BMW 7 Series (E38) explained

BMW 7 Series (E38)
Assembly:Germany: Dingolfing
Production:April 1994 – July 2001
Designer:Boyke Boyer
Body Style:4-door sedan
Class:Full-size luxury car (F)
Layout:Rear-wheel drive
Length:SWB: 49851NaN1
LWB: 51241NaN1
Width:18621NaN1
Height:1425-
Weight:1710-
Wheelbase:SWB: 29301NaN1
LWB: 30701NaN1
Predecessor:BMW 7 Series (E32)
Successor:BMW 7 Series (E65)
Model Years:1995–2001

The BMW E38 is the third generation of the BMW 7 Series luxury cars and was produced from 1994 until 2001. The E38 replaced the E32 7 Series and was produced with petrol and turbo-diesel straight-six and V8 engines, along with a petrol V12 flagship model. Three wheelbase lengths were available - short (i), long (iL) and Limousine (L7).

The E38 was the first car available with curtain airbags. It was also the first European car to offer satellite navigation[1] and the first BMW to offer an in-built television. The E38 was the first 7 Series to be available with a diesel engine and the last to be available with a manual transmission.

In 2001, the E38 was replaced by the E65 7 Series.

Development

In early 1988, development began on the third generation of the 7 Series.[2] From 1988 to 1990 styling work was done initially under design director Claus Luthe[3] (through April 1990, taken over by Dr. Wolfgang Reitzle), when Boyke Boyer's concept design was chosen and further refined into production form.[4]

In February 1991, the final production design for the new 7 Series was approved by the board 36 months ahead of the scheduled start of production for 17 February 1994.[2] On 27 April 1993, German design patents were filed featuring a pre-production prototype as a design representation.[5] Patents were later filed on 27 October 1993 in the United States.[6]

Production

Production started on 23 July 1993 on pilot production models and US specification variants on 13 January 1994, with series production commencing in April 1994 for June 1994 domestic German launch with the 730i and 740i.[7] US-specification cars entered production in September 1994, for November 1994 launch. On 18 February 1994, the E38 BMW 7 Series was unveiled for the 1995 model year via a BMW press release. The 750i production began in November 1994, in advance of its January 1995 launch.[8] [9]

The production totals by model are: 728i- 38,000; 728iL- 7,000; 730i- 21,000; 730iL- 2,000; 735i- 21,000; 735iL- 5,000; 740i- 88,000; 740iL- 81,000; 750i- 8,000; 750iL- 15,000; 725tds- 9,000; 730d- 12,000, 740d- 3,000 and less than 500 each for the 740iL P, 750iL P, 750iL S and L7 models.[10]

A total of 340,242 cars were produced.[11] [12] [13] [14] The last E38 rolled off BMW's assembly line on 27 July 2001[15] to make way for the replacement E65 7 Series.

Engines

Petrol engines

Model Years Engine Power Torque
728i,
728iL 		1995–1998
1998–2001
730i,
730iL 		1994–1996
735i,
735iL 		1996–1998
1998–2001 3.5 L M62TÜB35
V8
740i,
740iL 		1994–1996
1996–1998
1998–2001
750i,
750iL 		1995–1998
1998–2001

Diesel engines

Model Years Engine-
turbo		Power Torque
725tds 1995–2001
730d 1998–2001
740d 1999–2001

Transmissions

A 5-speed ZF 5HP automatic transmission was available on all models.[16] In many markets, a 5-speed manual transmission was available for the 725tds, 728i,[17] 730i,[18] and 735i,[19] while a 6-speed manual was on offer for the 740i.[20]

Equipment

Safety features include ASC+T traction control, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), headlight washers and auto-leveling low beam xenon HID headlamps. Side tubular airbags (called "Head Protection System") were fitted as standard equipment.[21] [22] "Active Comfort Seats" were introduced in 1998, to improve comfort and reduce fatigue for the driver and front passenger.[23] This system uses two fluid-filled bladders which alternate in height.[24]

Other equipment includes Electronic Damper Control (called EDC III), Park Distance Control (PDC), auto-dimming & power folding mirrors, power moonroof, power rear sunblind, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone or tri-zone climate control, electric driver's seat adjustment and electric steering wheel adjustment.

