" (750iL), ''[[Enemy of the State]]'' (740iL), ''[[Invictus]]'' (740iL), ''[[Bad Santa]]'' (740iL), ''[[Fun with Dick and Jane]]'' (740iL), ''[[Showtime (film)|Showtime]]'' (740i), ''[[The Transporter]]'' (735i) which was a one off manual 750i badged as a 735i, "[[Live Free or Die Hard]]" which was a 2000 740i, and ''[[The Game (film)|The Game]]'' (740iL). Even though it was the only featured car in the series to be replaced the following year, the E38 featured in the [[BMW Films#Ambush|BMW Film ''Ambush'']] which was released in fall 2001.

In the [[James Bond (film series)|007 James Bond film]] ''[[Tomorrow Never Dies]]'', the sixteen E38 cars used during production were modified so they could be driven from the backseat. The car type is actually a BMW 740iL but they were [[Rice burner#Improper Badging|re-badged]] as the 750iL. One survives today and can be seen at exhibition “TOP SECRET” at Museum Industriekultur, Nuremberg. Besides the 7 Series saloons, BMW also supplied a $14,000 [[BMW R1200C|R1200C motorcycle]]. BMW received the rights to use movie clips from the film in its multimillion-dollar campaign, and during the 1997 holiday season they offered a special promotion that included the R1200C with the purchase of the 750iL.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,290464_2,00.html |title=BOND OF GOLD &#124; Tomorrow Never Dies &#124; Movie News &#124; Movies &#124; Entertainment Weekly &#124; 2 |publisher=Ew.com |date=1997-11-28 |accessdate=2009-07-25}}</ref>

[[Image:007-BMW.jpg|230px|thumb|right|[[BMW 7 Series]] car from ''Tomorrow Never Dies'', seen at an exhibition at Museum Industriekultur, Nuremberg.]]

==E38 total production==

There were a total of 340,242 E38s. All E38s were rear wheel drive.
By Market:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
!Market
!Total Production
|-
|EUR
|202537
|-
|IDN
|503
|-
|MEX
|24
|-
|THA
|791
|-
|USA
|123705
|-
|}

By model:
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
!Model
!Total Production
|-
|725tds
|9053
|-
|728i
|38947
|-
|728iL
|6816
|-
|730d
|12336
|-
|730i
|20876
|-
|730iL
|2137
|-
|735i
|21481
|-
|735iL
|6963
|-
|740d
|3450
|-
|740i
|88853
|-
|740iL
|91431
|-
|750i
|8559
|-
|750iL
|15759
|-
|L7
|899
|}

By motor:
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
!Motor_Type
!Total_Production
|-
|M51
|9053
|-
|M52
|28086
|-
|M52TU
|17677
|-
|M57
|12336
|-
|M60/1
|23013
|-
|M60/2
|45724
|-
|M62
|163004
|-
|M67
|3450
|-
|M73
|25217
|}

==References==
{{reflist}}
8. http://imcdb.org/vehicle_114345-BMW-740i-E38-2000.html

==External links==
{{Commons category|BMW E38}}
*{{dmoz|/Recreation/Autos/Makes_and_Models/BMW/7_Series/|BMW 7 Series}}
* [http://www.7-forum.com/lemke/l7_ansicht_links-d.jpg BMW-produced Stretch Limo L7]
* [http://bimmerin.net/b7e38.php E38 photogallery and specs]

{{BMW cars}}

[[Category:BMW model codes|E38]]
[[Category:Vehicles introduced in 1994]]
[[Category:Tomorrow Never Dies]]

[[bg:BMW Е38]]
[[da:BMW E38]]
[[de:BMW E38]]
[[et:BMW E38]]
[[el:BMW E38]]
[[es:BMW E38]]
[[fa:ب‌ام‌و سری ۷ (ای۳۸)]]
[[it:BMW E38]]
[[nl:BMW E38]]
[[no:BMW E38]]
[[pl:BMW E38]]
[[pt:BMW E38]]
[[ru:BMW E38]]
[[sk:BMW rad 7 (E38)]]
[[sv:BMW 7-serie#E38]]
[[uk:BMW E38]]

