3rd generation BMW sedans The 7-series, which received the E38 index, debuted in June 1994, replacing the previous "seven" E32. The design of the new BMW flagship was determined by the previous model: a 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 for the better. 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, multifunction steering wheel, audio system, ABS, on-board computer, standard alarm system with immobilizer, etc. But one of the richest was the BMW 750iL. In addition to the above, it was standardly equipped with a Park Distance Control system, a 5-speed automatic transmission, a self-adjusting suspension, a cell phone with voice dialing, heated front and rear seats, an audio system consisting of 14 speakers with a power of 440 watts, a navigation system, an onboard TV and aluminum rims.
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 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 others 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. Max Speed, limited by electronics, 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), an adaptive automatic transmission (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 "Bondiana" - "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€).
Since the second generation was discontinued, it was decided to release the third generation of the legendary Seven, this is the BMW 7-Series e38. This model was shown to the public in 1993 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and the following year it went into production. After 4 years, a restyled version was released, which was produced until 2001.
This is a luxury car that was not weak competition from the W140 from Mercedes-Benz. Now, despite the years, it still remains expensive, but only in terms of maintenance, the initial cost is low.
Exterior
The model has a good appearance even now, but still it lacks some notes of modernity. Installed narrow headlights with circles, having a halogen filling. The long hood of the car received a wide stamping and it is also one with the original grille. The bumper of the car has plastic inserts and chrome parts, as well as fog lights at the bottom.
The side of the sedan has small wheel arch extensions and small stamping lines, both at the top and bottom. In the middle there is a molding decorated with a chrome insert. Also, chrome is present on top as a window trim and, in fact, this is where the interesting details on the side end.
The back of the BMW 7-Series e38 flaunts a long trunk lid, and there are also oval lights with halogen filling at the back. The rear bumper also has a plastic molding. Since we're in the back, let's take a look at the trunk. It is not bad here, its volume is 500 liters and it is decent.
sedan dimensions:
- length - 4983 mm;
- width - 1862 mm;
- height - 1435 mm;
- wheelbase - 2931 mm;
- clearance - 120 mm.
There was a Long version, which was 141 mm longer and, accordingly, had a longer wheelbase. On all other planes it is the same.
Salon
The interior decoration is not bad, it is certainly not the best by modern standards, but still stylish. Power-adjustable leather seats were installed, the same in some trim levels could be located at the back. There is a lot of free space, there are no complaints about this. In general, the entire interior is trimmed with good leather, and will also please with the use of high-quality wood.
How chic the back row will be depends on the configuration, the regular version will flaunt its climate control and a large armrest in the middle. BMW version The 7-Series e38 Long will get two folding tables with a cup holder and another footrest.
The driver's seat has a leather 4-spoke steering wheel, on which there are buttons, with which you can control the radio and cruise control. The instrument panel, in principle, is not surprising, it has large analog sensors and a small on-board computer. There is an analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and oil temperature.
The center console received two rectangular air deflectors in the upper part, and under them there is a head unit. The radio tape recorder is a cassette, but even then it had a small square display on the right. Below we are greeted by a large separate climate control control unit, there are any functions that you may need.
The tunnel also has a lot of wood and leather, its initial part has a large gear selector. In the same area is the alarm button, there is also an ashtray. The large armrest has a huge niche for small things, but there is also a phone into which you can insert a SIM card and use it.
The doors are of very high quality, they are sheathed in leather, have wooden inserts, as well as niches for small items and the so-called pocket. In general, the salon is not bad even for modern times. Even then, the interior had 10 airbags and a 440-watt music system.
