Used 1999 BMW 7 Series Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1999 7 Series, so we've included reviews for other years of the 7 Series since its last redesign.
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Junk to Hunk
gregskipa, 07/01/2015
1999 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I bought my 740i for $800. It had an issue with the timing chain guide that I am told is common for this model. It was sitting all alone on a dealer's lot, just waiting for the right person to come along. This car LOOKED great, no major cosmetic issues other than the driver's seat looked like it had been to hell and back and the headliner was starting to come down. I figured AT WORST I'd get my money out of it in parts. After buying the 'special' tools, I replaced the timing chain and guides, just to see what I REALLY had. Let me tell you, when they say 'Ultimate Driving Machine', they ain't kidding! With the variable valve timing, 282 BHP, and anti-roll suspension, this big thing STICKS!
1999 BMW 7 Series for sale near you
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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....
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 havent 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
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.
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.
110K miles of first owner experience.
Peter Judar, 06/26/2008
1999 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Purchased this vehicle new at 74 miles with sport package and I can tell you everything about this car. You will replace the radiator like a clockwork every 35K miles, about $400. Transmission failed at 73k miles. Extended warranty covered all but $100. While I loved the sport package wheels, I got sick of paying $250 per tire every 17k miles, put 17 inch BMW wheels on with Michelins for $150 each now get 35k miles per tire with a way better ride, less the look, oh well! Still get 14/21 mpg city/hwy. Recently replaced both front rubber mounts/arms for $400. Car tracks and steers like new! Rear/right window regulator replaced $600. Fan blew up at 80k miles and went through belt/hood
1999 750iL - 30 month review
Scott, 03/03/2007
1999 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Bought @ 50K miles for $29K out the door. Needed major service, thrust rod bushings & sway links. After $2,100 all good. Since then: battery x 2, climate control fan motor, radiator repair, tires, repair hood latch, replace oxygen sensors, new front pads & rotors, new electronic thermostat, 2nd major service, added new center armrest & ashtray coin tray, replaced cup holder & console wood trim, replaced outside mirror pass. side, replaced map light rear pass. side, replaced two side windows pass. side & rear driver side, several scheduled maintenance visits & replaced one ultrasonic parking sensor. I may be missing a few things, grand total $13K. Present mileage 100,400. BMW: Break My Wallet.
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.
Still an Ultimate Driving Machine
Ezzyme, 03/01/2010
1999 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I just bought this with 115,000 miles on it. The paint is a 7 - swirl marks and a couple of minor dings. But the interior is a 9, even after 11 years and 115,000 miles. The back seat looks like no one has sat their. The driving experience is exceptional.
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!
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- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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.
Most fun/value among used luxury cars
solution, 09/18/2004
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought my 740IL when it was 5 years old with 1 year of CPO warranty left. It was love by first sight. It looks gracful on the outside, and unblieveably spacious in the inside, much more than the 96 Deville it replaced. 10 months passed, it has been smooth running and problem-free. With it, I have been looking forward to my daily one-hour and a half commute. So much fun and comfort.
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.
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 .
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.
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.
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.
Wish They Had Not Changed
An Original Owner, 02/09/2003
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My 1999 BMW 740iL now has 66,000 miles, still no problem - mechnical - body - interior - anyplace. The space in the back seat for longer trips can't be matched by Mercedes or any car I know of. Due to age I considered trading my 1999 for a 2003 745LI. Don't like the look of the 2003 745 or all of the "advanced techno" stuff I'll never use. Wish they hads never changed the the body style. o stuff" I'll never need.
The Best Car I have even owned
Gus177, 02/17/2003
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is not only a high performance car, it is a beauty, both in and out. Design wise, has BMW written all over it, unlike the new 745il that can be mistaken for an Infinity or a Nissan. It broke my heart when they discontinued the 740.
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!
excellent car
satfoun, 04/19/2003
1999 BMW 7 Series 740i 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
fabulous car.Some problems that should not occur like,radiator,radiator reservoir, onboard computer digits missing pixcels and afew other things.
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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!
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.
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
my dream car
shawnpr, 09/01/2002
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is the first car I have wanted to drive for an fun. When I am bored and have nothing to do, I take a drive, it is the ultimate driving experience.
1999 740IL
meemygirl, 08/25/2004
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The ride is excellent but too many gadgets have had to be repaired: rear and front cup holders, rear glass window up and down, car phone electronics still do not work, glove compartment latch. I could go on, but the smooth ride is still the best.
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.
My 750iL CAA1
Clifford A Armstrong, 05/24/2006
1999 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great, great car, big comfortable, gets 23 mpg at 75mph. Problems have been with the cooling system, mostly raditor and associated parts. Next problem is the double-pane glass that discolors from separation between the two panes. Company will not replace, even though all had been replaced under warranty the first time. Expensive to maintain, hard to work on the engine because of tight spaces.
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.
Too fun not to drive
31 year old, 11/13/2003
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 72k on it. Can honestly say that it is the greatest sport sedan land yacht around. The power plant could use a little more punch but is more than apt for the application. The DSC is a true lifesaver. I am 6 foot 6 inches and I can sit in the driver seat with my legs completely straight. Comfort is available in every seat. The rear seats are more like a nice leather couch. One thing that was added were wheels from the new 745. The 18" wheels have helped the performance around corners.
Awesome driving machine
x1811, 10/13/2004
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought used with 52,000 miles. Car looked and drove new. After two months, I can say this is the finest car I've ever owned. Although I'm partial to high end Toyotas, this vehicle drives like a dream. Comfort front and back are superior, wind noise is low, and it attracks looks everywhere, even in the church parking lot. Great fun to drive at higher speeds (80-90). Gas mileage hwy 23 mph.
Classic BMW - 740iL
Lord Zornes, 08/02/2002
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This was our first 7 series - our other being a 2000 740iL. Have been impressed with the quiet, comfort and speed - not to mention the "legacy look" of the E38 7 Series. The new E60 series are too hodge- podged on the exterior for our taste. I doubt we'll be upgrading anytime soon. Only issue - the Nappa leather on our green one (a butter creme colour) -- seems to reek of mustiness all the time - especially when the summer heat bakes the car during the day. Replacing the airfilter, as well as placing boxes of Arm & Hammer baking soda doesn't seem to remove the stale smell. *sigh* - time for some "leather" spray I guess.
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.
Enjoy it while you can, before bankrupt
SP, 11/13/2009
1999 BMW 7 Series 750iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A great car I am sure when new. Bought in 2009. 10 yrs old. Main module computer replaced, radiator, air-cond, headlight, deadpixels, worst, unfixable petrol smell, told a leak is there and the seal replacement is expensive. Great to enjoy it but when comes to maintenance, well, you know... I make sure I get the best out of it before my bankruptcy if I keep it. Once in a lifetime experience, may even get another one when the right encounter occurs. What a love-hate relationship!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Never be CHEAP with Elegant Fine car, !
9Musicman, 07/31/2020
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
if a person Can't Afford to take care of a Fine, Quick Elegant Limousine, drive something else ! Pride of Quality and Ownership plays into what you Value.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
World greatest car
redskins23607, 09/05/2006
1999 BMW 7 Series 740iL 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned mercedes, lexus and bmws. This is the best. I will pick Bimmer over all others. The performance is amazing. This one is stock and runs with the best of vehicles. I am going to chip it out so I can get all I can out of her. I love this car!
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.
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.
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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.
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.
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.
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.