Great test Hubnut. It is rather hard to drive it without pushing that GO pedal. I am not a BMW fan at all but I do like the older ones. This one was a bargain too good to pass up. It was VERY tatty when I bought it however but I could see underneath was an original unmolested example. I think it is going to be a keeper.
@@peterriggall8409 Well done for preserving this automobile, and thanks for letting Ian drive it to show us, and remind us of the great old E23. Great video.
@@GeFeldz Back when they competed for best build quality and highest tech on their flagship autobhan cruisers. Now they seem to sell more focused on selling baby hatches and SUV's. A shadow of their West German selves.
The 70s and 80s was when Mercedes and BMW strived to build a solid and dependable vehicle that was a cut above the rest. This car is a prime embodiment of that philosophy. Now they are a company who's prime mission is to see how much money they can extract from their heritage and name with new money buyers.
I would add the 90s to that list as well, at least the first half. I think their downfall started happening in the late 90s/early 2000s. You can see it in the drop of build quality, poor engineering decisions in order to cut down on costs, and other nonsense.
I can see that with some models but the next 7 series, especially the V12 was the beginning of problematic money pit BMWs. Now just look how their values dive on the used market. They used to be known for holding their value better than other brands. Now a Toyota or Mazda hold their value better. How the mighty have fallen.
@@jamesfrench7299 The M70 V12 in the E32 7-series was actually an excellent engine; I mean it was pretty much just 2 M20s mated together, which were fantastic engines in their own right. The M73 in the E38 is actually not too bad of an engine as well- and is actually a much better motor than the V8 options for that car which were far more problematic. After those generations though- yeah, I would never touch a 7-series again.
Seems the respect for the 7 series has died. Back then choosing a 7 Series displayed you were a wealthy person with sophisticated taste in automobiles and enjoyed driving.
Dave Craig I have a 88 mod 520i M20B20 straight six and a 525tds 95 mod M51D25 straight six (also e34). I think they both sound great in their own right
A vivid early teenage memory of travelling with an uncle in one of these one very cold winter's day - suddenly the near silence was broken by a loud electronic "bong" in the cabin - the ice warning! They certainly are lovely cars.
The nostalgia right now is incredible. Until recently, I owned a 1980 735i, in alpine white, 112,500 genuine certified km on the clock - I found the e23 was more suited to highway cruising, but of course very capable of easy overtakes, and my god the sound...! Aerodynamics very typical of the period, anything above 160km/hr, and the front end would go very light indeed. Vehicle has been sold to a collector here in New Zealand.
BMW, Mercedes, and Audi from this era is pretty much automotive perfection. This E23 and the mk2 Ford Granada must've felt like the future back in 1977 when both these cars were made. Epic.
A friend of mine had, for a while, an E23 735i SE, which was the absolute top of the range in the UK, and they really were loaded for the time, with standard air con, cruise control, electric seats with adjustable lumbar support, upgraded leather interior that was unique to the SE and was very similar to the highline trim package available on later classic 6-Series, as well as a standard limited-slip diff. Unusually for a 7-Series in the UK, and pretty much uniquely for the SE, the original owner had ticked the (no cost) option box for the 5-speed manual gearbox. That car was an absolute hoot to drive, you could be a real hooligan in it and it didn't complain at all. But when you weren't doing that, it was also a wonderfully serene way to cover long distances without stress and arrive feeling like you'd just driven down to the corner shop. He bought the car, for very little money, from the owner of a 6-Series who had originally bought it to break for spares for his car, but immediately saw it was far, far too nice for that so passed it on. That, unfortunately, was the fate of a lot of 7s in the UK, the 7 was worth almost nothing while the, very similar, 6-Series was worth decent money, so a lot of good 7s got broken up for parts. Add in the fact that, like the 6, they could rust pretty badly, and the fact that a lot got bought as cheap flash by people that really didn't take any care of them, there was a time when pretty much every pub in the UK had a 7 parked outside which was the landlords old smoke, and they're now incredibly rare in the UK. The steering in these should be nearly as precise as a car with rack and pinion steering, so I suspect this example is suffering from the accumulation of a little wear in each of the many ball joints in the steering system, and they're also very sensitive to front wheel alignment, with a small level of being out of line having a very big effect on the steering feel, so a bit of attention here could make a huge difference to how the car drives. They are also very tyre-sensitive, and cars that were originally supplied with the TRX metric tyres and wheels never really feel right if they're changed over to standard wheels and, much cheaper, standard-size tyres as the cars supplied with the TRX tyres had a rather different suspension and steering set-up to make the best use of the metric tyres. Having fresh, top quality tyres does have a big effect on how they feel, with the Pirelli P6 being the top choice for non-metric shod cars. These really were one of the few large, luxury cars that really could manage the trick of seeming to shrink around you when you wanted to press on and have fun, something that the E32 also could do but which then went missing from BMWs. Now they just seem to make big cars that feel absolutely enormous when you drive them, definitely not The Ultimate Driving Machine, even if some of the M cars are still quite special...