Revision as of 18:27, 10 February 2012

BMW 7-Series (E38)
Overview
ManufacturerBMW
Production1994–2001
340,242 built [1][2]
AssemblyDingolfing, Germany
Toluca, Mexico[3]
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
LayoutFR layout
Powertrain
Engine2.8 L I6
3.0–4.4 L V8
5.4 L V12
2.5–2.9 L I6 Turbodiesel
2.9 L [I6] Turbodiesel
Transmission5-speed manual
6-speed manual
5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,930 mm (115 in)−3,070 mm (121 in)
Length4,984 mm (196.2 in)−5,124 mm (201.7 in)
Width1,862 mm (73.3 in)
Height1,425 mm (56.1 in)−1,435 mm (56.5 in)
Curb weight1,710 kg (3,770 lb)−2,185 kg (4,817 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorBMW E32
SuccessorBMW E65/E66/E67/E68

The BMW E38 model was the basis for the 1995 through 2001 BMW 7 Series automobiles. Developed from early 1988(final design approved early 1993) to 1994, it was unveiled in the summer of 1994, replacing the BMW E32 that September and itself was replaced by the BMW E65/E66 for the 2002 model year.

The E38 models were offered with either a five-speed automatic or manual transmission; 730d, 740d, 740i/iL, and 750i/iL had a 5-speed ZF automatic standard. The engine variants in Europe were 725tds, 728i, 730i, 730d, 735i, 740i (4.0 and 4.4 L), 740d and 750i. In the Americas, the models were sold as the 740i, 740iL and 750iL. The 740i/iL were powered by a 4.4 L V8 engine. The base prices in 2001 were US$62,900 for the 740i, US$66,900 for the 740iL and US$92,100 for the 750iL. The considerably rarer 5.4 L V12 was BMW's flagship vehicle, with a 5.4 L 322 bhp (240 kW) engine, also shared by the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph. V8 and V12 cars had long-wheelbase variants, with the "L" added to the designation. A rare European executive long-wheelbase limousine model was also produced, called the BMW L7, available as both 740iL (4.4 L V8) and 750iL (5.4 L V12) variants. Protection Line light-armored vehicles were built from 2000–2001, again utilizing the 740iL and 750iL platforms, and cost US$99,100 and US$124,400, respectively. These models included body armor, bullet-resistant glass and run-flat tires.

Features of the E38 7 Series included high-pressure headlight washers, auto-leveling xenon HID headlamps, power moonroof, a sound system with 14 speakers and four subwoofers as well as 6-disc CD changer, onboard satellite navigation (1994-1996 MKI based on the VDO-Dayton Carin system, 1997-2000 MKII based on the Phillips system with separate Trimble Navigation receiver, 2001 MKIII based on the Phillips system with internal Trimble Navigation receiver. The E38 7 Series never had the factory DVD-ROM based Navigation system [4] although upgrading to this system is a simple process) and rain-sensing wipers. Other features included an automatic climate control system with separate controls for the driver and passenger, a three-position memory system for the driver’s seat, safety-belt height, new steering wheel and outside mirrors. Front-seat side airbags and a Head Protection System (HPS) were also standard. The 750iL featured an all-leather interior with burl walnut trim, while the sport model featured Sports seats and "Vavona" wood trim . The continuous-motion Active Comfort Seat technology was introduced in 1998 to improve comfort and reduce fatigue for the driver and front passenger.

When the E38 was phased out in 2001 to make way for the new E65, sales of E38s increased noticeably in the car's final months of production as people moved to buy the car before it was replaced. The E65's radical styling and iDrive was not initially well-received by consumers, so used E38s increased in value as demand increased. Also contributing to the E38's continued popularity was its appearance in several films such as Tomorrow Never Dies, The Transporter, Bimmer and The Game. The E38 740i featured in the BMW Film Ambush, even though it was the only featured car in the series to be replaced the following year.

