TIMM'S BMW E38 BUYING GUIDE
Straight 6 (M52) fitted to 728i
M62TUB44 with electronic throttle body and twin-Vanos
V12 (M73) fitted to 750i
All the engines in the V8 range were ahead of their time with quad overhead-cams, 32 valves, sequential fuel-injection and 8 coil-over-plug
ignition packs. The first E38 V8's retained the engines from the E32 (M60) with the 730i and 740i having the 3.0Ltr and 4.0Ltr M60
respectively. The M60 engines were manufactured using the Nikasil manufacturing process and command much lower resale prices in respect
to the M62 engined cars. In 2008 the 'Nikasil problem' is old news and these engines have the same longevity as it's successor.
In 1996 the M60 engine was replaced with the M62, at the same time the engine capacity was increased to 3.5Ltr and 4.4Ltr for the 735i and
740i respectively. These engines were produced using the Alusil process to harden the combustion bores. These engines are seen as more
reliable and were designated M62B35 and M62B44 with 235BHP and 286BHP. The M62B's were powerful but the power was seen at the
higher end of the rev range making the cars a bit slow off the line but quickly making up for it as the revs rose.
In September 1998 the M62TUB35 and M62TUB44 was introduced. These engines were similar to the M62B's but included twin-Vanos on the
inlet camshafts. Although the BHP for the 4.4Ltr remained the same at 286BHP and the torque was increased by by a mere 20Nm, the
torque-curve was much flatter and this makes the Vanos V8's much more driveable. The inclusion of the Vanos system also smoothed the
idle and increased economy. These changes were made during the 'facelift' process and these cars command a higher price.
The 730i (1994-1996) has similar performance to the 728i (see above) but uses more fuel (33MPG on motorway runs). The 735i is slightly
quicker than both, but not a great deal so as would be expected. It is a bit quicker from the lights but the pre-facelift (non-Vanos) engines
need quite a few revs to squeeze the power out. However, in Sports mode, once the revs hit 4000 RPM they can really shift.
The 740i is a bit more of a brute, the M60B40 engine in the early models (1994-1996) like a few revs to achieve power but the 4 Litres
certainly give a push. The M62TUB44 fitted to the post-facelift cars (after September 1998) are monsters and can be quite intimidating to
the unwary, they definitely need the DSC switched ON in poor conditions as the back-end can snap out without warning. On long runs the
740i can return a good 33 MPG, very similar returns to the 735i. The Vanos system really makes a difference as does the temperature-
mapped thermostat that allows the engine to run hotter when cruising. The 740i can be driven quietly and smoothly but that misses the
point, if you just like cruising get a 728i!
INTERIOR OPTIONS
Seats
There are three basic seat types with numerous options including ventilation, active (massaging) and heated:
Standard seat Comfort seat Contour (Sports) seat
Centre Console/MID/On Board Monitor
There are three basic configurations for the centre console:
MID console 4:3 Monitor 16:9 Monitor
MKI and MKII MKIII MKIV
does not come as standard. The adjustments available are quite sufficient in normal use.
The comfort seats
have additional adjustments for lumbar (lower back) support which can be moved both horizontally and vertically. The
back of the seat can be adjusted for rake in the upper half in respect to the lower half.
The contour seats
have the same adjustments as the comfort seats but have additional adjustment of the thigh support which can move
horizontally away from the seat base. These seats are fitted as standard to the Sports models and offer the greatest amount of support and
adjustment.
Heating was optional
on all seat types. The active option consists of two fluid-filled bags under the surface of the seat base. The fluid is
moved between the two bags every few seconds and this slight unbalancing of the seat causes the driver to shift position slightly and
reduces back stress. It is an acquired taste and can be quite disconcerting to the unwary.
Ventilation
was also available as an option, this keeps the seat cooler in the summer months and is quite an unusual addition.
The On Board Monitor is the hub for a number of options, Sat-Nav, television, telephone and Trafficmaster, without the monitor these
options (apart from basic telephone use) are not available. A few years ago it was financially viable to retrofit the 4:3 screen to an E38
that only had the MID option. Presently, with the cheap availability of E38's with monitors already fitted it isn't such a desirable prospect,
especially as the retrofit of these options is extremely complicated.
The retrofit of a 16:9 monitor in an E38 already fitted with the 4:3 monitor is much less involved. It also requires a change of the video
module (fitted in the boot) to get full use of the features. Both the 4:3 and the 16:9 monitors come in LHD and RHD versions, make sure
you get the right version for your car.
Sat-Nav
The E38 was supplied with 3 versions of Sat-Nav: MKI, MKII and MKIII. The MKIV was only ever retrofitted but is now quite common as
the retrofit is extremely simple and the DVD-based MKIV is much faster.
The
MKI
was an option in the early models and had a male voice, it was a complicated system with a head unit, GPS unit, magnetic
heading unit and an antenna. It was pretty slow and often failed to track the car's position.
The
MKII
was a slightly faster and the magnetic heading sensor was replaced with a gyro sensor that was integrated into the head unit. It
still had a separate GPS unit and antenna. The MKII was introduced around 1998 and the integration into the cars information system
caused a few problems with the complete system freezing and locking the use of any monitor functions.