I'm not sure how that relates to engine capacity but that sucks. Here in Netherlands with a pre-1988 petrol engined car that isn't 40 years old yet, you can opt for "quarter tariff" which means you pay only a fourth of the road tax annually with a maximum of € 120, provided you take it off the road from December until (and including) February. Over 40 years old and you pay zero tax, without usage restrictions. Insurance wise you can opt for classic car insurance, which limits to recreational and hobby use and 3000, 5000 or 7500 kms annual kilometres. Basic liability insurance only is about € 50 a year. No log books required, with the MOT mileage is recorded. (Over 30 year old MOT is bi-annual, over 50 years old need no MOT at all!)
The E23 745i was a 3.2 or 3.4 with a turbo. Or a 3.5 *without* a turbo. The E28 525e and 528e were both 2.7s. It's a relative ranking now, same as it was 40 years ago.
Yep 735i meant 3.5 litres, along with the 320, 325 & 328 meaning they were 2.0, 2.5 & 2.8 litres respectively. Same with Mercedes, back then the last two numbers meant the engine capacity, now it doesn't.
Older BMW 6’s just sounded sublime. I so miss the glorious soundtrack of my E30 325i. A real Jekyll and Hyde machine. Happy to burble along then hit 5k rpm and it turned into a wailing banshee of a motor. After the mid 90’s BMW started to loose the plot in my opinion.
They are a magnificent reminder of the days when the engineers ruled the roost in Munich, not the marketing wonks and the accountants. The rot started innocuously back in the early 90s - my second E34 had plastic exterior door handles and felt ever so slightly cheaper compared to my first E34 from 1989. The pre-cat two litre engine (M20) in that had a magnificent 'howl' from the exhaust when you gunned it! I still think their best engine was yet to come though - the all-alloy M54. Maybe you should get one of these to replace the Delica.
I owned an 1989. A great car. I had to resolder the relay boards to keep the electronics working. The digital part of the dash didn't work, but it was still a joy to own.
Older bimmers have recirculating ball steering boxer. They can give vague unprecise steering feel specially when they get worn. Newer from I believe the e30 on up use rack 'n pinion steering which usually has a bit sharper steering feel.
Thank you Ian for doing this vid! I have found memories of my fathers e23 BMW's. A late spec 728i SE and a 735i, both of 1985 vintage. Four up in the 735i, packed boot and luggage inside the passenger compartment for camping holidays!!!! I felt so special riding in that luxo barge around somerset, mid 1990's, windows down enjoying that glorious 6 cylinder purr!!! A memory above all else. My father has had a plethora of cars, but these were the most memorable times of my childhood!
One difference from the example my father had was the gearbox, its not a switchable auto with economy/sport/manual modes which was selected by a rotary knob beside thee gear lever. In which country was this car originally destined?
@@justinreynolds2235 Unlikely to be anything other than Australian-delivered. They used to come up as the big prize on the game show Sale of the Century rotated, with other BMW models, each week.
@@steved3702 Being from the UK I am not too familiar with some Australian imports. Must of been a brilliant show back in the day, I was born in 1984 but most game show cars in my youth had prizes like a blender and a spa weekend!!
Fantastic test of a great car! The butcher opposite my home bought a brand new 745i in platinum metallic, circa 1982. It was a BIGGG sexy car. The plush interior with the dark green velvet absolutely blew my mind. I cannot conceive daring to compare such a cheap second-rate and underpowered car like a Granada Mk2 to this Bayerische Magnificent Work of art. Ah, people...
Nice car. Its the straight six that makes it so addictive and weirdly combined with the smooth automatic gearbox seems even better. I'm biased I have a 2002 E46 with 2.2 24 valves. Auto. After three years I'm still smiling.
When BMW’s were mostly metal not the plastic fantastic of today love bmws of this era miss my 87’ e28 535i same motor as this e32 and my e34 525i awesome machines now have an e39 535i V8 still a solid car reliable car not game to get into a more modern bmw these old e32’s are such a beautiful car I didn’t think you liked BMW’s love your unbiased road tests as usual keep em’ coming oh that exhaust sound at the end was superb,
Just to add. Having owned Mk.1, 2 and 3 Granada Ghia's. 3.0V6 and 2.8i also a Scorpio Ultima 2.9i they didn't come close to my 735i in build quality or outright speed. IMO.
