Used 2001 BMW 7 Series Consumer Reviews
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Lucky
Well I have had a lot of great cars, Lexus, Mercedes this is my 5th BMW first 7 series. I had 3 3 series and 1 528 All very nice and great cars in their own right. But by far this is the best car I have ever owned. I never kept a car more than 3 or 4 years. I have now had my 7 for 9 years. 205K and still running strong. Same feel as the day I bought it. I did replace the alternator and the radiator. Also had the trans rebuilt. But with two kids in college and this economy 100K for a new one is a bit on the back burner. I would buy this car again in a heartbeat. My 13 year old son and I were on a trip recently and he said to me Dad this car is great. Well he did grow up in it!
Love it/Hate it
After months of searching for the right 740, I have come to the conclusion that no matter the mileage you need to be prepared for service costs. It takes 2-3 years to understand that the 38 series is "bought on emotion, sold out of frustration". Absolutely one of the best looking sedans ever made and if you are ready for the reality of costs, you will love it.
- 740i SedanMSRP: $17,9956 mi away
- 740i SedanMSRP: $14,900367 mi away
- 740i SedanMSRP: $15,888644 mi away
THE BEST CAR ON THE ROAD
About 6 years ago my husband bought me the 2001 740i. I have put over 75,000 mile on it in 6 years and when I reached 210,000 miles I decided to give it to my son and go buy a "new" car. Not because I needed to as my "baby" still looks and handles and runs like a brand new car but I do alot of driving and thought a newer car would be more reliable on long trips. Well I looked at all the newer model Bimmers, test drove them, kicked the tires, walked around the outside, sat in the back seat....and guess what? Forget the new car. I bought a 2001 BMW 740iL with 85,000 miles on it! I loved the 740i...I adore the 740iL!
Best in its class
I purchased my 740i the summer of 2007 with 122K, it now has 170k. Mechanically i have changed a suspension component ($250), brakes($1100) battery($150) and tires($1100) otherwise just oil service. Recently it has began to slowly leak coolant. The reliability has been excellent and it still feels very much like a new vehicle. Preformance is Great but remember it is a large sedan The interior is beyond expectations. Exterior is beautiful with the sport package!!! Overall it is a great vehicle to enjoy for many years. I would never consider trading for anything else of similar value,
This Used to be my Dream Car, became a nightmare..
I see a lot of great reviews about this car, and not surprisingly, most of them were written within 5 years or so of the car being born - the others must just be those really lucky ones (laugh). I bought this car in 2008 with 120k miles on it, it now has 210k. In that time, I've spent roughly $15000 on the various repairs and upkeep of the car. I'm not a wealthy man, and in short, this car has ruined me financially. I'm going to be selling it soon for a Camry or Avalon - I just want something reliable, first and foremost, after having the unfortunate experience of dealing with the expensive repairs needed to keep this beautiful car running. Update - I consider myself lucky as I did not end up needing to sell the car (which I think I would have had a hard time doing given the 210+k miles on it), someone rear ended me in a hit and run and totaled the 740. At that point the repairs would have been about $6000, about $500 more than what they deemed the car was worth at that point. Used the insurance money towards at 2008 Acura TL, has been great so far, only repairs that have been needed are changing out brakes and changing transmission oil.
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BMW Flagship Car, a luxury ICON worth owning!
This fabulous motorcar is the most comfortable luxury vehicle that I have ever owned. Although it takes -- and deserves -- premium gasoline, my 2001 BMW 740iL is surprisingly gas-efficient! If well-maintained, annual maintenance costs are less than what would be paid for annual lease payments on a Toyota. My BMW dealer recently allowed me to use a 2016 "loaner" while servicing my 2001 740iL but getting back into my 2001 felt like returning to heaven as it remains superior to any 2016 BMW model.
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U gotta get one to understand
This is my second 7 series. Last one was '00 iL. I now have '01 "i" sport in silver. Awesome car that has short comings like expensive repairs and some reliability problems but I wouldn't trade it for anything. I disagree with some of the posts here. If you pay $300/ tire, you are getting ripped off and oil changes don't cost $200. Matter of fact, I have coupon from dealer for $51 with synthetic oil. Ride is rough but it's the sport package and I love it. Keep in mind these cars orginally cost 70K plus, and this particular body style is no longer made so make sure you inspect them really well. Look for bad instrument pixels, Power Steering leaks, radiator fan replacement. Great cars though.
