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Used 1998 BMW 7 Series Consumer Reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
87 reviews

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Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

Classy, Stylish, Head Turner.....Still

Robert W. Eiser, 11/10/2015
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
21 of 21 people found this review helpful

First they are inexpensive to purchase. I own a 1998 740l, was skeptical at first, 130K miles on her but in pristine condition other than needing new shoes. Hands down the best car I've ever owned or driven long distance in. Smooth ride, adjustable comfortable seating, cold a/c, strong and still turns heads after almost 18 years. Original paint still looks great as does the leather interior. Doors are heavy, it's a touring car, weighing in at some 4200 lbs. Keep on top of her maintenance as you would any other machine and she'll treat you right. My problem is with parking lots and people bumping into her front and rear fenders. These are impact trip guards that are easily replaced. Forget the BMW dealer on parts, check out eBay and you'll find what you need way cheaper. Find a local mechanic who understands BMW's and you'll save a ton of money plus have a mechanic that knows your car. The digital display lose pixels but the instrument panel is perfect. For the price they are a steal and a piece of BMW history. Mine is my daily driver. Window regulators could be constructed stronger, plan on replacing these every few years, again eBay is the place to buy them. Like everything else, pick a good one.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

What A Ride!

eurorider1, 12/03/2012
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
19 of 20 people found this review helpful

Bought it used 6 years ago with 100.000 miles and have driven coast to coast and beyond. Never has broken down and always ready and willing to hit the highway as fast and as long as I dare. It will cruise all day at 100 mph and you arrive safe and fit. And it gets LOOKS! Rode in a newer 750LI to NY. I didnt like it as well as the ol E38. Best bang for the money and it you take care of her she will never let you down....

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Yes, it is the ultimate driving machine!

gelly70, 09/10/2010
updated 01/29/2014
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

I know; I haven’t had this awesome car for long (since June 2010). However, I drove it from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA in a super comfortable 14 hrs (939 mi) ride. I got 24 mpg. Very quiet & smooth ride, comfortable driving position, very nice sound system, impressive braking, powerful engine; bottom line: One GREAT vehicle for what I paid for! I just have brace for the shock, when I take it to BMW dealership to get an additional key and new brake lining (pads) replacement. I am the second owner of this very well care for, Protection Package 750IL baby. Now I understand why its called “The Ultimate Driving Machine”

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Carrier shot

740iFan, 05/10/2009
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
10 of 10 people found this review helpful

Arguably the most comfortable performance sedan ever built. Nice clean lines. Buy it right but set several thousand aside for initial remediation. I replaced water pump, window motor, control arm bushings, right cat, headlight lenses, and tires in the first year. Had leather refinished to like-new last year. You can get good quality non-BMW aftermarket parts drop shipped to your independent mechanic and save big $$$$. All-in I probably put 4K into the car since purchase bringing total cost to less than 11K. I get 22 mpg highway driving aggressively, 24 otherwise.

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5 out of 5 stars

Amazing reliable first car

e2ek1eles212, 02/27/2012
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
14 of 15 people found this review helpful

Yes, i purchased a 1998 for my first car and it wasnt a mistake. ive had dreams of buying one for my first car since i was 14 and i finally found one. it had 117,000 miles when i bought it and i havent had any serious problems. Everyone told me it was a bad idea to get a car like this because it was so impractical. They said it was bad on gas and parts would be so expensive but so far ive had to replace a water pump and a few other repairs of that sort and i could comfortable affford them on my minimum wage salary. The gas isnt bad in this car at all. Its actually quite good for a 2+ ton v8. I love this car and i hope it will last for a very very long time.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

You have truly arrived

JR, 02/07/2008
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Once you've owned a 7, You really have truly arrived. Realistically you're driving a very sophisticated luxury sedan that is supposed to be maintained to spec. BMW did not market this car to those who could not afford the maintenance costs. I find that the most reliable examples of any BMW I've looked at or talked to people about seem to be the ones that have been maintained correctly, this doesn't mean just oil changes, I'm talking following the full maintenance schedule. With the proper care and love these cars will treat you well. It demands respect when you pull up to a gathering and defiantly has a lot of presence. Do not let the E38's minor issues deter you from owning one.

