Bmw 7 series body e38. Should I buy a BMW E38? Weaknesses, reviews of BMW E38 owners. You can't find a good E38, you can't restore a bad one

One of the federal channels still constantly broadcasts films of this kind. I won't say which one. I will only say that its name begins with "H" and ends with "TV". But times are changing - so are the "war chariots". Take the same "Boomer". A true lifestyle icon and a textbook for young people whose style is an elegant combination of a tracksuit and classic pointy shoes.

And then it's time to talk about the "seven" BMW in the back of the E38, which appears throughout the film as the fifth protagonist. They stopped producing this car almost fifteen years ago, but even now, hardly anyone will say that its design looks outdated. The car is big, impressive, formidable, still forcing respect on the roads. At least provincial cities. Moreover, the buyer of such a car will have, and even more than once, the opportunity to feel the aura of fear experienced by the elderly on the old Zhiguli as a reminder of the times when jeans and chewing gum were only gaining popularity in Russia. And this means that it is liked mainly by young people under thirty, dressed in tracksuits and continuing to click seeds, even going to binge. I'm serious! Look closely the next time a tinted window opens at an E38 at a traffic light, you're bound to see a young guy shaking husks onto the pavement.

BMW 7 Series (E38)

However, to hell with sentimentality! The car is truly legendary, stuffed with innovations (by the standards of the time), which was, in addition, Frank Martin's personal transport in the film "Transporter". It may indeed be of interest to many. In one of the specialized Internet clubs, you will find crowds of people who are ready to part with their own granny for organs rather than with their E38.

But is this "seven" so good? And where did the young guys get executive class cars from? I'm not talking about grandmothers at all. I'll try to explain. The car in this body was produced until 2001. That is, any existing copy today is at least 14 years old. And given the cost of maintaining such an artifact, the number of advertisements for sale on electronic platforms is quite understandable. To find a fresher copy, we set the last three years of production in the selection criteria, and a half-thousand armada opens up to us. Price tags start at 150 thousand rubles. for rubbish on Latvian numbers and with a dubious history. I bet that under the putty of such a machine there will be a dozen nine-millimeter holes, and under the carpets - husks of seeds? The price ceiling rests at 750 thousand for copies in excellent condition with two or three names in the TCP. If only you do not trade in crime, keeping the stalls near the house in fear, then, I believe, you will come to a reasonable 450-470 thousand.

BMW 7 Series (E38)

What can you buy with this money? Lada Priora or Largus. And even Benlad. And five copies at once, one for each working day.

Well, I do not! The true fan will choose BMW version 750i with 5.4L V12. Judge for yourself: the M73 engine relies on a solid wheelbase, leather interior (perhaps brought to the state of subcutaneous, and yet), door closers and a BMW nameplate on the trunk, which, in the end, will push the neighbor to come to you one evening for salt or matches. But do not rush to run to the seller, waving a passbook. Because everything will not be as rosy as you might think.

Does "more powerful" mean "better"?

Most often, the 7th series of those years is found with engines of 4.4 and 5.4 liters under the hood. Both are good, resourceful, but also demanding consumables. The base 3.0-liter unit also comes across, but for such a heavy car it is frankly not enough. Of course, the more power in stock, the less strain the engine, dragging you around the city. Hence the larger resource of the larger motor. Given the runs for 300-400 thousand km, it would be reasonable to take a larger engine in order to insure yourself at least against overhaul during the possession of the battered "seven".

V12 engine under the hood of the BMW 7 Series (E38)

That is why today we are talking about V12. They say that he is a bright representative of those very "millionaires" about which legends are composed. I must admit that this seems to be true. In official testing, BMW launched the M73 on the stand. At 16,000 (!) rpm, he worked continuously for 32 days before he was stopped. And after such critical loads, the engine, as you probably thought, ate oil, like Joey Chestnut, the champion hamburger eater during his favorite pastime. But no. Having disassembled the unit, the engineers did not find critical defects in the gaps and put it into production.

At the same time - the best and at the same time the worst of all details. A very controversial unit. It's not even that any engine on the E38 is prone to overheating, which can happen both from flooded non-regulated antifreeze and from a clogged radiator, usually never cleaned over the years. And not even that the optimal period for changing the oil in it is 6 thousand km, despite the fact that the oil also requires strict adherence to the regulations and requirements for quality and viscosity. The real problem 750 is an expense. If you put an explosive charge on the gas pedal, triggered by touching your foot, and fasten your right boot to the seat to protect yourself from the temptation to drown, the consumption will still be at least 16 liters per hundred. Well, if you decide to attach a “Hooligan” sticker on the windshield and turn the engine to a cutoff, then a consumption of 30 liters will make you cry at a gas station.

You can, of course, convert the car to gas, but modern equipment, coupled with the installation, costs 60-70 thousand rubles, which means that by putting it on, you will eat “doshirakami” and radish for a couple of months and, most likely, will earn heartburn .

The interior of the BMW 7 Series in the back of the E38

There was also a problem with the gearbox. No, it's from Aston Martin and it's quite good, but it wasn't designed for the huge torque (490 Nm) that our V12 gives out. So, if you start driving aggressively, expect problems. , theoretically maintenance-free, but if the oil has not been changed in it, and the car has already accumulated more than 200 thousand km, then at each switch you will have a good kick, so by the end of the day you will get home with back pain. Therefore, when inspecting this machine, pay attention to the behavior of the “machine”. There is reason to doubt the smoothness of switching - feel free to bargain.