E38 models

4.4L M62B44 V8 (US)
Model Engine Power/Torque Years produced Produced
725tds 2.5L M51D25 Diesel I6 105 kW (143 PS; 141 hp) / 280 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) 1995–2001 9053
728i 2.8L M52B28 Petrol I6 142 kW (193 PS; 190 hp) / 280 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) 1996–2001 38947
728iL 2.8L M52B28 Petrol I6 142 kW (193 PS; 190 hp) / 280 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) 1996–2001 6816
730i 3.0L M60B30 Petrol V8 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp) / 290 N⋅m (214 lb⋅ft) 1994–1996 20876
730iL 3.0L M60B30 Petrol V8 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp) / 290 N⋅m (214 lb⋅ft) 1994–1996 2137
735i 3.5L M62B35 Petrol V8 173 kW (235 PS; 232 hp) / 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) 1994–1997 21481
735i 3.5L M62TUB35 Petrol V8 174 kW (237 PS; 233 hp) / 345 N⋅m (254 lb⋅ft) 1998–2001
735iL 3.5L M62B35 Petrol V8 173 kW (235 PS; 232 hp) / 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) 1994–1997 6963
735iL 3.5L M62TUB35 Petrol V8 174 kW (237 PS; 233 hp) / 345 N⋅m (254 lb⋅ft) 1998–2001
740i 4.0L M60B40 Petrol V8 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp) / 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) 1994–1996
740iL 4.0L M60B40 Petrol V8 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp) / 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) 1994–1996
740i 4.4L M62B44 Petrol V8 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp) / 420 N⋅m (310 lb⋅ft) 1996–1998 88853
740i 4.4L M62TUB44 Petrol V8 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp) / 440 N⋅m (325 lb⋅ft) 1999–2001
740iL 4.4L M62B44 Petrol V8 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp) / 420 N⋅m (310 lb⋅ft) 1996–1998 91431
740iL 4.4L M62TUB44 Petrol V8 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp) / 440 N⋅m (325 lb⋅ft) 1999–2001
750iL 5.4L M73B54 Petrol V12 240 kW (326 PS; 322 hp) / 490 N⋅m (361 lb⋅ft) 1995–1997 15759
750iL 5.4L M73TUB54 Petrol V12 240 kW (326 PS; 322 hp) / 490 N⋅m (361 lb⋅ft) 1998–2001 1032
730d 2.9L M57D30 Diesel I6 142 kW (193 PS; 190 hp) / 410 N⋅m (302 lb⋅ft) 1998–2001 12336
740d 3.9L M67D40 Diesel V8 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) / 560 N⋅m (413 lb⋅ft) 1998–2001 3450

Model history

1995

  • E38 Production begins in 1994 for the 1995 Model Year replacing the E32. Initial production E38s were available with either a 2.5 L Turbodiesel I6 3.0L or 4.0 L M60 V8 or the 5.4 L M73 V12 engine.
  • US Model Range includes the 740i, 740iL and 750iL.

1995 E38 used an aluminium block with Nikasil plated cylinder bores - nickel containing silicon carbide particles. Unfortunately, excessive sulphur from fuel reacts adversely with the nickel, causing very slight blemishes in the top few millimeters of the cylinder bore.[5]

1996

1996 740iA
  • 750i included Steptronic automatic transmission with manual shift mode.
  • 728i and 735i were launched with traction control, ABS, alloy wheels, dual airbags, air-conditioning, leather upholstery, and electric front seats.
  • 740i and 740iL upgraded from the M60 4.0 L to the M62 4.4 L V8 engine.
  • Steptronic and traction control become standard on 730i, 740i, and 740iL. Steptronic is not available in the North American market until 1999 when the 740i ZSP Sport Package was offered.
  • An Alpina sports suspension, onboard TV and satellite navigation system were offered as options.