The
MKIII
was introduced on the 2000 models and is quicker again. The GPS unit is integrated into the head unit and requires only an
antenna to operate. This version does not suffer from the freezing and lock-up that the MKII did. All three versions of Sat-Nav can be
brought up-to-date by purchasing later versions of operating system and maps. When used with the 16:9 screen the MKIII can be run in
split-screen mode with directions and map on the same screen.
The
MKIV
is a DVD
-
based system and is much faster than the previous models. The map DVD's also cover Europe whereas the CD's used
on the earlier systems only cover one area. You can also get a bird's-eye-view (perspective view) on the MKIV
SPORTS - INDIVIDUAL - HIGHLINE MODELS
Sport Models
Ebay is full of 'Sports' E38's but they are rarely the real thing. The true Sports models have two items that define the marque, a high stall-
speed torque-converter and a lower-ratio differential, the correct option number for this is S204A. These two items are extremely rarely
retro-fitted whereas the M-Parallel wheels and M steering wheel are quite often stuck on standard models. The Sport 740i is 0.1 second
faster to 62MPH than the standard 740i but feels a lot quicker. The Sports models had a basic price
£
3,900 higher than the standard
model.
Although this car has 18" M-Parallels, M-Steering wheel, body-coloured skirts, is de-chromed and has S-EDC, the lack of an Anthracite
headlining and Sports/Contour seats means that this is not a Sports model
NON-SPORT
SPORT
Individual / Highline Models
The E32 Highline model was real head-turner with great expanses
of wood trim, picnic tables, rear vanity lights and often a
refrigerator in the rear. There was not an E38 Highline model,
however the E38 option list included most of the Highline elements
including the wooden picnic tables.
The first question is what constitutes an Individual Model? The
simple answer is a car that was ordered with options that could not
be taken from the standard options list. The Individual options were
more expensive than the standard options which increases their
resale value, however as the Individual options were entirely at the
whim of the original buyer some colour combinations were not to
everyone's taste! Click here for an example customer order.
Identifying an Individual model is quite easy as shown on the right.
There has been some discussion regarding Individual models that
do not have the sticker on the strut-mount, it might be possible on
cars that only have interior options rather than an Individual
exterior colour. The Individual door treads (rocker covers) were an
option (at
£
100 per door), the lack of them does not mean your car
is not an Individual.
Below are a few of the Individual options:
Champagne full Nappa leather with piped seats, matching carpets, stitched dashboard and centre console
The true Sports models have a few identifying features:
•
M
-
Parallel 18" Alloys
•
Shadowline / Bodycolour exterior
•
M Steering wheel
•
Anthracite headlining (only in UK)
•
S
-
EDC (see options) or Sports suspension
•
Contour seats/Sports seats
The correct torque-converter and differential are difficult to check, the only definite method is to contact BMW Customer Services to obtain
the original specification. However, the presence of an anthracite (black) headlining is a good visual clue as these are extremely difficult to
retrofit. There are many E38's that have most of the other options that are not Sports models. Recently I looked into a method for discerning
between a 740i and a 740i Sport, the following method will ensure, at least, that the correct final-drive unit is fitted:
Use OBC hidden function 8 to display KPH; set cruise to 123KPH on a level road (the speedo will show 80MPH/128KPH as it over-reads by 4%)
Use OBC hidden function 7/2 to show RPM
A non-Sport model will show 2305 - 2310 RPM
A Sport model will show 2475 - 2480 RPM
Alternatively, without using any hidden functions:
Set the cruise so that the speedometer shows exactly 80MPH when in 5th gear. The instruments will look like this:
Inlaid wood trim Picnic tables and rear vanity mirrors Mora Metallic paintwork
The straight lower-edge of the headlights denotes a pre-facelift model
16" Turbine alloys were an option on the pre-facelift 735i's
Pre-facelift M62B35 engines retained the throttle, cruise-control and ASC cables
The standard steering wheel gives better instrument visibility compared to the Sports version
1998 pre-facelift 735i with factory-fitted standard options
Colour 303 Cosmos Black
Upholstery N6TT Grey Leather
Ordered Options
:
Alloy Wheels-Radiating
Comfort Seats+Memory
Park Distance Control
On-Board Monitor
GSM Car-Phone
Top Hi-Fi Speaker System
Standard Options:
Servotronic Steering
Remote Control Alarm
Electric Steel Sunroof
First Aid Kit & Triangle
Polished Burr Walnut Trim
Smoker Package
Headlamp Washer System
Park Distance Control
BMW Professional Radio
BMW 6 Disc CD Changer
Hi-Fi loudspeaker system
18" Multi-spoke alloys were an ordered option on the post-facelift 740i's
Amber indicators were standard on 1999 models but were of glass construction
4:3 LCD monitor and hands-free phone were options in 1999
The post-facelift M62TUB44 used an electronic throttle-body and lost all bowden cables
1999 post-facelift 740i with factory-fitted standard options
Colour: Biarritz Blue Metallic
Upholstery: Sand Beige/Dark Beige Montana Leather
Ordered Options
:
Multi-Spoke 32-8/9Jx18"
Navigation-system Professional
GSM Telephone - Fixed telephone
M Steering Wheel
Standard Options