The pendant is good. The front aluminum multi-link keeps this two-ton Heffalump on the road amazingly, but it has one. When one element fails, it soon pulls all neighboring suspension elements with it into the grave. This is the same as if you were sneezed on, and you, having refused aspirin, fell ill after a week in intensive care. An annoying feature. Therefore, get ready for the fact that with a small breakdown, while the part ordered in the store is being delivered, you will have to walk for a week, holding on to your back, cursing the suspension and lamenting that you were beaten by the gearbox.

The interior of a car that was produced 20 years ago, even today looks decent

We consider expenses

The market is crowded with this kind of cars for several reasons. Firstly, there is no "past generation" of the "seven". After the release of a new one, the rest immediately turn out to be old ones, hence the loss in price. When a car depreciates in value by half or more, those who could not afford such a car "from scratch" lay eyes on it. Then they go to the limit of the entire resource, to a major service, after which they try to get rid of the car.

In a word, instead of a new B-class foreign car, of course, you can buy a 15-year-old "old woman", but is it worth it? Replacing 10 liters of oil in a box costs 8,000 rubles. The suspension requires the replacement of consumables, such as silent blocks of the rear levers (two of 1500 rubles each), bushings of the front stabilizers (two of 600 rubles each), stabilizer tips (two of 800 rubles each) every two years, even with careful driving. And we are talking about analogues of branded spare parts!

Add here the front (2600 rubles) and rear (1500 rubles) pads, which have a hard time with a car weighing two tons, steering linkage(7000 rubles) - another weak point, as well as the cost of work (about a third of each amount). Why is there a suspension, even iridium candles, of which there are twelve, cost 600 rubles apiece, and do not forget that this is a BMW. This means that it will not work here with a “10” key and a hammer to make a major overhaul of the motor, as on the Zhiguli. Most of the work will have to be done at the service station.

We are looking for an alternative

Have you changed your mind yet? Then the only reasonable solution against this background seems to be the purchase of the "seven" in the next body. Remember, this is the controversial one that Chris Bangle had a hand in? The car with it looks more modern, rather brutal, there are pneumatic elements at the back, and this is the best-selling 7th BMW series throughout its existence. You can choose a 4.4 engine, which, although gluttonous, like a sumo wrestler, still does not ruin you in two trips around the city, like the V12 on the E38. Having spent the same half a million on the purchase of the 7th series in the back of the E65, you will not bother pressing buttons, because there is an iDrive joystick that configures all the systems of the car. And the neighbor's salt will end much more regularly.

Generally speaking, what does a person really want when buying such a car? Manageability? Maybe comfort? Unlikely. After all, then he would prefer a more affordable 5th series (for example,). Including in terms of ownership. Then, perhaps, ergonomics? Also incredible. In this case, why not choose Ford Focus or any other golf-class car that is not inferior in this criterion?

The point is still an unfulfilled dream, which, as you know, has no statute of limitations. But if it was formed by films based on the dashing 90s, then I have shocking news for you. Today, tough guys move mostly in large SUVs.

So there was one reason for the purchase, and it seems to be the most reliable. The reason is the girl. The one whose attention you are trying to attract, confess. But is it necessary to buy a "seven" BMW, a tracksuit and a gold chain? It would be cheaper and smarter to spend money on a bouquet of flowers and a dinner at a restaurant to win her over, right?

If you are simply a connoisseur of the German eternal, then there are several recommendations for you. First, don't be in a hurry to make a choice. This is the very purchase that cannot be made with the heart without connecting the mind. Be careful, be patient and wait for "your" copy. After waiting, do not rush to drive the car for service diagnostics, although this is a mandatory procedure that can save you a lot of nerves and money in the future. First, talk to the owner, understand who is in front of you and whether this person could keep such a car in decent condition. The owner who loves his car is almost always happy to talk about the problems that befell him and the decisions that had to be made to fix the problem.

Beware of cars whose wheels are shod in summer winter tires, as well as those who bought a "German", and then traveled for three years and only changed the oil. In practice, this means that all parts that have exhausted their resources will have to be changed by you. And also avoid people who, for unknown reasons, are selling a car after a couple of months of ownership. Be vigilant and pragmatic. And better - buy something simpler and fresher.

There are a lot of instructions on the net for purchasing a used E38 “seven”, describing the main problems and where to look. Nevertheless, after acquiring the first non-new BMW (and especially the e38), many do not even fully understand what they want from the purchase, and even more so they do not suspect what difficulties they may encounter after the acquisition.

This article describes the differences between the models, all engine options, options in the interior and exterior, and also talks about the features of the Individual and Highline versions. Well, all the most common “sores” are described.

BMW seventh series in the back of the E38 - wonderful cars, moreover, and very affordable. But the first drawback is that most motors fall into the most expensive category of transport tax (150r / hp).

Cars of this model are very different in character - from the modest 728i to the frisky and "sharp" 740i Sport and the sophisticated 750iL. Over the entire period of production of the car, there have been many changes in the design and interior design. The main engines: in-line "six", V8 and V12, were produced in a variety of options.

The E38 has three distinct generations, the earliest appeared in 1994, with V8 engines from the previous “seven” E32 (M60). At that time, these were fairly modern engines, they appeared in 1992. The same engine control unit (DME 3.3) was used, and an automatic 5-speed gearbox from the E32. A little later, the V12 also appeared, when the old M70 engine was upgraded, increasing the displacement, and renamed the M73.