Specifications BMW 7-Series e38
| Type of | Volume | Power | Torque | Overclocking | Max Speed | Number of cylinders |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel | 2.5 l | 143 HP | 280 H*m | 11.3 sec. | 206 km/h | 6 |
| Diesel | 2.9 l | 184 HP | 390 H*m | 9.2 sec. | 220 km/h | 6 |
| Diesel | 2.9 l | 193 HP | 280 H*m | 8.9 sec. | 220 km/h | 6 |
| Diesel | 3.9 l | 143 HP | 560 H*m | 8.4 sec. | 242 km/h | V8 |
| Petrol | 2.8 l | 193 HP | 280 H*m | 8.7 sec. | 228 km/h | 6 |
| Petrol | 3.5 l | 235 HP | 320 H*m | 7.6 sec. | 244 km/h | V8 |
| Petrol | 3.5 l | 238 HP | 345 H*m | 7.6 sec. | 244 km/h | V8 |
| Petrol | 4.4 l | 286 HP | 440 H*m | 6.6 sec. | 250 km/h | V8 |
| Petrol | 5.4 l | 320 HP | 490 H*m | 6.6 sec. | 250 km/h | V12 |
This car has 9 engines in the line, there are both diesel and gasoline. It is noteworthy that a diesel engine was not installed on Long. Let's take a closer look and start with diesel engines.
- The base diesel and almost all other engines are 6-cylinder in-line engines. The first has a volume of 2.5 liters and it produces 143 horsepower and 280 units of torque. Passport expense 11 liters in the city.
- The second unit received a volume of 2.9 liters, and it already produces 184 horsepower, and the torque is 360 H * m. It will consume 1 liter more.
- The third unit is a copy of the previous one, but its power has been increased by 9 Horse power, but the torque increased by 50 H*m. This slightly improved the dynamics, but did not affect the consumption in any way.
- The latest BMW 7-Series e38 diesel is already a 3.9-liter V8 and it already has 245 horsepower and 560 units of torque. Consumption of about 15 liters.
You can see the dynamics in the table above, and we are moving on to gasoline engines.
- The first engine received 2.8 liters of volume and 193 horses, and the torque is 280 H * m. Consumption is about 14 liters of AI-95.
- The 3.5-liter V8 produces 235 horsepower and 320 units of torque. It consumes as much as 18 liters of gasoline.
- There is the same engine, but already giving out 238 horses and 345 units of torque.
- Another V8 in the line is a 4.4-liter unit and it produces 286 horsepower and 440 units of torque. Consumption is also in the region of 18 liters.
- The last engine is the legendary V12, which produced 326 horsepower and 490 H * m of torque. About 20 liters he will spend in the city.
Suspension and gearbox BMW 7-Series e38
The model received a fully independent suspension, which is a two-lever system in front and a system with 4 levers in the rear. The chassis is soft, but not very reliable on our roads, since the upper part is made of aluminum. Ball joints will have to be changed after 100,000 kilometers, and silent blocks change every 50,000 kilometers.
Suspension in some trim levels can be pneumatic.
The units are paired with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission, depending on the engine. A 5-speed automatic transmission is also offered. All boxes transmit power to the rear axle. The brakes are fully disc, and they are ventilated at the front.
Price
This machine is no longer sold new, but it can be easily found on secondary market in almost every major city. On average they sell for 300 000 rubles, but there are options for 500 000 rubles. You get for this relatively little money a premium car with a lot of quality.
It is better to buy this model not for the average amount, but for 500 thousand and above. The bottom line is that most cars on the secondary market are in a terrible state. The model is reliable, but age has taken its toll, so you have to invest anyway, and parts are very expensive.
We do not recommend taking it with the last money, but if you really want more money than you need and if you don’t feel sorry for them, then buy it. She will please you with many things, the car is excellent, but unfortunately, a little old and very expensive to maintain.
Video review of the BMW 7-Series e38
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. characteristic feature updated version- 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 dual-zone climate control system (albeit with manual control), a multifunctional steering wheel, a front panel decorated with walnut wood elements, and velor upholstery. Leather trim was on the options list. In later copies, a dynamic control system appeared exchange rate stability DSC, telephone integrated in the center console, navigation with screen and TV tuner (standard since 2000). In copies recent years production even has 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 an output 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. After the update carried out in 1998, the model range was 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 quite well. big sedan and at the same time 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 the power of the 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.