:
Servotronic Steering
Remote Control Alarm
Electric Steel Sunroof
First Aid Kit & Triangle
Polished Burr Walnut Trim
Smoker Package
Headlamp Washer System
Park Distance Control
BMW Professional Radio
BMW 6 Disc CD Changer
Hi-Fi loudspeaker system
18" Multi-spoke alloys were an ordered option on the post-facelift 740i's
Amber indicators were standard on 1999 models but were of glass construction
4:3 LCD monitor and hands-free phone were options in 1999
Body-coloured skirts and sills were standard (except on the 728i) in 2000
The standard tailpipes are hidden behind the valence, these are after-market units (Cobra)
As an Individual option, the door cards, carpets and piping could match or complement the exterior
By late 2000, the widescreen (16:9) monitor was a popular option
The late 2000 models had a Motorola mobile rather than wired telephone and wide-screen monitor
Ordered Options:
BMW Individual Option - Burr walnut trim
Electronic Damper Control
Tyre Pressure Control
Auto Boot lid Operation
De-chroming
Climate Comfort Screen
Electric Glass Sunroof
Sunblinds for side and rear windows
BMW Individual Upholstery:
Champagne full nappa leather
Door capping & dash in black
A B C Pillars & headlining in beige
Amethyst Piping on seats
Amethyst carpets and floor mats
Voice Control System
Third 3-Point Rear Seat Belt
M Steering Wheel
Active Front Seats
Hi-Fi Sys Prof DSP
Parallel 37M-8/9.5J alloy wheels
Standard Options:
Front Centre Arm Rest
Lumbar support - front
Front Seat Heating
Headlamp Washer System
Park Distance Control
Xenon Headlamps
Radio Signal Clock
On-Board Monitor with Television
Navigation-system Professional
Prep for Motorola V50
BMW 6 Disc CD Changer
CD Preparation
Auto-Dim Int + Ext Mirror
Auto-Dim Interior Mirror
Polished Burr Walnut
Smoker Package
Comfort Seats - Electric
Elect Fr Seats + Driver memory
White Indicator Lenses
First Aid Kit & Triangle
Steptronic Paddles
Dynamic Stability Control
Servotronic Steering
Elect Steer Column Adjustment
Remote Control Alarm
Body Coloured Bumper
Late 2000 post-facelift 740i with factory-fitted Individual options and Cobra exhaust
Colour: BMW Individual Paint Special - 359 Mora Metallic
Upholstery: BMW Individual Upholstery
There are a few buying guides around for the E38 that tells you what to look out for and the common problems you may find. However, when I bought my first E38 I
didn't know what I actually wanted and what was available rather than what could go wrong. This buyer's guide tells you what is available as far as engines, exterior
and interior options, the Individual and Highline models. The common problems can be found here.
The BMW E38 7-Series are excellent cars and excellent value at the time of writing (2008 and updated in 2009). Nearly all the E38's fall outside the proposed
increase in Road Tax which affects cars built after March 2001. They are exceptionally cheap to purchase and cost little more than the standard Eurobox to keep on
the road, especially with The 7 Series Register to give you the correct advice.
However, the E38 title covers numerous cars with very different characters, from the frugal 728i through to the manic Sport Vanos 740i's and the more refined 750iL.
Over the life of the E38 there have been many changes both to the exterior and the engines with three main engine types (I-6, V8 and V12) and a number of variants
of those engines.
The E38 can be seen as having three distinct phases, initially the E38 was rolled out in 1994 with the V8 engines from the E32 series (M60). These engines were still
very new only being introduced to the E32 in 1992. The same engine-control system was used (DME 3.3) and married to the E32's 5-speed automatic gearbox.
There was a short delay before the V12 was added to the range as the M70 was re-tooled to increase the engine capacity to become the M73.
The first big changes occurred in 1996 with a complete upgrade to the V8 engines and the introduction of the I-6 engines. The V8's were increased in capacity to 3.5
Litres and 4.4 Litres for the 735i and the 740i respectively and renamed M62, the 730i model was dropped to be replaced by the 728i. The 728i was a new breed of I-
6 engine, much different from the previous M30.
The second major changes occurred in late 1998 with a complete upgrade of all the engines (except the M73 which only had minor
modifications). The 728i's M52 engine was updated to twin-Vanos and the Nikasil process was dropped. At the same time the V8's were
updated to incorporate Vanos variable valve timing to the inlet cams which increased the flatness of the torque curve and increased the peak
torque by 20Nm. The peak power was kept the same on the 740i at 286BHP, this was deliberate as to not encroach on the 750i's territory!
Not only are there differences between model years there are also major differences between the option level of some cars of the same year
and model. BMW's option list is exceptionally long and could very nearly double the original buying price of the base model. Apart from the
standard options such as Sat-Nav and television the buyer could order an 'Individual' model. Just to cause further confusion you could
purchase an Individual paint-colour with standard interior and visa-versa.
This guide is primarily for UK models, other markets get different levels of options as standard. For instance, the UK gets the Steptronic
gearbox on all models with the M52, M62 and M73 engines, whereas the USA only gets the Steptronic box on the Sports models. The way
that Sports models are defined in the UK is different to the USA.