The first major upgrade took place in 1996, when the V8 engines were heavily modified and in-line “sixes” appeared. Eight-cylinder engines grew in volume - up to 3.5 and 4.4 liters (models 735i and 740i respectively) and were renamed M62, and the 730i model was replaced by 728i, with a completely new L6 engine, very different from the previous M30.

The next upgrade took place in 1998, all engines were again improved (except for the M73, which has undergone minimal changes). The 728th (M52) motor was now equipped with a dual Vanos system, and it was no longer equipped with a nikasil coating. V8 engines also began to be equipped with the Vanos valve timing system (it “turned” the camshaft responsible for opening intake valves), which made it possible to make the “shelf” of torque more even and increase it at the peak by 20 newton meters. The power was left the same (286 forces) so as not to compete with the 750th.

Modernization touched not only engines, the list of options also changed a lot from year to year. Full list BMW options are huge, and a fully equipped car can cost twice as much as an “empty” one with the same engine. In addition to standard options, such as satellite navigation and a TV tuner, the client could order something from the Individual list. So on secondary market you may come across an instance with a rare Individual body color, but with a standard interior trim, and vice versa.

Engines and dynamic characteristics.

M52 inline-six on the 728i.

The smallest unit was installed on the 728i. An early version of the M52B28 had a nickel-plated finish, and was equipped with a variable valve timing system for intake valves only. The motor was very different from its predecessor, the M30. Block - aluminum, two camshafts in the block head, 24 valves, sequential injection and six ignition coils. Power was 186 hp.

96-98 engines are virtually indestructible, but suffer from Vanos issues that cause rough idle. In September 1998, the M52TUB28 was introduced, it was assembled without the use of Nikasil, and the Vanos system became double. Improvements allowed to reduce fuel consumption and make the engine more elastic, so the later 728 models are a little more pleasant for the driver.

The 728i isn't fast, but it isn't slow either. The car starts quite briskly, but quickly runs out of steam (compared to the rest of the E38), do not forget that in the 90s, most cars were much weaker and slower. On the highway, the 728i can still surprise you with its dynamics at high speeds. Since the engine is the smallest in the E38, it is also the lightest, so the 728i steers very decently (and this is with a weight of under 2 tons!), And in terms of handling it can compete with modern “semi-sports” cars, not to mention the cars of the 90s . The Sport version has changed gear ratios in the gearbox and in the main pair, so it accelerates a little faster.

In general, the 728i is a great “freeway eater”, which also pleases with fuel consumption (7-8 liters on the highway).

V8 engines (M60 and M62) were installed on 730i, 735i, 740i.

All V8 engines were advanced for their time: 4 camshafts in the block heads, 32 valves, sequential injection, 8 coils in the ignition system. The first E38 V8s received engines from the E32 (M60), in particular the 730i and 740i - 3.0 and 4.0 liters of working volume, respectively.

These units had a nikasil coating, and with the advent of the M62 engines, the prices of cars with old engines dropped noticeably. But now the problem with Nikasil is no longer relevant, and in terms of reliability, the M60 is in no way inferior to the M62.

In 1996, the M60 was replaced by the M62, the volume increased to 3.5 and 4.4 liters. for 735i and 740i respectively. These engines already used a new cylinder wall coating - Alusil, which was supposed to increase their wear resistance. The motors received the M62B35 and M62B44 indices, developing 235 and 286 hp. It is worth noting that on low revs motors are sluggish, developing full power only closer to the red zone of the tachometer.

In September 1998, the M62TUB35 and M62TUB44 were introduced. They differed only in the modified Vanos system, which now also affected the exhaust camshafts. The result is a smoother “pickup” from low revs, the same power and an additional 20 N / m of torque from the 4.4l motor. Turnovers idle move became a little smoother, fuel consumption decreased slightly. The engine upgrade coincided with the E38 facelift and price increases.

Model 730i (1994-1996) does not differ from 728i in terms of dynamics, but consumes more fuel (by 0.5-1 l on the highway). The 735i version is faster than both, but not by much. From the traffic light, the dynamics are not bad, but the pre-styling versions (without double Vanos) drive well only after 4000 rpm and in the sport mode of the automatic transmission.

The 740i is already in another league, the M60B40 engine in the early versions (1994-1996) although it needs to be “spinned” for full return, but still 4 liters of volume do their job, and the car “bullets”. With the M62TUB44 engine (cars after the September 1998 facelift), they already resemble a rocket with their dynamics. But on them it is very dangerous to turn off the stabilization system (DSC) on wet or slippery surfaces, since the rear axle can quickly go “in the wrong direction”. On the highway, fuel consumption is almost the same as the 735i, you can keep within 8-9 liters. With the advent of the double-vanos system, they also began to install a “smart” thermostat, which allows you to keep the engine temperature higher while driving evenly on the highway. Although the 740 can also go very smoothly and measuredly, if you need a car for leisurely walks, the 728i is more suitable.

V12 engine (M73) on the 750i.

M73 engines are incredibly reliable, and mainly due to the simplicity of design. All six-eight-cylinder E38 engines have two camshafts per block head and 4 valves per cylinder. Here - only two valves and one camshaft. The engine was produced in two versions - M73B54 and M73TUB54, both gave out 326 hp. and 490 nm The difference between them is in the control unit, there are almost no differences in the mechanical part. Both versions inherited the M70 ignition system with two coils and distributors, and this can be called weak side motor.