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5 out of 5 stars

18 years and counting "simply the best"!

Tim, 08/31/2015
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
9 of 10 people found this review helpful

Purchased the car in 1998 in NJ with 69 actual miles. She now has 190,000 and is in Fl and runs better than when I first bought. The warm weather has only made it better. The car has aged graceful and remains an eye catcher. I've had several other cars specifically BMW's but this E 38 is truly amazing the best vehicle ever, simply the best!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

2nd 750iL

motts71, 09/02/2014
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
8 of 9 people found this review helpful

This is my second 750iL. The first one had a wiring harness that disintegrated and would not pass emission because of the harness not connecting the oBD-II socket. This car has been every bit as enjoyable as the first one. The only non maintenance item that I have had to replace are the window regulators. Other than that, just normal oil and filter changes. I have over 150,000 miles and it runs as strong as ever. 17mpg in town and 25mpg on the highway at 80mph. An awesome handling and comfortable car. It handles better than my S-class Mercedes.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

1998 740iL

740ilDuke, 01/09/2007
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I'm in college, purchased my car on eBay with 35k miles on it. I did my research and have had the expected issues - radiator, window regulator, cupholder, grills. I have used enthusiast message boards to find, fix, and do preventive maintenance. I now have 71K miles on it and everything works as it should. I love driving the car, it handles great and is wonderful for long road trips. I live on a tight budget and have been savvy enough to keep this car in order, which leads me to believe that anyone can. I think I'll see just how far this one will go. If you buy an older car, research it and spend some money doing preventative work like transmission flushes, etc. Mainly enjoy driving.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Pricey but worth it

Jimbob, 03/21/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I am a car nut! I wanted performance and I got it. The 750IL has more than enough juice for any driver right off the line. As I am finding out there are plenty of ways to improve both the performance and the mileage. It does have some quirks. There is a sensor on everything in the car and sometimes they give out reading that are hard to understand. That is what the gear heads at the dealership are for. All in All there are few automobiles that can top the luxury items or the high performance of this incredible machine.

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5 out of 5 stars

WHAT A CAR !!!!

jamezey, 09/11/2012
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

This car is an amazing performer. It outshines many of the newer BMW'S . Mine has 204000 miles on it . Ive replaced the water pump , changed the oil , and thats about it !! WHO CARES ABOUT THE CUP HOLDER! LOL. I love my 7. just about the funest car ive ever driven. Big , luxurious, sexy body lines,responsive v-8. I get an average 22-23 on the highway, 21 all day in the city. nothing comes close to the beuty of this car. It is silver with grey leather. Smoked lenses complete this beuty. I wouldnt trade her . Shes a keeper . I'll probably drive her till' the wheels fall off. :) Scoop one of these up . . .if you can find a decent one .

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5 out of 5 stars

The Ultimate "7" driving machine

Alex, 12/18/2005
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

My last car was a 1995 Jaguar XJ6, it was wonderful, however trunk space was an issue. Having owned 6 BMW's in the past I bought a 1998 740il on eBay. Drove the car to California from Texas, and on the way achieved between 25-29 mpg, Incredible! Both cats replaced for Calif Smog laws $2400 yikes! The car is an absolute pleasure to own, and drive. In essence its a "Sports car Limo". Fast, luxurious, smooth, powerful, addictive are just a few superlatives to descibe the car. Take care of your 740, don't abuse it, get your maintenance done when required and it will give you immense pleasure. As a side note, I later found out, my 740il was previously owned by Troy Aikman of the Dallas Cowboys.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A Dream To Drive

jbreeves, 03/15/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Finest automobile I've ever driven. Hard pressed to find anything for BMW to improve on. Okay, 600 hp would be nice!

