The BMW E38 7 Series, built from 1994 to 2001, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful luxury sedans ever made. Its clean, understated design has aged exceptionally well; it was one of the first European cars with factory satellite navigation; it offered a smooth V12 in the 750i/750iL; and it became a movie star as the hero car of The Transporter (2002). Today it is a modern classic.

At a glance
Production 1994–2001
Engines Inline-six, V8 (730i/735i/740i), V12 (750i), diesels in Europe
Wheelbases Standard (i) and long (iL); extra-long L7
Firsts Satellite navigation in a European car (1994), head-protection airbags
Famous role The Transporter (2002)

Design

The E38 was penned under chief designer Claus Luthe’s team and kept BMW’s traditional proportions: long hood, short overhangs and a low, wide stance. Its restraint — few lines, subtle chrome, round quad headlights under glass — is what makes it timeless, especially compared with the controversial E65 that followed.

Technology firsts

  • Satellite navigation as an option from 1994, among the first in a European car.
  • Inflatable tubular head-protection airbags (“ITS”), later common as curtain airbags.
  • Xenon headlights and self-leveling suspension on some models.
  • Double-glazed windows and electronic damper control on higher models.

V8s and V12

The V8-powered 740i and 740iL were the most popular models in the U.S. The 750iL used a 5.4-litre V12, delivering near-silent power. Long-wheelbase iL versions added rear legroom, and a rare L7 stretched version offered even more for chauffeured use. There was also an armored “Protection” version.

On screen

A black E38 735i was Frank Martin’s car in The Transporter, cementing its image as the perfect understated, fast executive sedan. It also appeared in several other films of the era.

Owning one today

Well-kept E38s are admired by enthusiasts but require care: cooling systems, electronics and V12 complexity can be expensive. Good examples are rising in value. Read the full BMW 7 Series history.