With extreme caution, you must approach the choice of diesel BMW 7. The 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 axis. However, versions with active self-levelling hydropneumatic rear axle suspension should be avoided. 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 a car 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
| Version | 728i | 735i | 740i | 750i | 725 tds |
| Engine | petrol | petrol | petrol | petrol | turbodis |
| Working volume | 2793 cm3 | 3498 cm3 | 4398 cm3 | 5379 cm3 | 2497 cm3 |
| Arrangement of cylinders / valves | R6/24 | V8/24 | V8/24 | V12/48 | R6/12 |
| Max Power | 193 HP / 5300 | 235 HP / 5700 | 286 HP / 5700 | 326 HP / 5000 | 143 HP / 4600 |
| Max Torque | 280 Nm / 3950 | 320 Nm / 3300 | 420 Nm / 3900 | 490 Nm / 3900 | 280 Nm / 2200 |
| Dynamics (manufacturer) | |||||
| Max Speed | 227 km/h | 244 km/h | 250 km/h | 250 km/h | 206 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 8.6 s | 7.6 s | 6.6 s | 6.6 s | 11.4 s |
| Average fuel consumption | 7.8 l / 100 km | 8.9 l / 100 km | 8.9 l / 100 km | 10.2 l / 100 km | 6.2 l / 100 km |
Participation was not accepted. It seemed to me that for someone who wants to get a real "membership" at their disposal, all these thoughts about the cost of operation, breakdowns and engines are completely unnecessary. But it turns out that there is still a demand for information on these machines. There are those who are ready to buy such a car for themselves and start asking the right questions.
And the first car of this class, which we will consider in the “Used Cars” section, will be the legendary “seven” from BMW in the back of the E38, which is immortalized not in jokes, like the Mercedes W140, but in films and newsreels. Oddly enough, it was BMW, always standing apart in its class and often in the shadow of the eternal competitor from Stuttgart, that turned out to be the most in demand in the secondary market, when not hired drivers, but fans of these cars got behind the wheel.
You can talk for a long time about approaches to handling and comfort of the driver and passengers, but it was the commercially successful W140 that lost the race for sympathy with one goal. By the way, his successor, W220, took into account this mistake and tried to change. But about what happened with the Stuttgarters, in another article, and now - about the E38 in all its guises.
Technique
Talk about comfort and excellent driving performance"Bavaria" is a thankless task. Anyone who knows about all this firsthand will be indignant at the paucity of description. Anyone who is not in the know is tormented to read all this. This is a car with a capital "B", for short. If literally a little more, then the car is completely classic in design.
Steel body, completely traditional shapes and very stylish design. Three wheelbase options - standard, iL cars with an addition to the base length of 140 mm and an even longer L7, already stretched by all 390 mm, but because of this, the car looks different. The insert between the front and rear doors is clearly visible, while the usual elongated version looks much more harmonious - it just has a longer tailgate.
The drive is always rear. Suspension and steering are also not fraught with anything unusual - "McPherson" in front (yes, it is he, and not a two-lever, as it is written on most resources, just check the catalogs and see for yourself) and multi-link suspension with integral lever at the back. And no racks, a conventional steering gear with Servotronic amplifier.
Inside - a paradise for the driver and passengers, the whole groves of trees of valuable species and herds of cows go to decorate the cabin. Of course, already in the database it’s very “bohat”, and everything was possible to order - from separate rear seats with curtains and Nakamishi music to changers, a cell phone, navigation systems with a color display and a TV. For the first time, the BMW Assist control system and “safety curtains” appeared here, which serve to prevent head injury in the event of a side impact and coup.
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The trunk is considered small, but it is enough for a standard refrigerator and a subwoofer for non-standard music. By the way, the interior acoustics are very good, especially in versions with double glazing, which was offered as an option. In general, at the time of its introduction in 1994 and until the end of production in 2001, the car personified luxury and comfort, a little restrained by the brand's traditional driving ambitions.