1997

1996 740iA interior
  • 730i/730i SE and 735i/735i SE launched. Equipment includes central locking, front fog lamps and electric heated mirrors; 735i has rear head restraints and electric front seats; 730i SE has a sunroof; 735i SE has air-conditioning, cruise control and leather. *Revisions midway through the model year include front head airbags; automatic air-conditioning on 728i/735i; on-board computer on 728i; DSC III (Dynamic Stability Control) offered on 740i/740iL and 750i/750iL.
  • xenon headlamps were included on 750i/750iL.
  • The 750iL (actually a re-badged 740iL) is extensively featured in the high grossing James Bond series film Tomorrow Never Dies.

1998

  • A new ZSP option (Sport Package) includes an Alpina suspension, multi-spoke alloys, sports seats and shadowline exterior trim.
  • Revisions midway through the model year include new front and rear lights, a revised grille, black side sills and valances, and a remote locking with memory system
  • DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) now standard on all 7 series models
  • Satellite navigation system become standard on 750i and 750iL
  • HPS or Head Protection System is introduced and offered as standard on all 7 series models (indicated by HPS badge on interior A-pillar)
  • 'Facelift' from 9/98 production featuring 'scalloped' headlamps, new front fenders with shorter turn signal lenses and side fascia improvements (including elimination of the visible jackpoints)

1999

The front side of 1999 E38 728i
The rear side of 1998–2000 E38 735i
  • The 735 and 740 models receive an improved M62TU V8 engine with single VANOS variable valve timing. The 4.4 engine gets a marked increase in torque from 310 to 324 lb⋅ft (439 N⋅m) Horsepower remains at 282 hp (210 kW).
  • A Sport Package becomes available for the 740i which includes: blacked-out exterior "shadowline" trim, Vavona redwood interior trim, 18-way adjustable sport seats, staggered 18-inch (460 mm) alloy wheels, a stiffer M inspired suspension with thicker front and rear anti-sway bars, Steptronic Transmission with higher stall-speed torque converter, and a higher 3.15 final drive ratio (versus 2.92).
  • The 750 receives an improved M73N 5.4 liter V12 engine making a slight increase in power and torque.
  • The 750 now includes Electric Catalytic Converter, or "E-CAT", assemblies. Coils inside the catalytic converter assemblies are electrically heated just after engine start, bringing the catalyst up to operating temperature much faster than traditional catalytic converters can, providing cleaner cold starts and LEV compliance. This system required the use of a two-battery system.

2000

  • A number of previously optional features become standard, including Xenon headlamps, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, headlight washers, GPS navigation, and upgraded audio including DSP and 6-disc CD changer
  • The sport package is extended to include the 740iL but without the same performance enhancing features as the 740i receives. The 740iL Sport maintains the same visual cues as the 740i Sport such as vavona redwood trim, shadowline exterior trim and 18" staggered alloy wheels. The iL comes standard with EDC for improved handling.
  • In Europe, Adaptive Cruise Control became available as an option.

2001

2001 E38 740iL (Facelifted) (US)
  • Final year of E38 sales with production ending in July 2001.

The last E38 (a silver 740i with black leather interior) rolled off BMW's assembly line on July 27, 2001 to make way for the new E65. The E65 was received so poorly by consumers that sales of E38s increased noticeably in the car's final months of production as people moved to buy the car before it went out of production and used E38s increased in value.

  • Body-colored side skirts and bumper facias, which were previously flat black
  • Clear front and rear turn signal lights replace amber-colored lights.
  • More previously optional features become standard, including a Motorola StarTAC or Motorola TimePort (depending on date of production) with BMW Assist telemetry system.
  • Widescreen Navigation and a faster CD based navigation computer were phased in from 9/00 production on all models.
  • (US Models) Power folding exterior mirrors are now standard on the 750iL, and included in the optional convenience package on all other models.