I’ve had the same my 1,2,3 Granada’s the Beamer I had was a 728i build quality was better in the bmw but the top Granada’s seemed a league above comfort etc
I still have a straight six BMW (2018 440i Coupe) but nothing beats the sound of the original “Big Six M30” (and possibly even more velvety smooth but belt driven “Small Six M20). I had a couple of M30 engined 528iAs back in the Eighties (my favourite, a Nov.’80 E12 and then a less attractive squarer backed E28 Sept.’82 model). They sounded so good and the dashboard of the E12 was gorgeous and so ahead of its time when introduced in 1972.
My boss in the late 80's had a high mileage 2.8i Granada Ghia. He upgraded to a high mileage 3.5 7 series and it was streets ahead in every way. Driving either when I was in my early 20's was pretty special.
A friend once loaned me one just like it, same color, everything. What a fantastic car...that engine note and urge. You've got me looking through the adds for one now.
@@plym1969 Lol. Not quite Philip. Worked as an Engineer in the oil fields around the world for many years, and I loved cars. Still do. An easy way to lose money. I have never made money on a car but have owned many I should have kept.
Went down hill after the E38. Elegant, smart and understated. Base engine for the M1 and the genesis of the "M" cars that followed. Lovely growly whirring sounds.
A proper classy BMW - not this postering, computerised arrogant hateful crap they flog to the Masses on finance these days. This is beautiful and timeless. Great sound too from a decent engine too. Really enjoyable video Ian!
Absaloutly brilliant video Ian. Why is it with older cars like that do they have so much character but today you can't wait to get out the bloody things
Nice review Ian. The great thing about BMW's up until around 2008 is that with maintainence and a bit of care, they willl keep going forever. The paint is so thick on them and the quality is there throughout the model range. I think that old BMWs and Mercs look elegant and classy as they get older, even the E60 5 series looks good and has bullet proof mechnicals. .
A very fine example of a great car, always fancied one and almost bought one 20 years ago. Instead I went with S class Mercs so I might be a bit biased but they don't quite ooze the class like a W126 does. The BMW always sounds more sporty though, so maybe one day I'll own one? But whoever said a Granada was a better car in nearly every aspect is definitely looking thro blue tinted oval shaped sunglasses. Not in the same class!
Thank you for the review of this first generation 7-series sedan. The e23 was a car known to handle its best past what some might feel are it’s limits. If you get your hands on this one again don’t be restrained from tossing it around a bit as the handling might surprise you. Minor things like worn Pitman arms are also known to make the steering feel less confident luckily they are a simple replacement.
A Delicious shark. A white, '79 T plate 733, very similar to that was what I got to sit in years ago with 54k kms (lhd, in kms) on the clock. So special, so rare, epitome is the word I'd use as well.
Great stuff. Good article recently in the Road Rat on how luxury barges have lost their style vs. great cars like this in the 80s. Current 7 series so big now mainly seem them in London with taxi permits in the window, back in E23 and E32 were a drivers car.
13:05 Headlights - L-R - the reflector in the LH one has seen many better days ! Light 2 - where is it pointing ? - looks decidedly upward compared with 3rd one.
I had the M535i e28, manual, it was one quick car, it would smoke both back tyres on dry tarmac. Love all these older BMW, e3 3.3Li being my favourite, such class, compare these to the new 7 with its massive clown car grille, same as all the new BMW, all crass and no claaas!
Ian, I couldn’t smash the like button quickly enough on this one. I had the same book you are referring to and remember the side profile of the green 730 cruising down a (German?) road. I’ve also got new car brochures for 733i and 320i that my parents picked up in 1978. We were in no position to buy either car in 1978 so I guess they liked to Dream a little. We were in that position by the mid 80’s and had a US spec ‘84 733i in the same color combo as your test car. Great car, but the automatic was a dog in desmogged US trim. Not so with the manual! Dad had a friend with an ‘83 5 spd. That felt much quicker. I got to drive it once and accidentally hung the tail out making a left turn through a large intersection. Fortunately, no wreck or ticket, but don’t let your teenager loose in a powerful rear drive car! Sadly our ‘84 was written off by a hard rear end collision by an uninsured driver. Thanks for another great review.