SEARCH MEEKNET
TIMM'S BMW E38 BUYING
GUIDE
Straight 6 (M52) fitted to 728i
Pre-Facelift 1998 735i
Facelift 1999 740i
Pre-Facelift 1998 735i Post-Facelift 1999 740i Post Facelift 2000 740i
Standard seat Comfort seat Contour (Sports) seat
Centre Console/MID/On Board Monitor
There are three basic configurations for the centre console:
MID console 4:3 Monitor 16:9 Monitor
MKI and MKII MKIII MKIV
SPORTS - INDIVIDUAL - HIGHLINE MODELS
Although this car has 18" M-Parallels, M-Steering wheel, body-coloured
skirts, is de-chromed and has S-EDC, the lack of an Anthracite headlining
and Sports/Contour seats means that this is not a Sports model
NON-SPORT
SPORT
Champagne full Nappa leather with piped seats, matching carpets,
stitched dashboard and centre console
Inlaid wood trim Picnic tables and rear vanity mirrors Mora Metallic
paintwork
The straight lower-edge of the headlights denotes
a pre-facelift model
16" Turbine alloys were an option on the pre-
facelift 735i's
Pre-facelift M62B35 engines retained the throttle,
cruise-control and ASC cables
The standard steering wheel gives better instrument
visibility compared to the Sports version
1998 pre-facelift 735i with factory-fitted standard
options
Colour 303 Cosmos Black
Upholstery N6TT Grey Leather
Ordered Options
:
Alloy Wheels-Radiating
Comfort Seats+Memory
Park Distance Control
On-Board Monitor
GSM Car-Phone
Top Hi-Fi Speaker System
Standard Options:
Servotronic Steering
Remote Control Alarm
Electric Steel Sunroof
First Aid Kit & Triangle
Polished Burr Walnut Trim
Smoker Package
Headlamp Washer System
Park Distance Control
BMW Professional Radio
BMW 6 Disc CD Changer
Hi-Fi loudspeaker system
18" Multi-spoke alloys were an ordered option
on the post-facelift 740i's
Amber indicators were standard on 1999 models
but were of glass construction
4:3 LCD monitor and hands-free phone
were options in 1999
The post-facelift M62TUB44 used an electronic throttle-
body and lost all bowden cables
1999 post-facelift 740i with factory-fitted standard options
Colour: Biarritz Blue Metallic
Upholstery: Sand Beige/Dark Beige Montana Leather
Ordered Options
:
Multi-Spoke 32-8/9Jx18"
Navigation-system Professional
GSM Telephone - Fixed telephone
M Steering Wheel
Standard Options
:
Servotronic Steering
Remote Control Alarm
Electric Steel Sunroof
First Aid Kit & Triangle
Polished Burr Walnut Trim
Smoker Package
Headlamp Washer System
Park Distance Control
BMW Professional Radio
BMW 6 Disc CD Changer
Hi-Fi loudspeaker system
Body-coloured skirts and sills were standard (except on the 728i)
in 2000
The standard tailpipes are hidden behind the valence, these are
after-market units (Cobra)
As an Individual option, the door cards, carpets and piping could
match or complement the exterior
By late 2000, the widescreen (16:9) monitor was a popular option
The late 2000 models had a Motorola mobile rather than wired
telephone and wide-screen monitor
Ordered Options:
BMW Individual Option - Burr walnut trim
Electronic Damper Control
Tyre Pressure Control
Auto Boot lid Operation
De-chroming
Climate Comfort Screen
Electric Glass Sunroof
Sunblinds for side and rear windows
BMW Individual Upholstery:
Champagne full nappa leather
Door capping & dash in black
A B C Pillars & headlining in beige
Amethyst Piping on seats
Amethyst carpets and floor mats
Voice Control System
Third 3-Point Rear Seat Belt
M Steering Wheel
Active Front Seats
Hi-Fi Sys Prof DSP
Parallel 37M-8/9.5J alloy wheels
Standard Options:
Front Centre Arm Rest
Lumbar support - front
Front Seat Heating
Headlamp Washer System
Park Distance Control
Xenon Headlamps
Radio Signal Clock
On-Board Monitor with Television
Navigation-system Professional
Prep for Motorola V50
BMW 6 Disc CD Changer
CD Preparation
Auto-Dim Int + Ext Mirror
Auto-Dim Interior Mirror
Polished Burr Walnut
Smoker Package
Comfort Seats - Electric
Elect Fr Seats + Driver memory
White Indicator Lenses
First Aid Kit & Triangle
Steptronic Paddles
Dynamic Stability Control
Servotronic Steering
Elect Steer Column Adjustment
Remote Control Alarm
Body Coloured Bumper
Late 2000 post-facelift 740i with factory-fitted Individual
options and Cobra exhaust
Colour: BMW Individual Paint Special - 359 Mora
Metallic
Upholstery: BMW Individual Upholstery
There are a few buying guides around for the E38 that tells you what to look out for and
the common problems you may find. However, when I bought my first E38 I didn't know
what I actually wanted and what was available rather than what could go wrong. This
buyer's guide tells you what is available as far as engines, exterior and interior options,
the Individual and Highline models. The common problems can be found here.
The BMW E38 7-Series are excellent cars and excellent value at the time of writing
(2008 and updated in 2009). Nearly all the E38's fall outside the proposed increase in
Road Tax which affects cars built after March 2001. They are exceptionally cheap to
purchase and cost little more than the standard Eurobox to keep on the road,
especially with The 7 Series Register to give you the correct advice.
