Vehicle Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan.
Target Demographic:
Affluent individuals seeking comfort, performance, and advanced engineering.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400.
Brand Reputation:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance and handling even in its luxury segment.
Engineering Excellence:
Advanced engineering, sophisticated powertrains, and luxurious interiors.
Long Wheelbase Options:
Availability of 'iL' long-wheelbase versions for enhanced rear passenger space.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components.
Maintenance Schedules:
Factory recommended maintenance schedules and procedures.
Electrical Systems:
Complete coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems.
Body And Chassis:
Information on body panel repair, alignment, and chassis components.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided, but implies a very comprehensive manual).
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, engine management systems (DME), sensors, actuators.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22/24, 5HP30) overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) coverage (if applicable to specific models).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service and repair.
Interior:
Interior trim, seating systems, and electronic features.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults.
Rebuilding:
Complete engine and transmission rebuilding procedures.
Tune Up:
Detailed tune-up procedures, including ignition timing and fuel mixture adjustments.
Replacement:
Component replacement for all major parts, with torque specifications.
Adjustment:
Adjustments for various systems, such as throttle linkage, parking brake.
Calibration:
Calibration procedures for electronic systems (where applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail with hundreds of photos and illustrations.
Target Audience:
Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike.
Engine 1 Variant:
3.5L M30B35 inline-6
Engine 1 Displacement:
3430 cc (3.5 Liters)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 208-211 hp @ 5700-5900 rpm (depending on market/year)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 225-228 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm (depending on market/year)
Engine 2 Variant:
4.0L M60B40 V8
Engine 2 Displacement:
3982 cc (4.0 Liters)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 3 Variant:
5.0L M70B50 V12
Engine 3 Displacement:
4988 cc (5.0 Liters)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
Approx. 295 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 332 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
0 60 Mph 735I:
Approx. 7.8-8.5 seconds
0 60 Mph 740I:
Approx. 6.5-7.0 seconds
0 60 Mph 750Il:
Approx. 7.0-7.4 seconds
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection (DME).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline.
Transmission Type:
Automatic transmission was standard on most models.
Optional Transmission:
Manual transmission was rarely offered, if at all, on E32 models.
Automatic Transmission Models:
ZF 4HP22 (735i), ZF 4HP24 (early 740i), ZF 5HP30 (late 740i, 750iL).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific Dexron/Mercon type ATF, consult manual for exact specification (e.g., Dexron II-E or III).
Wheelbase Standard:
Approx. 117.4 inches (2982 mm)
Wheelbase Long:
Approx. 124.4 inches (3160 mm) for iL models
Length Standard:
Approx. 196.3 inches (4985 mm)
Length Long:
Approx. 203.3 inches (5165 mm) for iL models
Curb Weight 735I:
Approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg)
Curb Weight 750Il:
Approx. 4400-4600 lbs (1996-2087 kg)
Wheelbase:
Specific values vary by model (735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL).
Crash Test Data:
NHTSA and IIHS ratings from this era are limited but generally reflect robust construction for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Asc:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Traction Control (ASC+T) available on later models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard during the E32's production run.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory premium sound systems, often with cassette players and optional CD changers.
On Board Computer:
On-Board Computer (OBC) displaying trip data, fuel economy, and system diagnostics.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking sensors ('Park Distance Control') were introduced later in the E32's life.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated car phone systems in some markets.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; for M30 inline-6, typically around 30,000 miles. For V8/V12, consult manual.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended around 50,000-80,000 miles or as per manual, especially for the automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 15W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Synthetic oils are highly recommended. Consult manual.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based with corrosion inhibitors). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Electrical Problems:
Water ingress into fuse box, failing OBC display pixels, door lock actuators, window regulators.
Common Mechanical Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), front suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), VANOS system issues (on later V8s if equipped), subframe bushings.
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on M30), oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), timing chain guides wear (M60/M70).
Common Transmission Issues:
ZF automatic transmissions can develop leaks and wear over time; mechatronic unit issues.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E32 7 Series consistently ranked highly and was a frequent contender on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production years.
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Praised by automotive journalists for its advanced technology, ride comfort, and driving dynamics compared to its predecessors and competitors.