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3 out of 5 stars

Wonderful if not your only car

Donovan Gibson, 07/27/2016
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

The car is wonderful. Comfortable, rides nice, engine, transmission and most components function and last very well. Purchase price is very reasonable, however, maintenance cost and upkeep are terrible, the car is fairly difficult to work on without the right knowledge. In my experience I have to constantly make sure everything is good, I've replaced many parts that are not cheap. I've mainly had most of my problems with the cooling system: blown radiator here, broken thermostat here, shot fan clutch here, etc. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone, just not as a daily driver or only car. It is comfortable, rides and drives nicely, but the maintenance cost and maintenance itself is just too much for a daily driver. Do not buy this car unless you are ready for the headache it may cause you.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4.38 out of 5 stars

A nice experience with my 740i

the MB, 08/29/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought this car certified-pre-owned with 36k miles on it. It is a blast to drive and I get a lot of compliments on its styling from clients. I appreciate the fact that it can hold three car seats across in the rear. It has had two repairs in 12 months; new ventilation fan motor, new fuel injection o-rings. This would have totaled about $1,000 without the warranty. While this kind of thing seems typical, and is certainly not cheap, a used 740 has a great overall value proposition.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

The Ultimate DRIVING Machine, YES!

Automaniac, 11/09/2006
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Already the happy owner of bulletproof-reliable Accord coupe 5-sp 1990 (still drive it daily!), 44 mpg Civic hatch, wanted to buy large luxo car w. great styling/performance. If DRIVING PLEASURE is a top priority, BMW 7 = the ONLY option. Got a great price due to the high gas prices at the time Bought it Oct 05, $10.5 k after the owner fixed and detailed the car. It gets 24+ MPG long highway high speed trips, 13-15 spirited city. What a bargain! And $10.5k is less than the 1st yr depreciation if you buy the fat, ugly new 7! I'd drive this car forever!

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Run don't walk from this car

Yikes, 04/12/2004
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

Door handle broke off in my hand. HVAC motors made squeaking noises. Power steering pump and hoses failed. AC clutch failed. Front suspension shimmy - bushings failed. O2 sensors, thermostat, idle control problems. Front chrome(plastic) grills cracked, fell out. Main drive belt needed replacing after only 20k miles. Now here are the problems still to come that are COMMON among other 740 owners: Radiator (plastic!!) hose neck will fail without warning and strand you. Catalytic convertors will fail. Transmission will fail at 60k. Oil pump bolts may be loose and thrown up into engine.

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4 out of 5 stars

Walk Don't Run

lsudad, 10/21/2004
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

I love to drive this car. Reliability is not good however. Radiator neck (plastic!!!)broke off at 1 am 200 miles from home. Both catalytic converters failed. Eats tires due to bushings wearing out like plastic on front end. Cup holders are poorly designed, break often and are in the way of AC controls. Fuse problem left me stranded at night also. Only ORR BMW service brings me back to another BMW

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4 out of 5 stars

too many problems

johnfra, 01/28/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is an absolutely incredible driving car, nothing can touch the BMW driving experience. However, as exceptional as this car is in driving and performance it's equally disappointing in it's reliability. My car has been in the shop for so many issues I can't recall them all. The majority of the problems were fixed under warranty but I had to have the radiator replaced,new suspension components, a complete new ignition system ( this one was especially fun since the car would not shut off with the key completely removed from the ignition,)along with just nagging problems.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best Car You Can Own

Scott, 01/04/2010
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I've had this car almost 5 years. I've replaced a window motor, fixed the power seat and replaced the fan. The total cost of repairs has been half that of my Chevy van, that is 2 years newer and has 80,000 less miles on it. This car is a pleasure to drive. It's comfortable and powerful. I usually get above 24 MPG on the freeway, and that's doing 80 MPH. I almost always choose it over my other cars (Boxster, 330ci and Van) due to the excellent sound system and handling. I've looked at the newer body style and I don't like it as much. Also the iDrive is a pain to use. I now have 180,000 miles on the car and I'm keeping it.