The M73 is very powerful and torquey, so the character of the 740i and 750i models is very different. The “late” 740i with Vanos are dynamic, nimble cars, on which it’s nice to once again press the “slipper on the floor” and listen to the engine, and the 750i is not at all slower, and at the same time much calmer, “refined”, the engine sound and thrust resembles a diesel locomotive. The main disadvantage of the V12 is the monstrous fuel consumption, it is slightly less on the TUB engine, but still extremely high. On paper, the dynamics of the 750i and later 740i are almost identical, but there's no drama in overclocking the 750. But a kind of pleasure from the thrust of a naturally aspirated engine with a volume of 5.4 liters cannot be replaced by anything! And to have a car with twelve cylinders under the hood is very honorable.

Differences between models before and after the facelift.

Exterior.

Updated cars have been produced since September 1998, but the date of the first registration may be much later. For example, there are many cars allegedly made in 1999, which are actually pre-styling. Updated cars can be distinguished primarily by the headlights and taillights.

Initially, the taillights were plastic, and suffered from depressurization (sometimes water accumulated in them, and holes had to be drilled to remove it). They were replaced with glass for the 1999 model year, and the turn signals were still orange. Since 2000, they have been updated again, the turn signal glass has become transparent.

The headlights have also changed a lot. The design itself became glass (instead of plastic), and decreased in height, so the front fenders also became different. A new design has appeared - the lower part received “roundness”, while the old one had a straight lower edge. The internal design of the headlights has not changed much.

If replacement rear lights on restyled ones is very simple (they are mounted on four bolts), then you will have to tinker with the headlights. The size of the turn signals is noticeably different, and if you just install a new headlight, there will be a noticeable gap. To remove it, you need to either modify / replace the front fenders (not the cheapest pleasure), or leave the old turn signal blocks, “disguising” them with paint around the edges under the new ones. (Similar activities were done in Europe 🙂) restyled car.

Mechanical part and electronic systems.

In the process of updating the E38 in 1998, the electronic components were upgraded. The ABS, DSC (stabilization system) and ASC (traction control) systems have changed a lot. Initially, they were all separate components. In the 740i model after 1998, they were placed in one the electronic unit located at the ABS block. The cruise control system, idle air valve and ASC system components have been combined into one EML system (system electronic control throttle), and in the 750i it happened back in 1988 on the E32 model. Mechanical changes in the engine (improvement of Vanos) are described above.

Salon equipment.

Armchairs. Three types of seats and many additional options were installed on cars - ventilation, heating and even a massager.

- very comfortable, but they lack lateral support a little. The range of settings is very wide. As an additional option, they can be equipped with heating.

- they are distinguished by additional adjustable lumbar support, also the back of the chair can be bent at the top.

Sports (anatomical) seats- have the same set of adjustments as the comfort ones, but also have adjustable hip support - part of the seat cushion can be moved forward. The seats were installed on all models of the Sport version.

Seat heating - installed as an add. option for all types. The heating system consists of two tanks with special liquid which is constantly circulating. At the same time, the seat surface changed slightly, which could confuse an unprepared driver.

Seat ventilation - quite rare, helps in hot weather.

center console, audio system, on-board computer.

Three main versions of the center console:

The multimedia system could combine many functions: navigation, TV tuner, telephone and on-board computer, without a monitor all these functions (except for the telephone) were not available. And if it is more or less possible to install a system with 4:3 instead of the base one, then with 16:9 the situation is much more complicated.

In the case of replacing a 4: 3 monitor with a large one, less fuss is required. But at the same time, you will have to change the video module (located in the trunk) to use all the capabilities of the multimedia system.

Navigation system versions.

Three navigation versions were installed on the E38: MKI, MKII and MK3. If you come across a car with MK4, then the owner installed this system himself, which is not a difficult task. And MK4 works much faster (but it is worth noting that all systems today are hopelessly outdated).

MK1 installed on early models, the system “spoke” with a male voice, and for its time was advanced and sophisticated. It consisted of a head unit, a GPS unit, a magnetic direction sensor and an antenna. She worked very slowly, and often "lost her bearings."

MK2 became a little faster, the magnetic sensor was replaced with a gyro sensor built into the head unit. The GPS unit and antenna were still separate. The Mk2 system appeared in 1998, and at first it was often buggy, "hanging" the entire multimedia system, so that none of the monitor's functions worked.

MK3 appeared in 2000 and became faster again. The GPS module in it is built into the head unit, only the antenna remained external. In this version, the system no longer “hangs”. Maps could be updated. When using a large 16:9 monitor, there is a new split-screen mode, which simultaneously displays the map and direction indicators.

MK4 the system was equipped DVD disc, worked an order of magnitude faster than its predecessors. The disk already contained the entire map of Europe, and not individual countries, as on previous versions. There was also a view function with a perspective (a view of the “top-rear” of the car, and not just from above).

Differences between Sport, Individual and Highline versions.

Sport version extremely rare, but despite this, every second advertisement for the sale of E38 (in Europe) contains exactly this word. The main differences cannot be seen with the eye - these are different gear ratios in the gearbox and main pair (option code S204A). The difference on paper is 0.1s in acceleration to a hundred, but it feels like the car goes much faster than usual.