Double glazed windows were available (called "dual pane glass"). Break resistant laminated "security glass" was also available, which is known to delaminate. The delamination occurred with the Protection S357A option only, not with normal S352A dual pane windows.[25] [26] [27] Bullet-resistant glass was used for the Protection model, with even thicker glass used for the Security model.[25]

The Sport Package included a revised steering wheel, suspension, exterior trim, and interior wood trim.[28] Some sports models also included a shorter differential ratio and higher stall speed for the torque converter.[29] This allowed for a 0–97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time of 5.9 seconds.

In-car electronics

The E38 was one of the first European cars to be available with satellite navigation,[30] a system called CARIN jointly developed by BMW and Philips.[31]

The in-car entertainment (radio, audio system, satellite navigation, television and communications systems) are part of an automotive communication system called I-bus.[32]

A multi-function steering wheel included controls for the audio, phone, cruise control and air recirculation.[33] [34]

Special models

L7

From 1997 to 2001, BMW marketed an extended wheelbase limousine model called the L7.[35] [36] The wheelbase was extended by 2501NaN1 over the "iL" models, resulting in an overall length of 5.371NaN1.[37] Features included electrically adjustable rear seats, rear footrests, fold down rear trays, a fridge, rear television screen, video player and a fax machine.[37] [38]

Based on the 750iL with a 12-cylinder engine, the L7 has an electronically limited top speed of 2500NaN0.[39] The L7 was only available in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Europe, and 899 examples were built.[10] The 2000-2001 models had an optional "privacy window" glass partition to separate the driver from the rear passengers.[40]

Protection line

The armoured "Protection Line" vehicles were built from 2000 to 2001 and were based on the 740iL and 750iL models.[41] Security features include body armor, bullet-resistant glass, and run-flat tyres.[42] [43] An intercom system is provided to communicate with people outside the vehicle while the windows and doors are shut.[44]

Security line

A High-Security version with protection up to B6/7[45] was also available in Europe,[46] known internally as the 750iL S. The additional security measures brought an additional weight of 9500NaN0 compared to the normal 750iL.[47] Features include explosive cord around the windshield allowing removal of the windshield facilitating escape and hydraulically actuated windows. A gas sensor can detect irritants like CS gas and respond by turning the blower motor off, closing fresh air flaps and all windows. A fire suppression system is triggered by either a button or the detection of extreme temperatures in the engine bay or the vicinity of the fuel tank.[48] A breathing air system is also available which delivers air from a cylinder in the trunk, up to three firearms cases designed to fit a Heckler & Koch MP5K were also optionally available as well as spherical gunports in the doors.[49]

750hL

On 11 May 2000, BMW presented a fleet of fifteen 750hL models in Berlin.[50] Its twelve-cylinder hydrogen combustion engine can be operated on both hydrogen and petrol. In operation on hydrogen, it delivers 1500NaN0, accelerating from 0 to 1000NaN0 in 9.6 seconds and slowing the car to attain a top speed of 2260NaN0.[51]

The production of the hydrogen engine was integrated into the regular engine production at the Dingolfing plant. It differs from the conventional petrol engine essentially only in regards to the intake tract with additional injection valves for hydrogen.[52] The hydrogen is stored cryogenically at a temperature of minus 253 degrees Celsius in a double-walled steel tank behind the rear seat back. The hydrogen tank holds 140 litres and allows an additional range of 3500NaN0.[51] In addition, the 750hL has a fuel cell rated at 50NaN0 at 42 volts. This is not used as a drive unit, but as an auxiliary power unit (APU) for power supply to the electrical system.[53]