Yes, in addition to Servotronic, there are many other electronic assistants. It was on the “seven” that a full-fledged stabilization system first appeared, and in the future, setting up the system on all Bavarian cars will inherit its character, when “by default” the electronics allow you to “be smart” and catch on only at serious slip angles. Adaptive dampers and a body leveling system were also on the options list. And, of course, the car received at its disposal the most advanced five-speed automatic transmission from ZF with electronic control, and later automatic transmission from GM. How does all this splendor work 15-20 years after the car left the assembly line? This is a very interesting question.
Breakdowns and problems in operation
Motors
Bavarian engines on the E38 are from that generation that cannot be called very problematic. The car was only slightly affected by the nikasil scandal on the M52 and M60, but in our conditions nikasil is the preferred material for coating the cylinder block, and motors usually break down not due to simple wear.
The main engines on the "seven" are a V8 with a volume of three to 4.4 liters and engines of the M60 and M62 series. I have repeatedly written about them and I will only note that these are one of the most successful passenger "eights" in principle. And the M60 is a little more reliable than the heir due to more. The series has also already been reviewed in reviews of earlier models and is similarly considered one of the most reliable.
The main problems of all engines under the hood of BMW are overheating and breakdowns of various sensors. Overheating is usually the result of clogged radiators, faulty viscous couplings, and generally inaccurate operation of a powerful motor. For the seventh series, the problem is more pronounced than for younger cars, because service limousines often idle for hours in winter and summer, waiting for their only passenger, and all the troubles “crawl out” earlier.
Unfortunately, the consequences are not always completely eliminated, and a large part of cars with aged V8 engines clearly bear traces of several overheatings with all their attendant troubles - stuck rings, swollen and unreliable cooling system pipes ... Typical problems for all motors are weak ignition modules and a limited service life of lambda sensors. Otherwise, you have both a chance to get an excellent engine with a range of three hundred thousand kilometers, and a completely “dead” one with piston and “knee” seizures, although it could only run one and a half hundred.
The 750 and 750iL featured a previously unreviewed M73 series V12 engine, which traces its lineage to the M70, which, in turn, is suspiciously similar in design to a pair of M30 series “sixes” connected together. Despite its gigantic dimensions and 12 cylinders, the engine is relatively simple in design, there are only 2 valves per cylinder and until 98 there were no newfangled trends in the form of high-temperature controlled thermostats and Vanos.
The more recent version of the M73N motor was equipped with bells and whistles and raised the operating temperature, but this did not greatly affect reliability - the resource is still unlimited, thanks to a small degree of forcing and high quality workmanship.
Diesel engines are relatively rare, and these are again old acquaintances in the face of the 2.5-liter M51 series engine and the very common M57 series turbodiesel. The first is frankly weak for a heavy car, and his character is not very fighting, but the more voluminous M57 must be admitted extremely successful motors for these machines. The only bad thing is that they relied on a far from ideal American “automatic” as a gearbox.
transmissions
There are no surprises here either: manual gearboxes, cardan shafts and rear gear very reliable. Even a self-locking differential easily endures the “forgetfulness” of a number of owners who have not changed the oil in it for years, since drifting on the “sevens” is extremely rare. BUT automatic boxes gears here are mainly from the very reliable ZF 5HP24 and 5HP19 series, which have been repeatedly.
These units were at the forefront of progress at one time and look good even now. True, they have problems almost like modern automatic transmissions - and the oil pollution associated with this, overheating of boxes during hard operation and a relatively short oil life. But most often the boxes fail due to the fault of the owners who are afraid to change the oil, and because of "generic" problems. So conditionally, these automatic transmissions can be considered almost eternal.
But the GM gearbox, which is rarely found on six-cylinder engines, does not please with reliability, and I already wrote why - the vane pump does not like high speed and dirty oil, and after pressure loss, the amount possible problems increases many times. But at the moment, these boxes have been mastered for repair, and their replacement with ZF has also been worked out.