Excellent Value
Enjoy driving this car. Handling is excellent, get 31 mph on highway, great sound system, excellent power for hwy acceleration and torque for starting. Upgraded the Nav system with the DVD MKIV system and the infamous Radiator problem fixed under the extended warranty. I put 19" BMW OEM wheels with 245x40 and 275x35 Goodyear tires and the handling is much improved.
Exhilarating 740i M sport package
Took delivery of a low mileage, (52,300) sport sedan, thanks to all the advise, blogs, concerns and messages from well-wishers who opined if I chose to indulge in the 7 Series cadre, I should pay considerable attention to the 2001, and more particularly the M Sport package. Being used to the size of the two 3er I own (90 & 94), the size is imposing and the MPG disastrous, to say the least. But once I sat in the "cockpit", which was a significant upgrade from the 3er, powered it on, quiet, and provided the ambiance to carry on a conversation at normal levels. I was impressed. The compromise for what it delivers in driving pleasure feels compensates for the not so good gas mileage. A delight
2001 BMW 740iL
I've owned this car since new. A few repairs...service air conditioning, replace drivers seat trim containing seat controls...plastic-broken. One new set of Michelin tires. The car is a wonderful driver. I own several other BMWs, every time I drive this one, I keep saying to myself, what a great car this is. Very comfortable, good performance, great fuel economy for a car this size, lots of trunk space, enormous back seat and leg room. I look at the new ones, but a little hard to justify $125,000.00 to purchase a 2017 7-Series, to replace what I have in a car that I just love to drive. I also own a new 2016 BMW X5, lots of nice new technology, but the 740 runs just fine without all the pizzazz.
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CAR OF MY DREAMS, that can also keep me awake at night
Great car. LOOKS to kill, handling to kill. The growl of the v12 coming to life on a 0 degree winter east coast morning is toxic....I love the car. I have had my 750 since August of 2014...Gas mileage is not bad and is actually better than my previous SL500 Mercedes! The stance of the car makes you stare at it, especially with the fatter wheel in the rear. Plenty of room. Everyone loves if I am driving and always wants to ride in the back.... Love the double paned glass with protection package
INCREDIBLE ULTIMATE MACHINE
I must say if you can love a car this is it! This car is very powerful, fun to drive and reliable. Everyone admires the car and it is very luxurious.
The true Ultimate Driving Machine
This is my second BMW. I have a '98 5 series which was the best car I had ever driven. Compared to the 740iL, the 5 series is very pedestrian. I have never driven a more responsive, agile and comfortable car. Its a true sports sedan. The interior, while not overly exciting to the senses, has a refined, rich feel. It has all the bells and whistles. The stereo is nice but not conducive to bass heavy music. Also, back up the Brinks truck when its time for repairs. If you can find a good mechanic, avoid the dealership. However, the real fun begins when you sit behind the wheel. A lot of power. I cannot describe the driving experience. You have to live it. Forget Mercedes, Lexus, Audi.
Best 7-series ever
I've owned my 740i sport edition (black/black) for 4 years and put about 40K additional miles. This car is the most stylish 7 ever. Sports edition with 19" rims and slim muscular looks. I've had minor issues with mine (cup holder broke, engine opening cable issue, radiator crack (covered under warranty). Always a nice drive, and acceleration is awesome, particularly from 40 to 80 mph. I've had the car up to 110 mph and it seems to want to live at that speed. Extremely smooth drive. Traction control helps in snow, but forget about this on any substantial ice/snow. The 282 hp is deceiving, torque is calibrated perfectly to compensate. I love my 740i Sport Edition. A classic car some day.
It Is the Best BMW Ever
Great car. Buy one if you get the chance. Just lost mine to an accident.
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Best car I have ever had
I had owned a 1998 740iL for 8 years and absolutely loved it. When it became apparent that it would not pass inspection this coming year due to rust I decided to look for a new car. After looking at many new cars, even visiting the Detroit Auto show I decided to buy a 2001 740iL. This car handles so well, it is an absolute dream to drive. It makes all other cars feel awful to drive after driving the 740. The power is amazing as well and gets better fuel millage than most cars its size and many smaller. Simply put it is an amazing buy for luxury power and great looks.
Great Touring Sedan
Although it is a great car in many facets, living in the midwest I should have gotten the Audi A8L w/all-wheel drive. The car is quite, smooth, very roomy and is a road warrior. Up keep is pricey but that should be expected, get an extended warranty or a certified one. This car will fishtail on you in the snow and rain that is why my next car will be an Audi A8 L. Also, a bit boxy compared to the same year, Lexus, Infiniti, Audi and Benz.