During the Expo 2000 in Hanover, the vehicles were used as shuttles. From February to November 2001 the vehicles were part of the "CleanEnergy WorldTour 2001" in the cities of Dubai, Brussels, Milan, Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Berlin. By November 2001 the 750hL had achieved a mileage of over 150,000 km.[54] On the Nürburgring the 750hL recorded a time of 9 minutes and 53 seconds while powered by hydrogen.[55]

Alpina B12

The Alpina B12 5.7 and Alpina B12 6.0 models were based on the BMW 750i and 750iL respectively.[56]

Model year changes

1995

1996

1997

1998 facelift

The E38 facelift (also known as Life-Cycle Impulse) models were introduced in the 1999 model year (produced from September 1998). The major changes are:

1999

2000

2001

In popular culture

In the 1997 James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, the sixteen E38 cars used during production were modified so they could be driven from the backseat, making it appear that Bond actor Pierce Brosnan was controlling the car using his mobile phone. The car type is actually a BMW 740iL but they were re-badged as the 750iL.[76] One survives today and can be seen at the exhibition “TOP SECRET” at Museum Industriekultur, Nuremberg.

Besides the E38 saloons, BMW also supplied a $14,000 R1200C motorcycle. BMW received the rights to use movie clips from the film in its multimillion-dollar campaign, and during the 1997 holiday season they offered a special promotion that included the R1200C with the purchase of the 750iL.[77]