Body
No steel or paint has been spared for the flagship sedan, and a solid part of the cars still look very good. The key to good body health is warm parking lots and regular visits to the car wash. The class is required. If corrosion damage occurs, it is primarily on the thresholds, doors and wheel arches. And also the attachment points of the rear subframe on powerful machines with top-end engines.
Mostly suffer specimens that have long passed into the use of private traders or have worked accompanied, with the inevitable rubbing, sandblasting and harsh operating conditions. The high price of most body parts at the low price of the cars themselves often makes the owners "cut", which primarily affects the condition of the plastic body parts and chrome elements.
A set of exterior plastics in excellent condition can cost more than half the price of an old car, and even with no corrosion and good paintwork, casting appearance to the original will make you spend. The cost of optics, mirrors, antennas and a variety of caps and hatches can also be disheartening. The prices are lower than for a new car, but only one and a half to two times, there is almost no non-original choice, the choice of “used” ones during analysis is also small, and the condition of the parts itself usually does not shine. A good kit, say, from England, you have to wait, and its price will also be far from sparing.
Salon and electrics
The interior and electrical equipment of the car, on the one hand, are executed at a very high level, and on the other hand, they are still the main suppliers of minor and not very problems. Richly equipped specimens have a huge number of different interior options, which will inevitably require repairs in the end, and not always a matter of price. Often, a replacement for a broken unit simply cannot be purchased in a reasonable time and not very reasonable money.
Fortunately, critical breakdowns here can only occur in the climate control unit, the dashboard and a pair of control units - the main unit and the on-board control system unit, which can still be purchased new for about fifty thousand rubles a pair. But a car with a bunch of non-working electronics is not at all like a dream car, and the price for it, accordingly, is falling, because bringing it to a “live” state will require both effort and money.
Electrical problems include very unpleasant troubles with the “smart” Servotronic steering system, with the ABS unit, which also carries out the functions of the dynamic stabilization system, the actual problems of engine compartment wiring of cars and a number of troubles that arise with engine sensors.
Chassis
The reliability of the suspensions on the "sevens" is, if not exemplary, then very good by the standards of the company. The front suspension, after a complete overhaul and careful operation, can go through one and a half hundred thousand, and the rear one can usually withstand 40-60 thousand, which can be considered a worthy result for a very heavy car with good handling.
However, during hard use, which was typical for official cars, the suspensions performed worse, requiring regular attention, in contrast to. The cost of components for repair is quite reasonable, and only a complete overhaul or replacement of the rear integral arm assembly after an accident or replacement of active suspension shock absorbers will require serious expenses. But instead of them, standard ones are most often installed - due to the extremely high cost of original spare parts.
The steering gear is unpretentious, but its repair is expensive - most often, when a backlash appears, it is replaced with a contract one. However, the total cost of steering maintenance is not cheap at all, if high-quality components are used. The control module sometimes fails: both the control unit itself and the gearbox valve block, in which the motor and force control valves can break down, can throw problems. Fortunately, now they have learned how to repair the module, restoration “according to the dealer’s technology”, i.e. with the replacement of the entire steering gear - extremely expensive.
As with all old BMW models, first of all, you need to try not to get into a criminal car - you should check the coincidence of all VIN numbers on the body and the compliance of the configuration “by VIN” and in fact. As well as the presence of traces of welding spars and other problems associated with alterations.
Secondly, just decide how many hundreds of thousands you want to spend on a car per year. Yes, hundreds, not tens. If one or two, then late copies with V8 engines are at your service, without any special “bells and whistles” and in good condition. If more, then you just need to take a car with necessary set options and not "killed".
If there is not much free money, but you still want to play the lottery, then look for a pre-styling car with 3-liter M52 or M60 engines or a restyled "American" with M62 3.5 - such versions have minimal taxes, and with expenses for everything else - how lucky.