But the steering wheel and wheels with the M badge are very often found on ordinary cars, which never turns them into Sport. Here is a list of options that have always been installed on these special versions:

M-style wheels with parallel spokes (37th design)
Shadow line bodywork
Sports wheel with M icon
Suspension S-EDC, or lowered sport suspension (without stiffness adjustment)

Obviously, it is impossible to see the other main pair in the rear differential, only the decoding of the VIN code and the list of options for a particular car will help.

Individual/Highline versions.

The E32 Series 7's Highline version was super-exclusive, with stunning interior trim (using real wood), drop-down tables, extra lighting for the rear row, and even a refrigerator between the rear seats. The E38 did not have a separate version of the Highline, but in the list of available options, you could choose almost everything that the E32 had.

But what is the Individual version? This is a car that has options that are not in the standard list. You can distinguish this version primarily by the plate with the VIN code on the front “cup” under the hood. Be sure to present the inscription Individual.

What are the options from the Individual list? It can be a non-standard body color, interior trim material (Nappa leather), door sills with Individual inscription, and much more. All this makes the car more rare, and, accordingly, increases its value.

List of standard add. equipment.

The most interesting is the system S-EDC . With a standard soft suspension, the car may seem too “rolly” to many, and it is very unpleasant to ride on a hard suspension from Alpina on poor coverage. Suspension with S-EDC automatically adjusts the damping force in real time to the specific driving situation. Or you can manually turn on the sport mode, so that the car will be controlled no worse than the Alpina. The system is very complex, so finding a car with a working EDC is a real stroke of luck. The system includes many electronic components, acceleration sensors, rudder position sensors, etc. The shock absorbers have three hydraulic valves, the whole system is controlled by a separate electronic unit. With this system, there will be an S-EDC button on the center console. The system was installed on all versions of Sport.

Another useful option is PDC (Park Distance Control) - parktronic. For a hefty car, an irreplaceable thing. The system has four sensors in the front and rear bumpers. sensors often fail, but are not very expensive.

The hydraulic drive of the trunk lid is also a nice option, which is very difficult to install on an “empty” car.

But the tire pressure monitoring system (RDS) is not so desirable - but do not confuse it with the “Tyre failure system”, which signals a flat tire by receiving information from ABS sensors. RDS is much more complicated, it was used on cars with runflat tires, included pressure sensors in the wheels themselves, temperature sensors, transmitters, antennas in the wheel arches. etc. The wheel sensors used their own battery, which over the years became unusable, and the entire sensor had to be replaced.

In the event of a malfunction, the system constantly generated an error “Check tire pressure”, at normal pressure. So it can be considered useless and harmful.

Also installed on the car: a steering wheel with electric adjustment and memory function, auto-dimming side mirrors, voice control, bluetooth, a rain sensor, and much more. even by today's standards, a twenty-year-old car is very well equipped.

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At present bmw cars in the E38 box they are “almost youngtimers”, with a beautiful body design (especially in comparison with subsequent “sevens”), a very pleasant price, relatively affordable spare parts, and they are modern enough to move around them comfortably every day. So cars (or rather, a few “live” copies) will soon move into the collection category.

Flight Translation

Production of the third 7th series E38

Production history: Production period 1993-2001 Total production 327,599

Gallery BMW L7 (760i) Karl Lagerfeld Edition

X-ray diagram of BMW E38 security systems

BMW E38 Convertible (Cabrio)

A photograph of the BMW 7 Series in the body of an E38 with an open top, the first time I came across somewhere in 2002. The American company NCE specializes in the refinement of cars, turning everything that cannot logically be a convertible into a convertible. Looking for a certain photo on the computer, I decided after a decade and a half to drive a BMW E38 NCE into a google search and still photos of only a few cars and all of a small terrible quality. That is, there were apparently not many orders for the E38, and the photographs were rather taken on soap dishes and also scanned into a computer.

Interior BMW E38 Convertible

• • Alexey, Irkutsk. I bought my seven BMW E38 in 2015, in very poor condition. But I really took it for a penny, so I threw it into the repair and got a doll. At first, the consumption was 23 liters in the city, but after the engine was sorted out and the wheels replaced with 16, the consumption dropped to 17 in the city and 12 on the highway - this is with a 4-liter engine. I skated on it for a year and I’m going to sell it - firstly, it’s very expensive for gasoline, and secondly, it’s very expensive to maintain and repair, I’m tired of constantly spending money.
  • George, Omsk. The BMW E38 is a car of such quality that it is no longer possible to find even among the Germans. If hands grow from where it is necessary - in maintenance it is not as expensive as it is believed. Despite the fact that my 735i was released back in 1998, it breaks down little things and basically everything is connected with the hodovka. The motor and gearbox work perfectly. In terms of consumption in the city, 17 liters come out - a lot, I agree, and the engine is powerful. And on the track at 9-10 you can meet.

External review of the BMW E38

The appearance of the representative Bavarian is notable for the fact that this is the second car of the brand, after the 3-series E36, with glazed headlight lenses. The car is offered with only one body type - a sedan. The sedan can be with a standard wheelbase and extended by 100mm, while the car becomes 140mm longer. The long-wheelbase version can be identified by wider rear doors and "iL" lettering on the stern ("L" stands for Long). Long-wheelbase modification could be with any engine, except for petrol 2.8 and diesel 2.5t. The design of the "seven" became the prototype for the "five" in the body of the E39 - note the similarity of the two models. In 1998, a modernization was carried out, the updated "seven" is easiest to recognize by the headlights rounded at the bottom.