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4 out of 5 stars

Don't keep it Past Warranty Period

keywestmike, 11/20/2006
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This car was originally owned by Dave Thomas of Wendy's fame, he turned it in in March 2000 I bought it in May. Smoothest most fun car to drive ever. However, you must no keep it beyond BMW's Certified Warranty four years from purchase or 100,000 miles. I have 87500 miles on it now and the maintenance has been $8000.00. Apparently these cars are designed for heavy mileage but will start falling apart at age eight.

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3 out of 5 stars

BMW 750 CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG

DADIO, 05/26/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

PURCHASED ONE YEAR OLD. "ENGINE LIGHT" CAME ON EVERY 2000 MILES. TEMPERMENTAL POLLUTION CONTROLS ON THIS V12. WINDOW MOTORS ALL FAILED. HEADLAMP WASHER FAILED. ELECTRIC HEAD REST FAILED. CIG LIGHTER MOUNT FAILED. DRIVER SEAT MEMORY FAILED.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best car I ever owned

Andrew, 09/14/2005
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

After seeing this car I loved it, after driving it, I was obsessed with it, after owning it, I will always have a BMW. I thought about trading it for a Mercedes when my lease was up, but there were none comparable so I bought it... even the dealers that wanted to sell me a car knew that my car was better. I honestly believe that it is the Ultimate Driving Machine.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Looks nice, completey unreliable!

Michael S., 06/06/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I leased a used, 1998 BMW740I. I felt confident that I would be protected by the manufacturer's warranty. However I later learned that the warranties are tiered and started expiring months after I signed the lease. The car only had 19K miles, and I've only put 12K on it. I am turning it in early becuase it has so many mechanical problems, mostly electircal, but it has also has overheated three times, leaving me stranded. I can't afford to miss any more work. This car is going to ruin my career. I want my Toyota back!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great ride, but expensive

TAT, 05/24/2006
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought my 750iL five years ago on eBay. First I test drove the 740 at delaer but it lacked power and acceleration. Thought the standard features like 12-cylinder engine, GPS and double thick glass made it a good choice. I love this car's performance! Sound system is the best I've ever owned. I commute 100 miles a day on the highway at 80 mph and it feels like I'm taking a race horse out for daily exercise. Have put 70K miles on the car since owning it and plan on driving past 200K. My only reservation is that it has cost me dearly to maintain at the dealer. Too many things needed fixing to detail here but all told I probably have put at least an additional $10K into maintainence.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Second best way for long distance

bugatti46, 06/06/2006
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have owned over 20 European cars and this is without a shadow of a doubt, the Best driving, most powerfull ball of fun I have ever driven. Elegant and sporty. The only thing I would do different would be to buy the "S" version next time... I will buy another. I have put over 150k on this one and things may start to wear out.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent Car

Alex, 04/23/2005
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car year ago. It very well made car and also it's the best car I ever drove (out of 100+ cars). Performance is excellent, style, comfort and reliability. This car has "bullet proof" engine. I'm seeing people are complaining about cup holders - honestly that is the last thing I would think of. BMW 740 is the top of the line luxury sedan rather than comfy couch with convinient cup- holder. People who looking a cars as an expensive appliance should go for Toyota - Lexus, Honda... BMW is more for drive enthusiasts.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

The Ultimate Disaster Machine!

Lucian, 01/30/2006
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Looks can be deceiving! Let's see, purchased car at 58k, coolant sensor broke at 59K, tire alignmnet at 60K, fuel pump 61K, cat converter at 63K, sealant around windows at 63K all that in one yr. That yr i only put on the car 8k miles in hot weather! It has been nighmare after nightmare. Thanks BMW i hope ur happy in Stuttgart. Hire new engineers? That would be a good start.

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4 out of 5 stars

With every great car comes great responsibility...