I had one of these in 2000 and went to Canada for a holiday where I was given a Ford Crown Victoria (like the police used) as a hire car for two weeks. When I arrived back at the train station where my wife picked me up in the UK in the BMW and drove it, I am sad to report it felt slow compared to the Ford. I still loved it though.
I had an 3ew and it looked much better, the of thing was it had the same power, was heavier and was 15kl/h faster via aerodynamics including a new full under tray. I sold mine as the heater servo motor were breaking off their mounts and failing to precede, one can only take cold feet and random heating for so long, it produces 218 bhp.
My Dad had one in TItanium Silver (I later owned two TiAG BMWs, an E46 M3 and an E70 X5 50i). As an 18 year old, I took the 735i out a few times without permission when my parents were out. Quite a driving experience for an 18 year old (like Steve in Stranger Things in the 733i).
Differences: Dad's was an SE, had blue velour seats, but also electric seats with memory (loads of buttons beside the handbrake), trip computer, "automatic" air con (no sliders, just buttons and a digital temperature display), an electric sunroof and a fantastic Blaupunkt New York stereo. The wood of that ashtray was a work of art, solid and beautiful.
Yes the e23 was know in its day as handling poorly. I had an e34 535i - same engine. It must be the best engine I've ever had - loved it . Very musical and performed very well. It was surprisingly economical On the open road driving @120 - 140 kph would get around 9.5 l/100. It also proved very durable:- I sold it @ 550 000km because it was showing signs of wear in the valve gear, but still not needing oil between services.
I had an e21 which was a great little car. this was the great era of BMW with their nice little fours and silky smooth sixes. On top of that thy looked great and were reliable.
I had one of these from 1997 to 2008 and I loved it. I regret selling it. one thing I always like was in the owners manual it warned against running it near redline for more than 24 hours
I have one of those in storage in New Zealand. I purchased it 28 years ago.to drive up and down the South Island. I have to agree, the steering is too slow however one you get used to the car it actually has fantastic abilities. I did consider upgrading to an E32 however when I drove one I actually preferred the old car. The instant kick down was also a brilliant feature in New Zealand for overtaking where you have to make snap decisions on when to go or not go. The brakes are a bit mushy but very powerful because they have a hydraulic servo on them.
I used to own an e36 328i automatic and that thing certainly did not hang around but the older ones seem even nicer ultimate driving machines. The MPG was a touch better than 14 at 24 to 27 though...
I had the old 3 Series auto, C reg I think, only had it as an "in-between" car, Auto, straight 6, that had the economy gauge, quite often it would dip down into the single digits.
Great cars, I had a 1986 728i in the same colour and have fond memories of how well it drove! The car you are driving is an unusual spec with non-climate control, no OBC, no switchable gearbox or electric seats. However chances are none of the extras would be working by now so maybe a blessing!
I think the switchable gearbox might have come out in the following year to this car. Although this car is compliance 1986 it was actually produced in 1985. Does not have a CAT which I think became compulsory in 1986 in Australia.
If i recall correctly, unleaded petrol and catalytic converters became compulsory in early 1986 but the fuel and some model updates (e.g.: Ford Laser/Mazda 323) came in the second half of 1985.
Man, thank you so much for this video! I've been in love with BMWs ever since my early childhood, and this one was one of my favorites back then. Although I generally love cars and driving experience as such, BMWs have always had something special about them, which I can't explain by words (except for some of the newest models). I guess it's called love at first sight :)
This car brings back memories from the late 90's. My mate Dave had one, also in white and originally belonged to an actor known for a while in a particular soap.. a lovely car. Anyway one day Dave decided to sell to a chap from London who came down to collect... 20 miles from home the cam belt snapped! Not sure what happened to the car after the phone call... This example here is very clean and tidy.. few and far between now...👍
I remember seeing this car in a previous video some time ago. Owning a 735i manual that is for sale at the moment, an e32, I will definitely love to check this one out later today!
Sharknose BMW‘s beat their successors by aesthetics imho. Recently saw a silver 735i in Frankfurt, well kept. Have not seen one for years before. And that 6cyl sound...😍😍😍😍
Thanks for video. Nice to see this car so far (from Russia). I agree with every word. Kickdown with this 3.5 feels like big wave surfing. Every time. And again, and again, and again. But usually I don’t need to use so much power. 1.5k rpm is enough for city driving
80's BMW's are timeless. Had the oppourtunity to buy one of these back in the mid 90's. Unfortunately, I was working for Rumbelows, and redundancy beckoned before I had the chance! My favourite BMW's of that era, was this 735, the 6 series (particularly the M6) and the E30 M3. I did own an E30 320 about 15 years ago. Lovely drive, although I was surprised to find no power steering! As an advocate of the Griffin, I would have said the big Senator was a better match for the Beemers than the Ford.