However, the E38 title covers numerous cars with very different characters, from the
frugal 728i through to the manic Sport Vanos 740i's and the more refined 750iL. Over
the life of the E38 there have been many changes both to the exterior and the engines
with three main engine types (I-6, V8 and V12) and a number of variants of those
engines.
The E38 can be seen as having three distinct phases, initially the E38 was rolled out in
1994 with the V8 engines from the E32 series (M60). These engines were still very
new only being introduced to the E32 in 1992. The same engine-control system was
used (DME 3.3) and married to the E32's 5-speed automatic gearbox. There was a
short delay before the V12 was added to the range as the M70 was re-tooled to
increase the engine capacity to become the M73.
The first big changes occurred in 1996 with a complete upgrade to the V8 engines and
the introduction of the I-6 engines. The V8's were increased in capacity to 3.5 Litres
and 4.4 Litres for the 735i and the 740i respectively and renamed M62, the 730i model
was dropped to be replaced by the 728i. The 728i was a new breed of I-6 engine,
much different from the previous M30.
The second major changes occurred in late 1998 with a complete upgrade
of all the engines (except the M73 which only had minor modifications).
The 728i's M52 engine was updated to twin-Vanos and the Nikasil process
was dropped. At the same time the V8's were updated to incorporate
Vanos variable valve timing to the inlet cams which increased the flatness
of the torque curve and increased the peak torque by 20Nm. The peak
power was kept the same on the 740i at 286BHP, this was deliberate as to
not encroach on the 750i's territory!
Not only are there differences between model years there are also major
differences between the option level of some cars of the same year and
model. BMW's option list is exceptionally long and could very nearly
double the original buying price of the base model. Apart from the
standard options such as Sat-Nav and television the buyer could order an
'Individual' model. Just to cause further confusion you could purchase an
Individual paint-colour with standard interior and visa-versa.
This guide is primarily for UK models, other markets get different levels of
options as standard. For instance, the UK gets the Steptronic gearbox on
all models with the M52, M62 and M73 engines, whereas the USA only
gets the Steptronic box on the Sports models. The way that Sports models
are defined in the UK is different to the USA.
M52TUB28 with double-Vanos fitted to a 2001 728i Sport
The smallest engine in the range is fitted to the 728i. The first version
(M52B28) was manufactured using the Nikasil process and had inlet-only
variable valve timing. However, this was a very different engine to the
older M30 fitted to the E32's. This was a light-alloy engine with twin
overhead-cams, 24 valves, sequential fuel-injection and 6 coil-over-plug
ignition units which produced 186BHP.
The early engines (1996 - 1998) proved exceptionally robust but
suffered from Vanos problems that caused an uneven idle. In September
1998 the M52TUB28 was introduced, the Nikasil process was dropped
and twin-Vanos was introduced. This provided better fuel-economy and
flattened the torque-curve which made the later models more driveable.
The 728i is not a fast car but it certainly isn't sluggish, it is quite urgent
from a standstill but starts to run out of puff quite quickly. However,
these are all relative terms expressed in comparison to the rest of the
E38 range; against the majority of cars on UK roads the 728i is pretty
fast, especially at motorway speeds where the grunt of the M52 is most
noticeable. The 728i has the lightest engine of the E38 range and that
makes this car pretty agile, even at just under two Tons in weight the
728i will embarrass most sports cars. The Sport variant is slightly
quicker due to the high stall-speed torque converter and slightly lower
final-drive ratio. It is a great cruiser and gives excellent economy
(37MPG) on long runs.
V8 (M60 and M62) fitted to 730i, 735i and 740i
M62TUB44 with electronic throttle body and twin-Vanos
All the engines in the V8 range were ahead of their time with quad
overhead-cams, 32 valves, sequential fuel-injection and 8 coil-over-plug
ignition packs. The first E38 V8's retained the engines from the E32
(M60) with the 730i and 740i having the 3.0Ltr and 4.0Ltr M60
respectively. The M60 engines were manufactured using the Nikasil
manufacturing process and command much lower resale prices in respect
to the M62 engined cars. In 2008 the 'Nikasil problem' is old news and
these engines have the same longevity as it's successor.
In 1996 the M60 engine was replaced with the M62, at the same time the
engine capacity was increased to 3.5Ltr and 4.4Ltr for the 735i and 740i
respectively. These engines were produced using the Alusil process to
harden the combustion bores. These engines are seen as more reliable
and were designated M62B35 and M62B44 with 235BHP and 286BHP. The
M62B's were powerful but the power was seen at the higher end of the
rev range making the cars a bit slow off the line but quickly making up
for it as the revs rose.
In September 1998 the M62TUB35 and M62TUB44 was introduced. These
engines were similar to the M62B's but included twin-Vanos on the inlet
camshafts. Although the BHP for the 4.4Ltr remained the same at
286BHP and the torque was increased by by a mere 20Nm, the torque-
curve was much flatter and this makes the Vanos V8's much more
driveable. The inclusion of the Vanos system also smoothed the idle and
increased economy. These changes were made during the 'facelift'
process and these cars command a higher price.
The 730i (1994-1996) has similar performance to the 728i (see above)
but uses more fuel (33MPG on motorway runs). The 735i is slightly
quicker than both, but not a great deal so as would be expected. It is a
bit quicker from the lights but the pre-facelift (non-Vanos) engines need
quite a few revs to squeeze the power out. However, in Sports mode,
once the revs hit 4000 RPM they can really shift.