William Arneson, 09/27/2018
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Very expensive to maintain. After 100K miles, everything needs to be replaced: catalytic converters; O2 sensors, etc. AND... all are expensive. Cats are $4000 from BMW ($3200 for parts and $800 for labor); O2 sensors are >$100 each X 4. Even spark plugs, especially since there are 16 of them, are expensive. I had a scanner tool that connected to the 30 pin jack (under the hood) that allowed me to read and clear a lot of the settings; however, in order to CHANGE anything it required a visit to my dealer... at $120/hour. Through 6 years of ownership I spent $2500 for maintenance, which would have been $8500 through BMW ( I did most of the work myself). HOWEVER... the ride was great. Comfort was outstanding. Fuel mileage was a solid 25 MPG, with the fully loaded car going from Omaha to Phoenix with A/C running non-stop. Would EASILY go 128 MPH (limited by mfg) and would have gone faster if not for the speed limiter. Overall? A great 10 year old car for under $10,000; and, even considering the $2500 I spent on maintenance... it was well worth it. However, if I had to take it to the dealership for service? Not so much.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

BMW 750iL GREAT MACHINE!

Danie Erasmus, 03/14/2008
1998 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought this vehicle four months ago and it is in a very good condition with 128,000 km on the clock. Only modification seems to be a performance exhaust system. The 250km/h top speed governer has certainly been disabled, and the car might have an added performance chip. Reason I am saying this - I recently took on a Porsche 911 Carrera on the highway, and the Porsche lost. The owner told me later that he was doing 280km/h at top end, so the Beemer must have been doing 300km/h plus - it is difficult to say exactly as the speedo is marked to 260km only. The car is very fast and a mighty performer, I rate it in the top echelons of motoring society, and I got it at a fraction of the price.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Don't buy a BMW over Lexus or others

Big Money Waster, 07/08/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

Since the purchase I have been plagued with mechanical issues that just shouldn't happen in a flagship vehicle like this. Here's the list: - Door handle broke off in my hand. - AC system noises took 4 trips to eliminate (most components replaced) - Front suspension vibration took 3 visits to resolve (bushings worn out after only 22k miles!!) - Battery replacement (dealer wanted $250) - Engine gaskets leaking (not heads) - Power steering hose leaking (replaced) - Stereo is terrible - Loud AC noise from engine compartment - Check engine light comes on for no known reason I'm selling this overpriced hunk of metal and going back to Lexus or Mercedes.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive but expensive to maintain

Dillon Lim, 08/04/2005
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

It's a blast to drive this car. But reliability is a big issue. Common problems are radiator and reserviour, water pump, window regulators, O2 sensors, fading pixel displays. Great car if you can afford the maintenance.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

Beware

Bibel, 11/06/2004
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

Back at dealership 8 times over 7 years. Currently there (4-th week). Bad car .Bad dealer.

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1 out of 5 stars

Poor engineering

Howard, 11/09/2020
updated 05/12/2023
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 5 people found this review helpful

Components that are reliable on other brands fail regularly on BMW 7 UPDATE: Has had an agreegious history of serious failures due to poor design engineering. Mulitple cooling system explosions spraying superheated steam all over the public roadways, multiple oil leaks emanating from valve cover, timing chain, bottom pan, and other gasket design deficencies. Plastic throttle body fracture failures, intake manifold gasket failure and a plethora of interior, exterior, electronic parts failures. A brand to be avoided!

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1.88 out of 5 stars

The most unreliable car I've ever had

Just say no to BMW, 06/13/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
1 of 6 people found this review helpful

This is the most unreliable car I've ever had. Too many problems to mentions. The biggest mistake!

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5 out of 5 stars

'98 Bimmer

Zebra, 07/05/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the finest luxury/performance sedan in the world for the money. Where else could you cruise in total luxury at 90mph & get 24 mpg????!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My new used car is great

NewUsed BMW, 09/11/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was lucky to leave the lot with this car after shopping for an E-Class or 5 series, my bank showed me the value of the 7 series by not financing the smaller cars to my liking. Next thing I know, I am driving the Ultimate Driving Machine flagship car. Just lucky, I guess. Everyone interested in used cars, should check the loan values and learn it is easier to get the flagship BMW than to settle for something less. E-Class is less.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

fun and pleasure

jere, 07/21/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Have owned car about 16 months. Fun to drive, especially on trips. Some problems I wouldn't expect...radiator replacement, valve gaskets...but have found a reasonable repair shop. Looking for a 2001.