Rapper Tupac Shakur and Death Row Records CEO Suge Knight were gunned down in a black 1996 750iL. Shakur succumbed to his injuries but the car itself later was bid at auction in Las Vegas, Nevada for $1,750,000.[78]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: 20 Jahre Navigation: Was ist aus ihnen geworden?. 20 years of navigation: How has it changed? . de . auto-motor-und-sport.de/. 15 July 2014. Dirk . Gulde . 4 May 2017.
  2. Web site: BMW 7 Series - A Look Back. www.topspeed.com. 8 May 2015. 7 April 2017.
  3. Web site: BMW car designers. www.bmwism.com. 7 April 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20121018184007/http://www.bmwism.com/bmws_designers.htm. 2012-10-18. dead.
  4. Web site: BMW-Flaggschiff mit V8 für kleines Geld. Auto, Motor und Sport. 7 May 2015. de . 12 April 2017.
  5. Web site: Registerauskunft zum Design Designnummer: M9303460-0001. Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt. 12 April 2017.
  6. US. D0372687. Automobile Exterior Body. Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft.
  7. Web site: BMW Classic - Recherche-Client .
  8. Book: Pisano. Gary. BMW: The 7-Series Project (A). 1992. Harvard Business School.. 14 November 2016.
  9. Web site: E38 Production Figures by Model – Summary . 11 July 2015 .
  10. Web site: E38 Production Figures by Model. www.e38registry.com. 11 July 2015 . 15 November 2016.
  11. Web site: BMW Classic - Recherche-Client .
  12. Book: Kittler, Eberhard . Deutsche Autos seit 1990, Band 5. 1.. 2001 . Motorbuch Verlag . Stuttgart . 3-613-02128-5.
  13. Auto Katalog, 2003 edition, p. 312. Note: Figures include early E65 production.
  14. Web site: E38 Production Figures by Model. www.e38registry.com. 11 July 2015 . 15 November 2016.
  15. Book: Lewin. Tony. The Complete Book of BMW. 2004. Motorbooks. 0760319510. 209. 15 November 2016.
  16. Web site: ZF North America Application Chart (automatic). www.zf-group.com. https://web.archive.org/web/20030912234148/http://www.zf-group.com/pdf/AppChartpasscartrans.pdf . 12 September 2003 . dead.
  17. Book: The BMW 7 Series. May 1999. BMW AG. 46. 15 November 2016.
  18. Web site: BMW 730i (E38). BMW Group Archive. BMW AG. 16 November 2016.
  19. Web site: BMW 735i (E38). BMW Group Archive. BMW AG. 16 November 2016.
  20. Web site: BMW 740i (E38). BMW Group Archive. BMW AG. 16 November 2016.
  21. Web site: Standard and Optional Equipment . BMW NA. 14 November 2016. https://web.archive.org/web/20010614020948/http://www.bmwusa.com/7series/740i/equipment/equipment_b.htm. 2001-06-14 . dead.
  22. Web site: BMW Head Protection System Sets New Standard in Side-Impact Protection in Latest IIHS Crash Test. www.theautochannel.com. 13 April 2017.
  23. Web site: Active Comfort Seat feature was an option in addition of the regular seats. www.bimmerboard.com. 13 April 2017.
  24. Web site: Active Comfort Seat retrofit to the Contour Seat. www.bimmerboard.com. 13 April 2017.
  25. Web site: Security Glass Question. www.bimmerforums.com. 13 April 2017.
  26. Web site: 750il with bullet proof glass. www.bimmerfest.com. 13 April 2017.
  27. Web site: Break resistant glass. Bimmerfest.com. 17 May 2018. en.
  28. Web site: 01 740iL - Sport package question. www.bimmerfest.com. 13 April 2017.
  29. Web site: 2000 BMW 740i Sport – Quick Test. www.motortrend.com. June 1999 . 21 April 2017.
  30. Book: The New BMW 7 Series. April 1994. BMW AG.. 52. 4 May 2017.
  31. Web site: Lotse an Bord. www.focus.de. de. 4 May 2017.
  32. Web site: BMW Bus System . 2010-11-06.
  33. Book: Larimer. Fred. BMW Buyer's Guide. MotorBooks International. 9781610608268. 194.
  34. Web site: 7' E38 728i Diagram Selection. www.realoem.com. 30 April 2017.
  35. Web site: BMW L7 (E38). BMW Group Archiv. BMW AG. 15 November 2016.
  36. Book: BMW L7 Brochure. 2000. BMW AG. 14 November 2016.
  37. Web site: BMW L7 (E38). www.autoevolution.com. 14 April 2017.
  38. Web site: 1997 BMW L7. www.germancarsforsaleblog.com. 14 April 2017.
  39. Web site: 1998 BMW L7 E38. www.automobile-catalog.com. 14 April 2017.
  40. Web site: Category Archives - L7. www.e38registry.org. 14 April 2017.
  41. Web site: For Sale: Bullet-Proof 2000 BMW 750iL. www.thetruthaboutcars.com. 4 January 2012. 21 April 2017.
  42. Web site: BMW 740iL Protection. www.caranddriver.com. August 2000. 21 April 2017.