The 740i is a bit more of a brute, the M60B40 engine in the early models
(1994-1996) like a few revs to achieve power but the 4 Litres certainly
give a push. The M62TUB44 fitted to the post-facelift cars (after
September 1998) are monsters and can be quite intimidating to the
unwary, they definitely need the DSC switched ON in poor conditions as
the back-end can snap out without warning. On long runs the 740i can
return a good 33 MPG, very similar returns to the 735i. The Vanos
system really makes a difference as does the temperature-mapped
thermostat that allows the engine to run hotter when cruising. The 740i
can be driven quietly and smoothly but that misses the point, if you just
like cruising get a 728i!
V12 (M73) fitted to 750i
M73B54 engine fitted to a 1998 750i
The M73 engine is hugely reliable and this is due in no small part to its
relative simplicity. While the M60, M62 and M52 have 4 valves per
cylinder and twin overhead cams per cylinder bank, the M73 retains a
single overhead cam and 2 valves per cylinder. As with the other engines
there are two variants, the M73B54 and M73TUB54, both producing
326BPH and 490Nm. Unlike the other engines the major changes
between the B and TUB variants concern the control system rather than
mechanical changes. Both variants retain the M70's twin coil-and-
distributor ignition system and if there is a weak area the ignition
system is it.
The M73 is exceptionally powerful with masses of torque and this
provides the major differences between the 740i and 750i. Whereas the
Vanos 740i is manic and very quick, the 750i is just as fast but much
more refined sounding more like a turbine than a piston engine. The
only downside to the M73 is the fuel-consumption, slightly better on the
TUB variant due to better control systems but still hardly frugal.
The 750i has very similar performance to the post-facelift 740i, it just
does it without any fuss. There is no substitute to normally aspirated
capacity and at 5400cc the 750i has a lot of it! You also get the kudos of
the V12 badge, it really is a class act.
PRE AND POST FACELIFT MODELS
Exterior
The Facelift process was started during September 1998, please note
that this is the production date and not the registration date as I have
seen many 1999 registered cars that are not Facelifted. The main
exterior changes are to the lights, front and rear.
The rear lights were originally a double-skinned plastic construction,
these crazed and leaked often filling with water that could only be
removed by drilling holes in the lenses. The 1999 models had rear
clusters that were of glass construction but still retained the amber
indicators. The 2000/2001 models are of glass construction and have
clear indicators.
Post Facelift 2000 740i
The front lights and indicators also changed during the Facelift process.
Not only did the front indicators change construction (going from plastic
to glass) but the vertical height also reduced meaning that changes were
also made to the front wings. The headlight units were remodelled
making the lower portion sculpted rather than the pre-Facelift straight
edge. The internal construction of the headlight unit remained almost
identical but conversely the front face of the lights changed from glass on
the pre-facelift to plastic on the post-facelift.
Although the rear clusters can be upgraded quite simply (they are held
on using four nuts) the front lights cannot due to the decrease in
indicator size. Replacing the headlight unit but retaining the indicators
leaves a gap between them as the facelift indicators abut inboard of the
bonnet gutter. Changes can be made to the wings to accept the facelifted
indicators in a bodyshop or by cutting pieces off the original indicator
and spraying it with the body colour. But with the exceptionally low
prices for facelifted E38's this certainly isn't economical.
Mechanics / Electronics
The facelift process also saw many changes to other parts of the E38
with a greater push towards integrating the many additions across the
model years. Major changes were made to the ABS (anti-skid braking
system)/DSC (dynamic stability control)/ASC (anti-slip control) systems
which started as separate components. On the 740i these components
were integrated into a single control unit that was fitted to the ABS
pump. The cruise control, idle valve and ASC throttle were all integrated
into the electronic throttle system (EML), the 750i had this as long ago
as 1988 on the E32. Other engine changes have been discussed in the
previous section.
INTERIOR OPTIONS
Seats
There are three basic seat types with numerous options including
ventilation, active (massaging) and heated:
The standard seats are very comfortable as would be expected, but
supply little lateral support. They can be supplied with heating but this
does not come as standard. The adjustments available are quite
sufficient in normal use.
The comfort seats have additional adjustments for lumbar (lower
back) support which can be moved both horizontally and vertically. The
back of the seat can be adjusted for rake in the upper half in respect to
the lower half.
The contour seats have the same adjustments as the comfort seats
but have additional adjustment of the thigh support which can move
horizontally away from the seat base. These seats are fitted as standard
to the Sports models and offer the greatest amount of support and
adjustment.
Heating was optional on all seat types. The active option consists of two
fluid-filled bags under the surface of the seat base. The fluid is moved
between the two bags every few seconds
and this slight unbalancing of the seat
causes the driver to shift position slightly
and reduces back stress. It is an acquired
taste and can be quite disconcerting to
the unwary.
Ventilation was also available as an
option, this keeps the seat cooler in the
summer months and is quite an unusual
addition.
The On Board Monitor is the hub for a number of options, Sat-Nav,
television, telephone and Trafficmaster, without the monitor these options
(apart from basic telephone use) are not available. A few years ago it
was financially viable to retrofit the 4:3 screen to an E38 that only had
the MID option. Presently, with the cheap availability of E38's with
monitors already fitted it isn't such a desirable prospect, especially as the
retrofit of these options is extremely complicated.