But it is strongly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the knowledge base on the E38 on specialized resources before buying - this will allow you not only to get an idea of how much the repair will cost, but also that the car may already be “instructed”. And the list is huge, almost all nodes require attention. It is likely that this will save you from a rash purchase, and the dream will remain just a dream.
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In October 1993, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW introduced the flagship third-generation 7-Series sedan in the back of the E38. Despite the fact that the public liked the model, it only appeared on the conveyor in June 1994. The car was produced until 2001 and gained popularity among motorists around the world, including in Russia. In total, the Bavarian manufacturer produced 340,242 copies of the BMW E38.
Many believe that the "seven" in the back of the E38 is the last "correct" model of this series, because the next generation (E65 / E66) received a radically new design.
Just looking at the BMW 7-series sedan in the E38 body, it becomes clear that this is a real flagship. For all its solidity and solidity, the car looks sporty and smart. An underestimated hood, slightly “frowned” headlights, as well as branded “nostrils” of the radiator grille add aggressiveness to the look.
The profile of the third-generation BMW 7-Series is distinguished by a large glass area, an elongated hood and a long stern, as well as an almost flat roof that turns into a powerful C-pillar. The stern of the sedan is massive, and it is crowned with small and neat lanterns.
Now for the specific numbers. The length of the "seven" is 4985 mm (for the long-wheelbase version - 5125 mm), and the distance between the axles is 2930 mm (3070 mm). The width and height in both cases are unchanged - 1862 mm and 1425 mm, respectively. Depending on the modification, the curb weight of the car varies from 1905 to 2235 kg.
The interior of the BMW 7 Series in the body of the E38 is fully consistent with the status of the car - an attractive design, ergonomics thought out to the smallest detail, high-quality finishing materials. The dashboard is simple, but at the same time informative and functional. The center console houses the control units for the entertainment system and the dual-zone climate control unit.
The sedan has a spacious interior. The wide front seats have a fairly developed profile, a wide cushion and dense padding, and there is enough space for riders of almost any build.
The rear sofa of the “seven” with a standard wheelbase with its layout hints that it is designed for two people - two headrests and a high transmission tunnel testify to this. Long wheelbase vehicle provides truly royal accommodation rear passengers Here you can easily cross your legs.
Regardless of the modification, the BMW E38 flaunts a 500-liter luggage compartment. Its shape is not very convenient, but the loading height is small, which makes it easier to load heavy luggage.
Specifications. The third generation BMW 7-Series had four petrol and one diesel engines.
The petrol part includes units with 6, 8 and 12 cylinders. With a working volume of 2.8 to 5.4 liters, they produce from 193 to 326 horsepower and 280 to 490 Nm of peak torque. Each of the diesel engines is equipped with a turbocharging system, and with a volume of 2.5 to 3.9 liters, they generate 143-245 "horses" and 280-560 Nm of thrust. fit together power units with “mechanics” for five or six gears, or a 5-speed “automatic”, as well as a rear-wheel drive transmission.
Even with the most low power motor the executive sedan accelerates to hundreds in 12.2 seconds, and with the top one - in just 6.8 seconds. The maximum speed in this case varies from 202 to 250 km / h.
But the “seven” cannot be called the standard of fuel efficiency - a 143-horsepower diesel engine needs 9.5 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers, while a 326-horsepower gasoline unit- 13.6 liters of fuel (passport data).
The BMW 7 Series with the E38 body uses a fully independent suspension, represented by a two-lever layout in front and a four-link rear. Each of the wheels is equipped with disc brakes with a ventilation system.
Complete set and prices."Seven" of the third generation is still in demand for Russian market. Depending on the modification and level of equipment, prices for a BMW 7-series in a 38-body (according to data for 2014) start from 200,000 - 250,000 rubles, and for the most recent and "saturated" copies can reach 600,000 - 650,000 rubles . It is worth noting that even the basic equipment of the E38 includes power accessories, dual-zone air conditioner, multifunctional "steering wheel" and regular "music".