Tuning

Dinan-Modified BMW 750iL

The E38 has been successfully modified with a large number of after market performance tools, including free-flow exhaust and intake systems, suspension adjustment, and braking system performance upgrades.

Stretch Limo L7

BMW produced the Stretch Limo L7 after 1997. 899 examples were built, and the 750iL was stretched about 10 inches (254 mm). Target markets were the USA, Asia and Arabia.

Flexible Electronics System

Since the start of production the entire in-car entertainment system (Radio Function, Navigation System, Television and Telecommunications systems) is based on a very flexible automotive computer system.[6] As a result the E38 models наcan all be easily upgraded with the newest BMW technologies including BMW's Bluetooth System, the DVD based Navigation system, as well as BMW's CD changers that play MP3s[7]

Engine tuning companies such as Alpina, Dinan and Hartge have built both turbocharged and supercharged versions of the M73 V12 motor.

Film

Contributing to the E38's continued popularity was its appearance in several films such as Tomorrow Never Dies (750iL), Bumer "Бумер" (750iL), Enemy of the State (740iL), Invictus (740iL), Bad Santa (740iL), Fun with Dick and Jane (740iL), Showtime (740i), The Transporter (735i) which was a one off manual 750i badged as a 735i, "Live Free or Die Hard" which was a 2000 740i, and The Game (740iL). Even though it was the only featured car in the series to be replaced the following year, the E38 featured in the BMW Film Ambush which was released in fall 2001.

In the 007 James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, the sixteen E38 cars used during production were modified so they could be driven from the backseat. The car type is actually a BMW 740iL but they were re-badged as the 750iL. One survives today and can be seen at exhibition “TOP SECRET” at Museum Industriekultur, Nuremberg. Besides the 7 Series saloons, BMW also supplied a $14,000 R1200C motorcycle. BMW received the rights to use movie clips from the film in its multimillion-dollar campaign, and during the 1997 holiday season they offered a special promotion that included the R1200C with the purchase of the 750iL.[8]

BMW 7 Series car from Tomorrow Never Dies, seen at an exhibition at Museum Industriekultur, Nuremberg.

E38 total production

There were a total of 340,242 E38s. All E38s were rear wheel drive. By Market:

Market Total Production
EUR 202537
IDN 503
MEX 24
THA 791
USA 123705

By model:

Model Total Production
725tds 9053
728i 38947
728iL 6816
730d 12336
730i 20876
730iL 2137
735i 21481
735iL 6963
740d 3450
740i 88853
740iL 91431
750i 8559
750iL 15759
L7 899

By motor:

Motor_Type Total_Production
M51 9053
M52 28086
M52TU 17677
M57 12336
M60/1 23013
M60/2 45724
M62 163004
M67 3450
M73 25217

References

  1. ^ Kittler, Eberhard (1. Auflage 2001). Deutsche Autos seit 1990, Band 5. Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3-613-02128-5. {{cite book}}: Check date values in: |year= (help); Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  2. ^ Auto Katalog, 2003 edition, p. 312. Note: Figures include early E65 production.
  3. ^ "Vehicle manufacturer profiles". Automotive World. Retrieved 2011-08-29.
  4. ^ "MKIV". Bimmernav.com. Retrieved 2010-11-06.
  5. ^ "Koala Motorsport - tech-home". Web.archive.org. Archived from the original on 2007-06-17. Retrieved 2010-11-06.
  6. ^ "BMW Bus System" (PDF). Retrieved 2010-11-06.
  7. ^ "Bimmernav". Bimmernav. Retrieved 2010-11-06.
  8. ^ "BOND OF GOLD | Tomorrow Never Dies | Movie News | Movies | Entertainment Weekly | 2". Ew.com. 1997-11-28. Retrieved 2009-07-25.

8. http://imcdb.org/vehicle_114345-BMW-740i-E38-2000.html

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