The retrofit of a 16:9 monitor in an E38 already fitted with the 4:3
monitor is much less involved. It also requires a change of the video
module (fitted in the boot) to get full use of the features. Both the 4:3
and the 16:9 monitors come in LHD and RHD versions, make sure you
get the right version for your car.
Sat-Nav
The E38 was supplied with 3 versions of Sat-Nav: MKI, MKII and MKIII.
The MKIV was only ever retrofitted but is now quite common as the
retrofit is extremely simple and the DVD-based MKIV is much faster.
The MKI was an option in the early models and had a male voice, it was
a complicated system with a head unit, GPS unit, magnetic heading unit
and an antenna. It was pretty slow and often failed to track the car's
position.
The MKII was a slightly faster and the magnetic heading sensor was
replaced with a gyro sensor that was integrated into the head unit. It still
had a separate GPS unit and antenna. The MKII was introduced around
1998 and the integration into the cars information system caused a few
problems with the complete system freezing and locking the use of any
monitor functions.
The MKIII was introduced on the 2000 models and is quicker again. The
GPS unit is integrated into the head unit and requires only an antenna to
operate. This version does not suffer from the freezing and lock-up that
the MKII did. All three versions of Sat-Nav can be brought up-to-date by
purchasing later versions of operating system and maps. When used with
the 16:9 screen the MKIII can be run in split-screen mode with directions
and map on the same screen.
The MKIV is a DVD-based system and is much faster than the previous
models. The map DVD's also cover Europe whereas the CD's used on the
earlier systems only cover one area. You can also get a bird's-eye-view
(perspective view) on the MKIV
Sport Models
Ebay is full of 'Sports' E38's but they are rarely the real thing. The true
Sports models have two items that define the marque, a high stall-speed
torque-converter and a lower-ratio differential, the correct option number
for this is S204A. These two items are extremely rarely retro-fitted
whereas the M-Parallel wheels and M steering wheel are quite often stuck
on standard models. The Sport 740i is 0.1 second faster to 62MPH than
the standard 740i but feels a lot quicker. The Sports models had a basic
price £3,900 higher than the standard model.
The true Sports models have a few identifying features:
M-Parallel 18" Alloys
Shadowline / Bodycolour exterior
M Steering wheel
Anthracite headlining (only in UK)
S-EDC (see options) or Sports suspension
Contour seats/Sports seats
The correct torque-converter and differential are difficult to check, the
only definite method is to contact BMW Customer Services to obtain the
original specification. However, the presence of an anthracite (black)
headlining is a good visual clue as these are extremely difficult to
retrofit. There are many E38's that have most of the other options that
are not Sports models. Recently I looked into a method for discerning
between a 740i and a 740i Sport, the following method will ensure, at
least, that the correct final-drive unit is fitted:
Use OBC hidden function 8 to display KPH; set cruise to 123KPH on a
level road
(the speedo will show 80MPH/128KPH as it over-reads by 4%)
Use OBC hidden function 7/2 to show RPM
A non-Sport model will show 2305 - 2310 RPM
A Sport model will show 2475 - 2480 RPM
Alternatively, without using any hidden functions:
Set the cruise so that the speedometer shows exactly 80MPH when in 5th
gear. The instruments will look like this:
Individual / Highline Models
The E32 Highline model was real head-turner with great expanses of
wood trim, picnic tables, rear vanity lights and often a refrigerator in the
rear. There was not an E38 Highline model, however the E38 option list
included most of the Highline elements including the wooden picnic
tables.
The first question is what constitutes an
Individual Model? The simple answer is a
car that was ordered with options that
could not be taken from the standard
options list. The Individual options were
more expensive than the standard options
which increases their resale value, however
as the Individual options were entirely at
the whim of the original buyer some colour
combinations were not to everyone's taste!
Click here for an example customer order.
Identifying an Individual model is quite easy as shown on the right.
There has been some discussion regarding Individual models that do not
have the sticker on the strut-mount, it might be possible on cars that
only have interior options rather than an Individual exterior colour. The
Individual door treads (rocker covers) were an option (at £100 per door),
the lack of them does not mean your car is not an Individual.
Below are a few of the Individual options:
VARIOUS STANDARD OPTIONS
There are numerous options available on the E38, some are very useful,
some are a complete waste of time, nearly all of them add value to the
car. Click here for the full list. Here is a selection of options and what they
do:
S-EDC gives variable damping to the suspension.
Whereas the standard suspension can be a little soft
and the Alpina Sports suspension tiring on bad road
surfaces, the S-EDC option automatically adjusts the
damping to suit the driving style. It can also be
switched manually to Sports Mode to stiffen the
damping. The system is quite complicated and
includes numerous acceleration sensors and
steering-angle sensors. The ride is adjusted by
electrically-controlled dampers which have three
hydraulic valves to adjust the ride in three stages. A £1,300 option it is
quite sought-after and a standard option on the Sports models. Identified
by the S-EDC button in the centre console.
PDC or Park Distance Control is a very useful
option on the large E38. It consists of four sensors
in the rear bumper and four sensors in the front
bumper that detect the distance to solid objects.