Interior equipment and equipment E38

The BMW of the seventh series was equipped with a foot parking brake, not a handbrake, the seats have a lot of electric adjustments, even the headrest is controlled by a servo. A heated steering wheel rim was offered as an option. The car can be equipped with ten airbags. In the glove compartment, in front of the passenger, there is a flashlight that is attached to charger- you can get it. An optional audio system with fourteen speakers has a power of 440 watts. Often, massage was installed on the sevens of the last years of production.

The luggage compartment has a volume of 500 liters, which is quite enough for family car(today the thirty-eighth is often used in this role). AT luggage compartment the battery is located. The “boost” function of the trunk lid indicates the premium nature of this vehicle.

Technical part and characteristics of the BMW 7-series E38

The least powerful gasoline BMW engine The 7-series E38 was 2.8 (M52 motor series). The six-cylinder unit developed 193 horsepower, and even this engine made the sedan quite dynamic, it took 8.6s for a BMW with mechanics to accelerate to a hundred, with an automatic transmission, acceleration lasted a second longer.

The next most powerful gasoline modification was the 730i with a 3.0 V8 M60 engine, which in 96 was replaced by 3.5 with 235 forces M62 - BMW 735. Three of these engines were not available in the States, only powerful sedans were supplied to the USA. The 740i version initially had a volume of 4.0 liters, but in 1996 the volume was increased to 4.4, the model was still called 740i, while the power remained practically unchanged - 285 forces before and 286 after modernization. The most powerful and most coveted is the 750i with a twelve-cylinder unit of 5.4 liters, 326 horses and a moment of 490Nm, the engine belongs to the M73 series. The 750i is gaining the first hundred in 6.6s, the maximum speed of the "seven" is electronically limited - 250 km.

The least slow-moving of all sevens is the 725td with 143 forces, with the mechanics, the diesel Bavarian gains a hundred in 11.5s, and with the automatic in 12.2s - not Bavarian slowly. The diesel 730d has a power of 193 hp, and the 740d has 245 hp. Diesel versions were also not delivered to the states.

All power units have an aluminum block, which is considered not to be overhauled, but our craftsmen have learned how to sleeve it. Before a major overhaul, gasoline engines run at 400 - 700 thousand, but it is worth remembering that overheating is the worst enemy for a BMW, the cooling radiator should be cleaned at least once a year. There are known cases of engine breakdowns due to water hammer, the air intake is located quite low, so it is worth slowing down in front of large puddles.

Only the "weakest" versions with petrol 2.8 and diesel 2.5 in the base were equipped with mechanics, the rest of the versions already in the base came with automatic five-speed gearboxes gears. The E38 automatic is one of the world's first adaptive automatics that can adapt to the driver's driving style (AGS system).

An optional tire pressure system was offered, which alerted the driver to reduced or, conversely, increased tire pressure. In the 7-Series E38, the Break Control system appeared, which, when the brake pedal is pressed sharply, increases the pressure in the brake circuit, in those years such a system was found only on very expensive cars.

The front stabilizer struts live for 35,000. Silent blocks of the front suspension go for 50 thousand, and ball ones for 100,000, but they should be changed only with levers (like silent blocks).

upper arms rear suspension are made of aluminum and therefore serve less than the lower ones - 60 - 90nsc, while the lower ones go at 200 and even 250 thousand.

The 750i was equipped with air suspension as standard, which can raise the body by 5 cm, for other modifications this system is an option.

The classic silhouette and well-thought-out interior have made the third-generation BMW 7 the dream of many car enthusiasts. BMW with model code E38 debuted in 1994. Two years later, the engine line was revised, and in 1998, a restyling was carried out. A characteristic feature of the updated version is headlights with enlarged round reflectors. In 2001 there was a change of generations.

BMW 7 series e38, in a sense, a cult car. A significant contribution to this was made by Pierce Brosnan (James Bond, "Tomorrow Never Dies"), Jason Statham ("The Transporter"), and of course the Russian film "Boomer".

The car was offered only in a sedan body. The length of 4.98 meters and the wheelbase of 2.93 meters indicate that we are dealing with a representative of the highest class. In the secondary market, you can find an extended version with the letter “L”, which has a length of 5.12 meters and a wheelbase of 3.07 meters.

As befits a flagship, there is no need to complain about the level of equipment of the BMW e38. Even in the very first copies on board there is a two-zone air conditioner(albeit with manual control), a multifunction steering wheel, a front panel decorated with walnut wood elements, and velor upholstery. Leather trim was on the options list. In later instances, the DSC dynamic stability control system, a telephone built into the center console, navigation with a screen and a TV tuner (standard equipment since 2000) appeared. In copies of the last years of production, there is even an active cruise control. Many owners have expressed their appreciation to BMW engineers for the excellent ergonomics, great interior design, plenty of space and power seats with a fair amount of adjustment.

Classic and functional. Age is given away by burnt pixels on amber displays, cracked leather seats and creaking plastic.