Best 13K I've ever spent
Bought an 01 740i w sports package 100K on the odometer. Put $2K into Trans fluid, Belts, Oil leak all other fluids, new plugs etc... I drive over 150 miles per day in it at 80mph and it still averages 24 mpg! Build quality is unmatched, engine is so quiet at idle I need to look at the tach to see if it's on! These cars are made to last (if you take care of them). Seats look unworn due to the incredible quality of the leather on an 8+ year old car. Oh, and buy the warranty, It'll save you!
One of my favorite cars
I have the Sport edition 740iL. The car is phenomenal. Unbelievably roomy interior, great styling, and despite its size, it still handles nimbly like a much smaller car. Easy to understand and well-laid out controls. The throttle response is very linear and predictable, and it has an amazingly tight turning radius. It takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Mine was hit twice in the rear and once in the front (before I bought it), and after being repaired- you couldn't tell. It still handled and drove great. I love this car. I bought an S65 Mercedes to replace it, but I still miss the BMW. The Mercedes is a rocket ship, but it doesn't drive as nimbly and instinctively as the BMW.
E38 Flagship model from BMW. Beautiful simpler.
This is a great comfortable car to own I owned it for 10 years and I have to admit, nothing comes even close on comfort on long stretch of road. Exceptional comfort. I have traveled cross country on this car for many times and seats on these cars are simply best there is.( 16 way extra comfort and roomy cabin its a first class seating like airplane.) One thing people do not realize is that if you are buying this car after 15 year of production, BE READY to spend money to tune this. If you are tight on budget. this is NOT a good car for you. if you want to restore, enjoy riding this like new, this is one beautiful car. much simpler to troubleshoot then newer models with a lot of gadgets. Get the 2001 last year and look for well cared car with detail service history its worth a while.
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The Best & the Last?
My 4th blk/blk 750il sport is the best one yet and am now frustrated by mixed reviews of '02 up 7 series including the change in body style.. where does one go from here? Where else can one find the luxury, prestige, power and fuel efficiency in superb style?
BMW 740i
Great Car. Mediocre reliability but I don't care.
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Best bargin on the road!!
This is one amazing car!! for what you can pick up a nice clean 01 740i for today everyone should try it out. The motor is bulletproof the trans is the weak link, however rebuilt it and the car will run to 200-300k easily. Getting there might not be cheap, radiators, water pumps, expansion tank, suspension parts will break down and random sensors and gaskets will leak. Despite all that this car is tight as a Drum at 125k miles, handling is amazing for a car this size. I installed some 18 M- Parallel staggered wheels. The power delivery is fast and linear, only 282hp but feels faster than my friends 550i. Car is a beast, a tank call it what you will, no body roll on highway!! Buy one
Simply Amazing
This is the first BMW I've ever bought. Before I had all Japanese sports cars that were very nice. When I was shopping around for the 740, I knew that these cars are expensive and known to have issues. Bought mine w/ 100k miles from original owner with all service records. After 2k miles, the alternator failed. Paid $400 for a rebuild one directly from Bosch and fixed it myself. It is true that this car is expensive to maintain but if you work on it yourself (thanks to e38.org writeups), you will save a lot of money. The bottom line is that this car is simply amazing and worth every penny that you spend on it. The feeling you get while driving in this spaceship is unexplainable.
Sweet ride that costs to drive
Bought this car used with 32000 miles on it in 2004. I now have 69000 miles on it. Fast for a large car and stylish. Lots of interior space!! Had to replace the radiator 3 times. Replaced the ABS module - $$$$$.
Very Good Car
Purchased new when I traded my '93 740iL. '93 had better interior and build quality but needed engine replaced at 110k. Both cars very comfortable, powerful and attractive. Have had to replace radiator, expansion tank and water pump as well as front end work. Great integrated phone and (older CD type) nav, all voice activated too! Phone/radio controls on steering very handy. Will never buy car without those features again. I find the nav system easy to use but all require some time to learn. Wish CD player was not in trunk. It is quiet at highway speeds and has a huge trunk. So far I have had nearly 80k of great driving. Hope next car will work as well.
740il review
I just bought the car about a week ago. The car is awsome. It has features I never knew existed on an automobile. The last car I bought was an Acura Legend. Great car, but the BMW is head and shoulders above my Acura. The fit and finish is a 10. It drives like a sports car, not at all like a big car. It is extremely responsive. It feels like the car has a lot bigger engine than a mere 4.4 L and 282 horsepower. The rear passengers go in style as well -- heated seats, separate heater outlets, ski pass through, on-board navigation, you name it. I'm a happy guy!
