Market Position:
Flagship luxury sedan of its era, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS.
Competitive Analysis:
The E32 7 Series offered a blend of advanced technology, performance, and luxurious appointments, setting benchmarks for executive sedans.
Key Features:
Introduction of the V12 engine in a BMW sedan, advanced electronic systems, focus on driver comfort and dynamics.
Models Covered:
735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL
Manual Type:
Factory Edition Workshop Manual
Language:
English (assumed from typical factory manuals of this era, clarification may be needed)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical system, fuel system, fuel supply system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch (manual), manual transmission, automatic transmission (4HP22/H+EH, 4HP24/EH, 5HP18, 5HP30), gear shift mechanism, propeller shaft, transfer box (if applicable).
Suspension Steering Braking:
Front axle, steering and wheel alignment, rear axle, brakes, pedals, wheels and tires, integrated suspension system.
Body And Chassis:
Body, body equipment.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, fluid changes, inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, common faults and fixes.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (covering all aspects of repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, hints, tips, specifications, data).
Engine Family:
M30 (inline-6), M70 (V12), M60 (V8)
Engine Codes Covered:
M30 B30M, M30 B30MZ, M30 B35M, M30 B35MZ, M70 B50M, M60 B30M, M60 B40M
735I/Il Engine Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3430 cc)
740I/Il Engine Displacement:
4.0 Liters (3982 cc)
750Il Engine Displacement:
5.0 Liters (4988 cc)
735I/Il Horsepower Approx:
208-211 hp (depending on market and specific engine variant)
740I/Il Horsepower Approx:
282-296 hp (depending on market and specific engine variant)
750Il Horsepower Approx:
296-326 hp (depending on market and specific engine variant)
735I/Il Torque Approx:
214-224 lb-ft (depending on market and specific engine variant)
740I/Il Torque Approx:
295-310 lb-ft (depending on market and specific engine variant)
750Il Torque Approx:
332-361 lb-ft (depending on market and specific engine variant)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Standard Transmission Type:
Automatic Transmission (depending on model and market)
Optional Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission (for certain 6-cylinder models)
Automatic Transmission Options:
4 HP 22/H+EH, 4 HP 24/EH, 5 HP 18, 5 HP 30
Transmission Control:
Electronic control for most automatic transmissions
Wheelbase 735I 740I:
2,972 mm (117.0 in)
Wheelbase 735Il 740Il 750Il:
3,072 mm (121.0 in)
Length 735I 740I:
4,970 mm (195.7 in)
Length 735Il 740Il 750Il:
5,070 mm (199.6 in)
Curb Weight Range Approx:
1,700 - 2,050 kg (3,748 - 4,519 lbs) depending on model and configuration
Safety Ratings:
No official NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings from the era are readily available for this specific model year range, but designed to meet contemporary safety standards for luxury vehicles.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), advanced suspension designs for stability.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags (standard on later models), reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing crumple zones, seatbelt pretensioners.
Infotainment Features:
BMW Professional radio/cassette system, optional CD player, early forms of navigation systems (On-Board Computer), multi-function steering wheel.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, power adjustable steering column with memory, parking distance sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) introduced on later models.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically analog systems for basic communication if a car phone was optioned.
Oil Change Interval Approx:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Approx:
Refer to manual; typically 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Approx:
Refer to manual; often around 50,000-100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, manual transmissions typically longer unless issues arise.
Engine Oil Type Approx:
API SN/SP, ACEA A3/B4, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact specifications based on engine variant and climate).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors, refer to manual for specific BMW part numbers).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4Hp22 Approx:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for precise BMW specification).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 5Hp18 5Hp30 Approx:
Dexron III or LT3 (refer to manual for precise BMW specification).
Common Issues Engine:
Head gasket leaks (M60/M70), VANOS system issues (later M60/M73), cooling system component failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), oil leaks from various seals and gaskets.
Common Issues Electrical:
Failing ABS modules, door module issues, headlight leveling system faults, pixelated instrument cluster displays.
Common Issues Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, self-leveling suspension (rear) issues (if equipped).
Common Issues Body:
Corrosion, headliner sagging, window regulator failures.
Recognitions:
The E32 7 Series was widely praised for its engineering, performance, and luxury, often cited as a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment during its production run.
Ratings:
Consistently received high marks from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, comfort, and technological innovation for the period.
Certifications:
Designed and manufactured to meet stringent German and international automotive standards of quality and safety.