Warnings are made by sounders at the front and
rear in the interior of the car. The beeping increases
in frequency as the car gets closer ending in a
constant beep when the car is within 12" of the
object. The sensors often fail but are easily
replaced.
Hydraulic Boot. All E38's have a soft-close boot
which pulls the boot down into the locked position
and releases the lock. However, the hydraulic option
fully opens and closes the boot by remote control.
The serene glide of the lid opening when you are
still a few yards away is a joy to behold. Especially
when you are laden with shopping which can be
placed in the cavernous boot whilst the Mondeo
driver is placing his shopping in a deep puddle.
While he his lifting the dripping bags into the boot my boot is gliding back
down as I get in the car and start the engine. This is one of my favourite
options and was one of the cheapest at £390. Extremely difficult to
retrofit, if you want this option, buy a car with it fitted. Once you have
one of these you will wonder how you ever did without it. Exceptionally
high Kudos points.
Tyre-Pressure-Control (RDS). This option can be
a bit of a nuisance and really was only useful where
run-flat tyres were used. Unlike the 'Tyre Failure
System' which utilised the ABS sensors to detect a
deflated tyre, the RDS system uses a complicated
system of pressure and temperature sensors fitted
to the road-wheels complete with batteries and radio
transmitters, receivers fitted to the wheel arches
and a control unit integrated to the Check Control
system. It is very complicated. One of the problems is that the batteries
fitted to the road-wheel sensors fail after seven years which stops the
system working. A new set of sensors (the batteries cannot be replaced
separately) will cost around £300. The sensors are quite often removed
when tyres are replaced and all you get is a warning message after a
period of driving and when the ignition is switched OFF. The system often
gives the 'Check Tyre Pressures' warning when the pressures are good.
Electrically-Adjustable Steering Wheel. An
obvious part of the memory system that should
have been fitted from the start of the series. Later
models have the steering wheel lift upwards
automatically when the ignition is switched OFF.
Electrically-Folding Mirrors. If you need to park is
small spaces get a smaller car! A 7-Series should
always be parked away from other cars, although
you may find smaller cars are attracted to the safe
presence of a quality vehicle. A useless option.
Trafficmaster. The usual display is the one shown
below....expired! The Trafficmaster system is a
nationwide network of ANPR cameras that
communicate with a central control centre. The
number-plate information is used to calculate the
average speed on major trunk-roads and this data is
received by the Trafficmaster unit in your car. The
display system is extremely clunky and old-fashioned. The TMC option on
the Sat-Nav system works a lot better and comes free with the later
versions of the system. Another useless option that cost £1,300 when
originally fitted.
Electric Rear-Blind. More useful for the rear
passengers or if the car behind has not dipped their
lights and you don't have electrochromatic mirrors.
Usually supplied with manual blinds on the side
windows and quarter-lights.
Moonroof. A glass sunroof in other words. Usually
causes excessive wind-noise but does open the car
up to more light without a howling wind. I'd rather
have less noise.
Voice-Control. If you do not have Bluetooth then
this is quite useful for the telephone and a few other
functions on the Sat-Nav and 'Notebook' recording
facility. It works quite well but the commands are
not obvious and easily forgettable. Limited value but
a desirable option.
DSP Sound-System. You get 4 extra speakers on
the rear parcel shelf and a 7-band graphic-equaliser
with echo and room reverberation effects. Each of
the 14 speakers is driven by a separate amplifier
within the DSP unit and the sound-levels can get
pretty high, especially for back-seat passengers who
are seated just in front of the 4 sub-woofers. The
graphic-equaliser can be a bit fiddly to operate, especially if you are
driving at the time, but fortunately the simple 'Tone-Control' screen is
still available for broad changes in bass and treble. The sound is pretty
impressive on CD tracks that have heavy bass but the 40Hz roll-off on
the rear speakers and the 80Hz pickup on the door speakers leave gaps
in the sound spectrum. Still, it is better than the standard system and
carries high Kudos points. A desirable option.
Electrochromatic Mirrors. The interior rear-view
mirror contains two light sensors, the forward-facing
sensor measures ambient light-levels and the rear-
facing sensor measures light levels from behind.
When the rear-facing sensor measures higher light-
levels than ambient (when a car behind has not
dipped their lights) the mirror reduces its
reflectance. The control signal from the interior mirror is also routed to
the exterior mirrors which also reduce their reflectance. Compared to the
on/off nature of the older 'auto-dip' mirrors on the E32, the
electrochromatic mirrors are continually variable and work exceptionally
well. The exterior mirrors can sometimes come a cropper (as shown) but
overall this is a very useful option.
Rain-Sensitive Wipers (AIC). The BMW system
works quite well and uses a control-unit that is sited
in front of the rear-view mirror. The windscreen has
lenses bonded to the inner surface which focuses IR
light transmitted from the control unit to the outer
surface of the screen. A dry screen reflects the IR
light back to a receiver in the control unit whereas
any water on the surface of the glass scatters the rays reducing the light
seen at the receiver. The stalk-control has a sensitivity adjustment and
when working correctly the system is very effective. Unfortunately, they
quite often fail and the AIC setting just produces a 10-second interval
and no sensitivity to rain. Can be repaired by replacing the control unit
(£83) very simply.
Third 3-point Rear Seatbelt. At £100 this was a
cheap option but rarely seen and awkward to
retrofit. A very useful safety addition.
GALLERY
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