🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

740iL

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E38

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (E38)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1997 BMW 740iL represented the pinnacle of German luxury sedans in its era, targeting executive and discerning buyers prioritizing comfort, performance, and advanced technology.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with flagship sedans from Mercedes-Benz (S-Class), Audi (A8), and Lexus (LS).

Key Features:

Long wheelbase for enhanced rear passenger comfort, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, extensive luxury amenities, and early adoption of advanced electronic systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete service and repair of the 1997 BMW 740iL

Page Count:

Estimates suggest over 1,500 pages of detailed technical information, though exact count not provided for software.

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostics

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Component Removal and Installation, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair and Overhaul, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications and Tolerances

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnosis, and advanced diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software, likely searchable and bookmarked for easy navigation. May include interactive diagrams.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format) - High-resolution, easily printable pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Engine Code:

M62B44

Displacement:

4.4 Liters (4398 cc)

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque:

317 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic M5.2 engine management

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 32 Valves

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Emission Control:

Catalytic converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

ZF 5HP30

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 740iL in 1997

Transmission Features:

Adaptive transmission control, Steptronic manual shifting mode

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

201.5 inches (5118 mm)

Width:

73.2 inches (1859 mm)

Height:

56.9 inches (1445 mm)

Wheelbase:

119.7 inches (3040 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,180 lbs (1896 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,300 lbs (2404 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA under modern standards, but designed with significant safety features.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASC+T)

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, Side-impact protection system, Crumple zones, Reinforced passenger cell

Front Brakes:

Vented Discs

Rear Brakes:

Solid Discs

Steering Type:

Hydraulic Power-Assisted Rack and Pinion

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette system with optional CD changer. Early navigation systems (CCC) available on some models.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC) optional, Automatic climate control

Connectivity Features:

Onboard computer, early telematics options.

Lighting Features:

Xenon Headlights (optional), Automatic Headlight Leveling

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Check Condition Based Service (CBS) system if equipped.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles for original equipment spark plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or as per specific coolant manufacturer recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Refer to manual for exact specifications.

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent specified for ZF 5HP30 transmission)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Known Issues:

Valve cover gasket leaks, cooling system hose deterioration, ABS/DSC sensor failures, VANOS system issues, O2 sensor failures, pixilation on the instrument cluster LCD display.

Common Repairs:

Water pump replacement, thermostat housing leaks, serpentine belt replacement, ignition coil replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for building premium, performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and advanced engineering.

Model Evolution:

The E38 generation (1994-2001) succeeded the E32 and introduced significant advancements in technology, safety, and refinement. The 740iL, with its extended wheelbase, was a key model in this generation.

Production Years:

E38 generation produced from 1994 to 2001.

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 model year may be harder to pinpoint, the E38 generation was generally lauded for its refinement, luxury, and engineering prowess, often receiving high marks in automotive press reviews of the period.