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5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely Love It!!!

beemerguy, 08/07/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have owned several BMW's, but this is by far the nicest most pleasureable one to drive. Maintaining it is worth it since it has all the attributes of a sports car and the accomodations of a luxury sedan. Super for business or family.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Too Much Fun

RobB, 08/11/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Since I bought my beemer in '00 I have just loved it. It did go thru a period of breakdowns around 80K miles but this is to be expected especially how I drive it. I regularly run at 115 to 120+ on the open Northern CA hwy's. Very responsive and fun. Comfort level is way up there. Raced it a few times at Infineon Raceway. This is a car that loves to fully aspirate in huge deep breaths and so do you when you drive it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Finally A Car To Match My Personality!

D-Pak, 05/08/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is the finest machine I have ever driven, and believe me I have driven a lot. The power and handling are excellent, and that is what makes the car fun to drive. In short, it is the perfect blend of performance, luxury, and elegance.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Needs Minor fixes on Design

Sandy, 12/22/2004
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Probably one of the best driving cars on the road in its category. The engine /power and stability is excellent. Like a mistress , it is expensive, stylish and requires constant attention. Brakes are the best .. comes with the cost of replacing the rotors and pads very frequently. Tire alignment is a problem- so there is uneven wear of tire and they needs to be replaced more frequently. Automatic power windows are problem. They break very easily.. apparently there is a plastic part attached to the cable that breaks very easily.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

love and pain

RS, 01/10/2010
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Over the last 12 years I've owned a 528i and then briefly owned a 2004 M3 (what a machine that was) and for the last couple years I've owned a 98 740i with a Dinan package. Amazing deep blue car that is a joy to drive. The problems just started after about 106K miles...oil leak, spark plug issue, heater quit working, power steering leak...ugh. Just got a call from the shop wanting more than $4K to fix it all. I feel the car is a beautiful car but freaky to spend this much all at once. I just put brand new tires and brakes 6 months ago as well. All in all...I haven't driven a car I like better except for the M3...another story...just make sure you are aware that the big 8 cost more to fix.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Impressive Ride!!

jtb444, 11/11/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Finally got the car I've wanted for years in great shape with only one prior owner. Love the power and the looks. I can't see myself in the 2002+ model. Minor mechanicals but great dealer service at very reasonable prices compared to my wife's Volvo dealer. Son loves it!!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

One Fine Performance Sedan

bdbd, 11/13/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Excellent Car; far better than the new 745; solid, performance oriented ....

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5 out of 5 stars

Best car ever owned

Judith Speth, 05/14/2005
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Since I've owned this vehicle I've had only one repair. Take it in annually for an oil change, but that's about it. It's fun to drive and I've yet to be beaten in a race. We abuse it since we own rentals and load it up to drive the 300 miles to our rentals. My husband owns 2 vehicles but my BMW is our car of choice and he's trading his Audi All Road for a 750li. We always vacation in the Beamer.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

BMW--NO OTHER

lionel, 11/14/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Smooth,strong, silent ride;low maintenance.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I am going to miss my 740iL

jrlambert, 06/17/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It is the ultimate driving machine! Fun and comfortable

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Our740IL

BMW Driver, 10/02/2002
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We sell high line imports & drive one ourself. We have had them ALL & I find the 740Il very well built & reliable. Other than a few minor flaws in is designe for the most part it will stand up to daily driving in this country. It has the style we liked has proven it self to be very well built. Having the ability to have work done on it at our own shop has not been a factor. In the year it has only needed a brake job.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

The next best thing to flying.

vnammoman, 12/10/2003
1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The BMW 740iL is absolute fun to drive. It's performance is outstanding. The 4L engine provides plenty of power, but most of all, the road handling is superb. Just a touch of the wheel and you corner like nothing else. It's as though you were flying, not driving.

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