The oldest copies of the BMW e38 in the basic equipment had only two airbags (side airbags were available as an option) and the HPS head protection system. In the extended versions, make-up mirrors or additional television screens could be installed in the headrests. Wooden folding tables could also be mounted in the backs of the front seats. For a surcharge, an optional audio system with 14 speakers, up to 4 subwoofers and a digital sound equalizer were installed in the German sedan.

The car is wide, but sitting in the middle is uncomfortable due to the profile of the sofa and the high tunnel.

Engines

At first, the car was offered only with petrol V8s with a displacement of 3.0 liters and 4.0 liters. In addition, there was a flagship V12 with a capacity of 5.4 liters and a power of 326 hp. In subsequent years, more modest inline 6-cylinder engines appeared: 2.8-liter gasoline and 2.5-liter and 2.9-liter diesel engines. The latter became widely popular in Europe, and the model received the designation 730d. Since the update in 1998, the lineup replenished with a diesel engine - V8 with a working volume of 4.0 liters.

What problems haunt BMW e38 owners? First of all, it's overheating. gasoline engines. The cooling system requires constant monitoring of its condition. In addition, the pump often fails. Sometimes there are expensive to eliminate oil leakage from under the crankshaft oil seals, cylinder head or oil filter. One of the common ailments of cars with gasoline units is corrosion of the fuel tank.

For car enthusiasts with little money, the BMW e 38 with the weakest 2.8-liter engine in the lineup is better suited. This is the only 6-cylinder engine in the petrol range. It handles the weight of a large sedan quite well and is inexpensive to maintain. Much more dynamic 3-liter aspirated. But many copies have an exorbitant oily appetite. No less interesting is the 3.5-liter unit. It already allows you to fully experience all the delights of the "seven".

The cost of maintaining a BMW e38 grows in proportion to power power unit. So the 4.4-liter unit is too voracious, and the cost of repairing the V12 will be simply cosmic. Finding spare parts is difficult and there are no substitutes. There are also two engine control harnesses, two computers and two fuel systems. In fact, the V12 is two in-line "sixes" combined into a single whole.

Special care must be taken in choosing diesel BMW 7. Base 2.5 TDS for this model is too weak. Not only is a sedan with such an engine very sluggish, but the engine still suffers due to numerous defects. The most vulnerable injection pump and cylinder head.

Among diesel engines the most acceptable choice is a 2.9-liter unit. Once this turbodiesel was considered the best in its class. Unfortunately, over time, it becomes more and more expensive to operate. Nozzles fail (the cost of a new one is more than 10,000 rubles), a pulley, a flow meter. Exhaust leaks into the crankcase or a worn out turbocharger can lead to costly repairs. Interestingly, due to the fact that the engines are paired with an automatic transmission, the dual-mass flywheel does not present any problems for a very long time.

We strongly recommend avoiding the BMW e38 with the top diesel V8 displacement of 3.9 liters and twin turbocharging. The engine is considered a real masterpiece of engineering, but only 3,500 of these copies were produced. Therefore, it is better not to even mention the possible costs of repairs. It should also be borne in mind that the huge torque of 590 Nm is poorly digested by the automatic transmission and differential. Periodic oil changes will extend the life of the machine.

In keeping with tradition, all BMW e38 engines are equipped with a maintenance-free timing chain. The manufacturer recommends only periodically monitoring its condition. In reality, the timing drive needs to be updated after 300,000 km.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Most instances have numerous problems. Most often on the part of electricians, who do not tolerate unprofessional intervention and savings. Already in 1998, a liquid-cooled generator entered the standard equipment of cars with V8 and V12 engines. The cost of a new one is about 35,000 rubles. In used copies, monitors, indicators, various sensors and additional equipment often turn out to be faulty. Relatively often the air conditioning control unit fails.

Due to the large number of electrical equipment accumulator battery has a low service life.

BMW e38 suspension for a car of this class is quite cheap to repair. For about 15,000 rubles, you can replace all silent blocks and ball joints on one axle. However, versions with active self-levelling hydropneumatic suspension should be avoided. rear axle. The restoration of only one sphere with nitrogen will require at least 8,000 rubles, and a shock absorber - about 15,000 rubles. A new shock absorber will cost 30,000 rubles.

The suspension is considered hardy. The first problems begin to arise after 150-200 thousand km. There are many quality substitutes on the market.

In pre-styling copies, window frames are often poorly fitted.

During inspection, it is necessary to check the condition of the body. Even cars that have never been in an accident (and there are very few of them) can rust. Traces of corrosion should be looked for on the trunk lid, in the corners of the doors, on the edges of the wings and under the door seals.

Automatic pre-styling versions are considered not to be killed.

Conclusion

The BMW 7 Series e38 is not for everyone. Instance in good condition will give many pleasant moments. Durability is highly rated. However, maintaining a good condition requires large financial costs. The most preferred 8-cylinder gasoline engines with a displacement of 3.5, 4.0 and 4.4 liters.

Specifications BMW 7 Series (E38) 1994 – 2001

The 3rd generation of BMW 7-series sedans, which received the E38 index, debuted in June 1994, replacing the previous "seven" E32. The design of the new BMW flagship has been determined previous model: low hood topped with branded "nostrils" of the radiator grille, large windows. The workmanship of the body has been brought to perfection, and the gaps between the body panels have become minimal.

The same quality is inside: the interior is made in a typically German strict and restrained style, the center console is slightly turned towards the driver. He sits as if in the cockpit of a fighter - he is surrounded by instruments and control buttons for auxiliary systems. But, unfortunately, there was not so much free space for the front riders, by the standards of the class.