I love this car
The 2001 BMW 740i I purchased in August 2001 changed my life. Driving anywhere is a sensual experience. I deliberately take a longer route to work in the morning. Whenever I have to drive any other car I feel like I am driving dead weight, not to mention that I feel very uncool in it. The Sport Package is an absolute MUST!!! The 18" M-parallel spoke wheels are gorgeous, and the lowered front suspension gives the car an aggressive, athletic posture. Sport mode transmission option makes this car a rocket.
My 01 Big Bimmer 740i
After 108K miles, the paint still looks great it accelerates wonderfully and the 18"-M parallel wheels still are timely. I recently change (6 liters) the tranny fluid and filter. No one could tell me what "life time fluid" means in miles or years. belts, O2 sensors and A/C blower have been replaced. Of course, you 01 owners know about the radiator and expansion tank problems (50k miles and death sets in). The display still has all the pixels and the Bose system still rocks. Try Toyo Proxos tire if you have a 7. They are the best tire I have bought. I love this car, costs a few bucks to keep going. But doing 79 on th highway and getting 25 to 26 MPG is pretty good for a 2 ton, V8 hoss
Too many repairs
This is an elegant and wonderful to drive vehicle. Too bad the constant repairs costing thousands of dollars make it impossible to recommend. The car wont start so Im having it towed. The hood wont open, trunk opening is broken, glove box wont open, 3/4 windows don't open, nav computer is kaput, and this is only the latest repairs needed. The warranty is up so I'm guessing the repairs from todays tow to the dealer will be between $1k and $5k depending on if the nav/radio system need full replacement. The cup holders are terrible, the stereo has very poor sound relative to new Camry and others. I just wish I could talk my wife into another brand. Maybe after this expense she will consider it.
Absolutely Fabulous!
Just bought a used one with 110,000K on it a week ago, and LOVE it. The power is surprising for 282HP, but 325LB FT of torque is sweet. I don't have the contour seats, but the basic seats are great. This car handles great for its size. I have a rare Slate Green 740i with Oyster Nappa leather, and english green dashboard and carpet. It truly is a joy to own. There are a couple little problems but cheap to fix. GREAT car.
750iL WOW
There is not a finner car on the planet I have owned MB S series (close) BMW 740iL very nice Volvos, Cadillacs, Infinitys and the list goes on my 2001 750iL has it all Fun, comfort, power (WOW) I live in the snow belt and I drive my 750 all year without snow tires. You cant own a better car I swear.
740IL
The 740IL is the best car I have ever driven. It is not only good looking but it is comfortable and quick. The run flat tires drive alittle rough but nothing you dont get used to. The navigation system is unbelievable and can honestly get you anywhere.
Great driving car, but...
I bought this car for my wife, knowing about the BMW driving experiences. She upgraded from an Olds 88 to a 740 iL. Needless to say, she loves driving it. We both agree that the engine harmonics are superb, the chassis well designed for its time, and the inside build quality very good. But the cupholders are useless, the doors open so wide that you won't reach the inside handle anymore and heavy to manipulate, and it's not the most reliable car out there. In a few words : the typical German car. Also, don't trust the computer mpg consumption. Way optimistic! Old school calculations returned 25 mpg on highway at best, without cruise control, and 16 urban. Get a late production car w/wide nav.
Expensive to OWN
Do not purchase this car if you don't have A LOT of cash for all of the repairs you will have at high mileage. Window motors $1000 / computer $2800, power steering $3000, timing chain $4000, etc. I could not get rid of the car fast enough. Took a total bath and lost a lot of money! Run run run from this car!
2001 - 740i - Sports Package
Best built sedan by far; the sports package makes it even better. An absolute dream machine to drive for the past 6 years. Unmatched style and performance compared to any new BMW sedan or other comparable sedans don't even come close. Great MPG on highways. Without a doubt a better car for you than new, if you find an 01 one with low miles (40k to 60k) get it. You won't do better money wise or performance wise anywhere else at this price level, around $20k.