  43. Web site: For the curious, 750iL vs. 750iL Protection. www.bimmerboard.com. 21 April 2017.
  44. Web site: BMW Protection Line- Supplementary Owner's Handbook. www.e38.org. 21 April 2017.
  45. Web site: BMW 750iL High Security . bmw-ids.com . 22 April 2017 . dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20010123225300/http://www.bmw-ids.com/content_limousine3.html . 2001-01-23 .
  46. Book: The BMW 7 Series. May 1999. BMW AG. 13. 15 November 2016.
  47. Book: The BMW 7 Series. May 1999. BMW AG. 48. 15 November 2016.
  48. Web site: E38 750iLS Fire extinguishing system tubing. RealOEM.com. 21 April 2017.
  49. Book: Security Line. Supplementary Owner's Manual.. February 2001. BMW AG. 21 April 2017.
  50. Web site: CleanEnergy WorldTour 2001: Finale in Berlin . 2001-11-08 . 7 May 2017.
  51. News: BMW 750hL: Nah am Wasser gebaut. Der Spiegel. 12 May 2000. 7 May 2017. Stirn. Alexander.
  52. Web site: BMW Introduces World's First Production-Based Hydrogen Powered Car. press.bmwgroup.com. 7 May 2017.
  53. Book: Opening Up a New Era of Mobility. BMW Hydrogen 7.. BMW AG. 72. 7 May 2017.
  54. Book: Annual Report 2001. BMW AG. 166. 7 May 2017.
  55. Web site: Emission Impossible. press.bmwgroup.com. 7 May 2017.
  56. Web site: ALPINA Meilensteine. ALPINA Burkard Bovensiepen GmbH + Co. KG. 2016-04-02. de.
  57. Web site: Koala Motorsport - tech-home . 2010-11-06 . https://web.archive.org/web/20070617084713/http://www.koalamotorsport.com/article-m60v8.asp . 2007-06-17.
  58. Web site: Case Overview, Standards for Low-sulfur Gasoline. Penn State University. 15 November 2016.
  59. Web site: Final Drive Ratio E38. BMW Workshop Manuals. BMW AG. 15 November 2016.
  60. Book: AUTOLIV INC. ANNUAL REPORT 1999. 14. 8 May 2017.
  61. Web site: Inflatable Tubular Structure (ITS) . 2015-01-01 . dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20150109083508/http://www.zodiacautomotive.com/products/side-impact-rollover-protection/inflatable-tubular-structure-its/ . 2015-01-09 .
  62. BMW Head Protection System Sets New Standard in Side-Impact Protection in Latest IIHS Crash Test . BMW of North America . Theautochannel.com . 30 October 1997 . 16 March 2014.
  63. Web site: Six Fascinating Facts about BMW 740i. www.carparts.com. 6 May 2017.
  64. Web site: James Bond's 1997 BMW 750iL. www.bimmerforums.com. 6 May 2017.
  65. 30 years BMW diesel engines, BMW 740d, V8 diesel engine (1998) . BMW Group Press Club of South Africa . 17 July 2013 . 5 October 2015.
  66. Web site: Timm's BMW E38 buying guide. www.meeknet.co.uk. 10 May 2017.
  67. Web site: Edgar. Julian. Goodbye 12 volts... hello 42 volts!. Autospeed. 2 January 2012. 5 October 1999. The current model BMW 750iL has a maximum electrical load of a staggering 428 amps (5.9 kW)! In this car, over half of the maximum power load is from the short-term electrical heating of the catalytic converters, with the heating used so that they come up to operating temp quickly. https://web.archive.org/web/20120528225424/http://autospeed.com/cms/title_Goodbye-12-volts-hello-42-volts/A_0319/article.html. 28 May 2012. dead.
  68. Web site: Milestones . 16 December 2016 . dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20150630081940/http://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/alpina-world/milestones/ . 30 June 2015 . dmy .
  69. Web site: Wide screen on-board monitor. www.e38.org. 13 May 2017.
  70. Web site: 7' E38 750i On-board monitor, wide screen. www.realoem.com. 13 May 2017.
  71. Web site: Information on the History of Older BMW Navigation Systems. www.bimmernav.com. 13 May 2017.
  72. Web site: 7' E38 750i CD navigation street map. www.realoem.com. 13 May 2017.
  73. Book: Fahrwerkhandbuch. 25 September 2013. Springer-Verlag. 9783658019921. 639. 13 May 2017.
  74. Web site: E38 option costs. www.meeknet.co.uk. 12 May 2017.
  75. Web site: Year 2000 E38 4.0iL pdc sensors and cruise control. www.bimmerforums.co.uk. 12 May 2017.
  76. Web site: List of All James Bond Cars : Part 3.
  77. Web site: BOND OF GOLD | Tomorrow Never Dies | Movie News | Movies | Entertainment Weekly . Ew.com . 1997-11-28 . 2009-07-25.
  78. Web site: 1996 BMW 7-Series for sale: Tupac Shakur sedan.

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