The main attention was paid to the passengers of the second row - there was so much space that even a tall person could safely cross his legs.

Passenger comfort was taken care of by the NR body control and the ASC automatic body stabilization. The ECS system electronically controlled the stiffness of the shock absorbers, which, of course, affected the comfort in better side. The ventilation and temperature control system made it possible to set a different climate for the driver and passengers in the front and rear seats.
All "sevens" had decent basic equipment, which included power accessories, a multifunction steering wheel, an audio system, ABS, an on-board computer, a standard alarm system with an immobilizer, etc. But one of the richest was the BMW 750iL. In addition to the above, it was standardly equipped with Park Distance Control, a 5-speed automatic transmission, self-adjusting suspension, a cell phone with voice dialing, heated front and rear seats, an audio system consisting of 14 speakers, the power of which was 440 watts, a navigation system, on-board TV and aluminum wheels.
The choice of additional options was limited only by the imagination and material capabilities of the customer. Here are just a few of them:
*Sportpacket M (sports seats and steering wheel, special interior color, birch or walnut inserts, 18" alloy wheels), except 740iL and 750iL;
*more advanced head unit with CD reading capability and Hi-Hi system;

*Shadow-Line (no external chrome);

* Chrome-Line Interiur (chrome inserts in the cabin);

* monitor for rear passengers;

*additional cell phone for the rear row of seats.

There were versions with a base extended by 140 mm, indicated by the letter L.

But the longest "seven" in the back of the E38 was the L7 model. It was built on a BMW 750i base extended by 390 mm.

The space behind the front seats has been completely redesigned: a partition appeared that separates the driver from the second row of seats, its own audio system, DVD player, especially valuable wood and high-quality leather were used in the decoration.

Both long-wheelbase "sevens" could be produced in a lightly armored (class B4) version, called "Protection". They were equipped with bulletproof glass, parts that enhance the security of the body, and wheels with the ability to ride after a puncture or lumbago.
The range of engines was simply huge: 725tds (very rare and produced only 2 years), 728i, 730d, 730i, 735i, 740d, 740i, 750i. All motors met Euro-3 standards. Even the smallest 3 liter six-cylinder diesel engine could accelerate to hundreds in 8 seconds, with a top speed of 220 km/h.

What can we say about other more powerful engines, and even more so about the flagship 5.4 liter gasoline V12 with the factory index M73 B54, which has 326 horsepower and accelerates a two-ton sedan to hundreds in 6 seconds. The maximum speed, electronically limited, reached 250 km / h.

The motors could be aggregated with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Almost immediately, sales began in the United States. For the Americans, the most powerful "sevens" were offered - 740i and 750i and their long-wheelbase versions. They can be distinguished by different optics and trunk lid.

The main reason for the success of BMW in the back of the E38 was that the Bavarian engineers managed the almost impossible - a compromise between handling and comfort.
The popularity of the E38 from year to year was also added by auxiliary electronic systems, according to which it was one step ahead of other competitors. Among the electronic filling is a dynamic motion stabilization system (DSC), adaptive automatic transmission gears (AGS), which allows you to change the gearshift algorithm depending on the driving modes, electronic system ELM motor control.

Another trump card of the car was outstanding safety. The car body had programmable deformation zones. All "sevens" were equipped with several airbags for both front and rear passengers. New system Head Protection System, which is an inflatable umbrella that unfolds diagonally from the windshield pillar to the roof above the tailgate, provided head protection for passengers sitting in front. The safety of those who were seated behind was provided by airbags built into the doors.

Also, the car was equipped with locks that block the doors from opening by children, the Dynamic Stability Control system and built-in sensors that automatically open the doors and turn on emergency lights and interior lights in the event of a serious accident.

In 1995, the tuning studio Alpina released the most powerful and technologically advanced "seven" -.

Around the same time, the equally eminent Hamann and Schnitzer studios offered their "charged" versions of the E38.

In September 1998, the car underwent a slight restyling, during which the front of the car, the interior changed slightly, a chrome strip appeared above the number on the trunk.

Now it is possible to install the Sportpaket M on the 740i version. One of the engines, the 4.4-liter V8 M62, has undergone a light upgrade: new dual-vanos valves have appeared. Power and torque have not changed, but their peak began to be achieved at lower speeds.
In 2000, based on the BMW 750iL, a hydrogen-powered concept car was built, called the 750hL (CleanEnergy Concept).

The standard V12 engine has been converted to run on hydrogen. The car had a 140 liter hydrogen tank refueled at -250°C and could travel 400 km without refueling. Acceleration to hundreds took 9.6 seconds, the maximum speed was 226 km / h.

During tests at the Nurburgring, the lap time was 9 minutes 53 seconds. After testing, ten 750hls were sent on a world tour to demonstrate the capabilities of hydrogen units.
"Seven" in the back of the E38 was very popular in Europe and even starred in films: in one of the parts of the "James Bond" - "Tomorrow Never Dies", and the cult film by Luc Beson "The Transporter". Residents of Russia remembered the car for the no less cult film "Boomer".

The BMW 7-series E38 was produced until July 2001, when it was replaced by the new seven BMW E65 / 66 2002 model year, marking the arrival of a new era in design. Prices for the most affordable BMW 728i with manual transmission in recent months in Germany started at 95,300DM (about 48.000€).