One of the Best Cars on the Road
The 740i - sports package 00 or 01 is "the" car to drive. Speed, handling, cornering and road grip is unmatched. No other 4 door car can come close to the 740i - none. Too bad BMW ruined the 7 series and soon all series with that bulky, ugly, bubbly design. Shame on BMW for pulling such a stupid move. If you're looking for a great vehicle; try to find a 00 or 01 740i - sports package; miles 40K to 60K in the $28K range You will love it. Again, 740i not the IL
The Cliche Holds True
This car makes for a wonderful driving experience, especially on long trips. The sport package is a must have. These cars can be fairly reliable if scheduled maintenance is kept up, however, it's not a Honda Accord. If you're planning on purchasing a used E38, do your research. Suspension, cooling, and braking system repairs can be costly, and it's very helpful to know how to tell if the previous owner has kept up on these things. If you're an educated and savvy vehicle owner, you'll find that a used 7 series is a nearly impossible to beat combination of styling and performance for the price, even when figuring in maintenance
Think twice
You need to remember that you are buying a luxury car and with that comes very expensive repairs / diagnostics. I have the 740i sport and the top of the line tires cost $300/each to replace. The cost to replace a battery is over $300. Synthetic oil changes cost around $200. Prepare to spend a least a few thousand dollars on upkeep of this car and also, be very aware that it's rear- wheel drive. If you live anywhere that is prone to ice/snow, think twice about this car! Fun to drive / nice looking car did not outweigh the costs associated with ownership for me. I seem to be one of the few dissenters on how great these cars are.
It's gonna change your life
I have had for only two months and I can't believe the overall quality and the ride experience. I probably will never drive any car other than a BMW for the rest of my life.
BMW 740IL---ULTIMATE MACHINE
I HAVE NEVER BEEN IN A CAR THAT JUST HUGS THE ROAD LIKE IT IS ANGRY AT IT...WHAT A MACHINE...THE NEW STYLE IS A COMPLETE DEBACLE OF CRAFTMANSHIP, BUT IF THEY WOULD HAVE LEARNED NOT TO MESS WITH PERFECTION...GO OUT AND GET A 2001 WHILE THEY ARE STILL AROUND..UNBELIEVABLE CAR
2001 740iL
The car is docile and surprisingly sporty for a large sedan (mine has the sports package). You have to look behind you to remind you of the amount of metal that's following you. The car does everything for you. The interior is well crafted, extremely roomy. It is likely the safest car on the road. Acceleration is impressive. The best car I've ever owned by a long shot.
740i sport
This is the best and most enjoyable car I have ever owned. And my previous car was a 99 540 so it has some good competition. The car handles like a car half its size, accelerates like a Mustang GT and is as comfortable as Lincoln.
Best car I ever owned
The only other car that came close in terms of fun was my 1964-1/2 Mustang, but I was young then, and not looking for luxury. The 740iL is comfortable, roomy, powerful, nimble, and quiet.
The Smaller 7 Series
Have found that this 740I has all the pleasures as the 740IL has to offer but with less bulk to handle. Have been driving it for over three years and been trouble free with 50M miles plus and the handling the roads in the mountains have been what BMW noted for on curves etc. The gas mileage on long trips avg around 22 to 23 miles per gal. I have found that the 2001 is the last of the old style and possibly most of any problems they have had been cleared up. I have noted that you do not see many resales for 2001 and they have been holding up in value. Would I buy another BMW 7 Series, Yes.. A Good 05 or 06.
7TH HEAVEN
COMFORTABLE, safe, reliable (thus far!) roomy, untouched by Mr. Bangle, almost quiet,and a bigger trunk than the S, but not the dazzling interior or tech goodies of a A8 (we owned one--it saved me form a 55 mph moron). The 7 is more fun to drive than the A.The Ultimate .... you know.
AS LONG AS I CAN DRIVE ONE I WILL
The 7 Series is not my first BMW just my first 7. This car is combination cruiser and sports car all in one. This car growls when the throttle is pressed but yet very smooth and quiet when driven on the freeway.
farese bmw valuation
Never a problem in 4 years. Garage kept year round, rarely used in winter.Twice a year detailing - looks like new. Had windshield replaced, that's about it. Also has a facia shield on the lights, hood facing, etc - which is imperceptibel but guarantees against cracks, knicks etc.
Amazing
This is the finest car I have ever driven. I love the acceleration and handling in addition to the superior comfort of the ride. I can honestly say that I will probably never drive another make other than BMW. I am sold for life on BMW's! the other day, I had a guilty pleasure when I beat a car-full of teenagers in a drag race on the highway. They were amazed!
Fantastic Sport model
This car is amazing. It feels wonderful as you drive straight or on curving highways. Just back from a road trip and am extremely pleased. I had a '92 735i, that I thought was great but THIS car is SO much better in every category except mpg. I do plan to have several Dinan products put on the car to even further enhance the incredible performance.