Market Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Executives, discerning drivers seeking comfort, performance, and advanced engineering for their era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ
Styling:
Iconic 'Bangle' design language, aerodynamically optimized, spacious and opulent interior
Powertrain Options:
Smooth inline-six (M30), potent V8 (M60), and the flagship V12 (M70)
Technology Introduction:
Early adoption of electronic systems, ABS, traction control (ASC), sophisticated climate control
Handling Dynamics:
BMW's signature blend of sporting capability and luxurious ride comfort
Covered Models:
735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL
Covered Engines:
M30 (3.5L), M60 (4.0L), M70 (5.0L)
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact count varies by specific edition, typically 800-1200 pages for a full service manual)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Standard for BMW factory manuals of this era, though other languages may exist)
Format:
Typically Printed Hardcover or Digital (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel delivery, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Automatic (ZF 4 HP 22 EH, ZF 4 HP 24 EH, ZF A5S 560Z) and Manual (Getrag 260/6) service, repair, and diagnostics
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front and rear suspension, steering components (hydraulic power steering), braking system (ABS, hydraulic circuits), wheel alignment
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, structural repair (limited), door mechanisms, glass replacement
Body Equipment:
Interior trim, seats, climate control system (HVAC), sunroof, power windows, locks, mirrors, central locking
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays
Equipment Accessories:
Audio system, cruise control, onboard computer (if applicable), alarm system, optional accessories
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD I for M60, limited for M30/M70), testing procedures for sensors and actuators
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation (e.g., engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement)
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing common and complex issues, symptom-based diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
Identification of specific tools or diagnostic equipment required for certain procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Tracing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing voltage, resistance, and continuity
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including component testing, sensor outputs, and system checks
Wiring Diagrams Detail:
Detailed schematics for all electrical systems, color-coded for clarity
Engine 735I 735Il:
3.5L M30B35 Inline-6
Engine 740I 740Il:
4.0L M60B40 V8
Engine 750Il:
5.0L M70B50 V12
Horsepower 735I 735Il:
Approx. 208-211 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 735I 735Il:
Approx. 225-232 lb-ft
Horsepower 740I 740Il:
Approx. 282-296 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 740I 740Il:
Approx. 295-310 lb-ft
Horsepower 750Il:
Approx. 296-300 hp
Torque 750Il:
Approx. 332-339 lb-ft
Fuel System Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Requirement:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron (M30), Aluminum Alloy (M60, M70)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (M30), DOHC with 4 valves per cylinder (M60, M70)
Standard Transmission:
Automatic transmission was standard on most E32 models, particularly the V8 and V12.
Optional Transmission Manual:
Getrag 260/6 5-speed manual was available on some 735i models (less common).
Automatic Transmission Models:
ZF 4 HP 22 EH (3.5L, early 4.0L), ZF 4 HP 24 EH (late 4.0L), ZF A5S 560Z (5.0L V12)
Electronic Control Auto:
EH designation indicates electronic control for shift points and hydraulic pressure, enhancing shift quality and efficiency.
Atf Specification Zf:
BMW ATF LT3 / ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (Dexron III compatible in many cases, consult manual for exact spec)
Mtf Specification:
BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (specific manual transmission fluid)
Wheelbase Standard:
Approx. 116.7 inches (2965 mm)
Wheelbase Long Wheelbase Il:
Approx. 120.9 inches (3070 mm)
Length 735I 740I:
Approx. 198.4 inches (5038 mm)
Length 735Il 740Il 750Il:
Approx. 202.6 inches (5146 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
4000-4500 lbs (1815-2040 kg), varying by model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult individual vehicle specifications
NHTSA Rating:
NCAP/NHTSA ratings for this era are less standardized; focused on structural integrity and passive safety features of the time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or ASC+T on later models.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard from mid-production; passenger airbag optional or standard on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side impact protection bars
Oil Change Interval Synth:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) with synthetic oil, or as indicated by the car's service indicator (check control).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs, coolant flush, transmission service typically recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent full synthetic 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate and engine.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Cooling System Problems:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump seals can fail.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related issues with wiring harnesses, vacuum leaks, central locking pump failure, EML light (engine management).
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and control arms can wear out, leading to clunks and poor handling.
M60 Timing Chain Tensioners:
Known issue with plastic timing chain tensioners on the M60 V8 cracking or failing, leading to catastrophic engine damage if not replaced preventatively.
Head Gasket M30:
M30 engines can be prone to head gasket failure due to age and heat cycles.
Oil Filter 735I M30:
e.g., Mann Filter W 920/1, Mahle OX 38
Spark Plug 740I M60:
e.g., Bosch FGR7DQP+ (Platinum)
Bmw Heritage Luxury:
BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury vehicles.
E32 Predecessor:
Replaced the E23 7 Series.
E32 Successor:
Succeeded by the E38 7 Series.
E32 Design Influence:
Introduced significant styling changes and advanced technology, setting a benchmark for luxury sedans.
Production Period:
1986-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing Assembly Plant, Germany
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E32 7 Series, particularly the 750iL, was frequently lauded by automotive press for its engineering and performance, often appearing on '10 Best' lists for luxury cars of its time.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Praised for its quiet ride, powerful engines, and sophisticated driving dynamics.