Nice to see one of these in good condition! The styling hearkens back to the day (mid-late-1970s) when they were "just right", no-nonsense, but a quality package. In reading numerous Road & Track issues of that era, the BMWs (fill in blank; 320i, 530i, 630CSi, 733i) of that era were their editorial staff's "go-to" cars, frequently topping lists of their comparison tests. And they seemed, as many other European cars were, ahead of the styling game, w/ proper windows and good visibility; whereas the Japanese cars of the era were getting better in reliability terms, their styling was rather a throwback to 1960s muscle cars (save for the much-beloved original series 510 Bluebird, and the Z-car).
I'll admit, pretty jealous. I don't have anyone with a first gen 7 series, heard they are very planted and surprisingly lightweight in terms of steering.
Now that's a BMW none of the big Grille nonsense they churn out now. So 80's with the check panel and that gorgeous wood trim! That bonnet catch which locks it is a nice touch!
A mate's dad had a 3.0S which was a fine car, followed by an E23 728 (carb model). This was in the 1980s. I never really took to the slab-sided looks of the E23, he offered it me for £100 but still living at home at the time, and having no £, I passed on that one. I'd have liked his 3.0S though. Does any straight-six BM sound bad? I doubt it.
My mate had a manual '81 635CSi back in the early 90s......14mpg hooning it is about right, his (albeit slightly lighter) coupe would just about top 30mpg on a long journey provided you didn't break the speed limit. That turbine-like engine meant it was all too easy to succumb to the temptation of yet another eargasm, though! I can't believe that anyone would think a Granada was a better car, mind....the Granny was streets ahead of most of the tat to come out of Dagenham over the years but it lagged WAY behind the Beemer in every respect.
I like these seven cylinder models more than the five or three cylinder variants, especially with the wind-booster and steam compressor batteries installed.
One feature I always picked up on with the second series was the protruding headlight apertures in the grill. The first series and the 6 series coupe had them recessed in the grill. I much prefer the second version. I spotted one of these in white in someone's driveway recently with no plates.
@@michaeld7409 I have a 245 and have experienced a triple downshift out of the 3 speed plus overdrive Aisan-Warner auto gearbox. Great fun, if you know to expect it. Red blocks rule!
Michael Tutty yes, that‘s lovely, you can actually control it all by the throttle, no electronic „supervision“. Mine will do no kickdowns when doing 100mph or beyond (seldom). Usually trundling about at 70-80 on long distances.
That's a lovely thing. Been a big fan of the E23 ever since neighbours got a brand new, early 733i in the 1970s and kept it for about 15 years. Piqued my interest in BMWs which were still relatively rare in those days. Not many nice E23s left now. Ideally, though, the period BM to have would be the 635CSi. And much as I like the Mk II Granada it's more in the league of the 5 series.
The last of the quality BMW,S that was a lot of money new,and its super condition. i knew a girl whos mum had one in silver very strong dependable car ,also the 0-100 kph/0-62 mph was 7.9 secs.
Lovely review and test drive. I've got a 1986 E28 535i (currently off road) and (when promted) I can agree they SHIFT. Ive got 0 to 60 in 6.9 seconds...... not bad for a (at the time) 30 year old car. Very docile driving but planted. Thank you for a great video..... as always. :) Sorry to see it's almost the last Oz one....... :(
As a PS...... 18MPG was the best I could get...... and (on kickdown acceleration) it was smiles per mile, ignore the fuel gauge disappearing. (Three 0-60 runs mean 25% of my 70 litre tank evaporated out the exhaust.)
Great test Hubnut. It is rather hard to drive it without pushing that GO pedal. I am not a BMW fan at all but I do like the older ones. This one was a bargain too good to pass up. It was VERY tatty when I bought it however but I could see underneath was an original unmolested example. I think it is going to be a keeper.
That's a very tidy car you got there!
Was very tatty when I bought it. Lot of work gone into it. I could see that there was an original car under there somewhere.
Thanks for letting me drive it. It's a credit to you.
I think I remember seeing this one for sale a while back. Well done for rescuing it and putting in the work.
@@peterriggall8409 Well done for preserving this automobile, and thanks for letting Ian drive it to show us, and remind us of the great old E23. Great video.
When BMW were really something: simple clean lines, beautiful straight six engines.
When BMW actually rivaled Mercedes in comfort, quality and engineering!
@@GeFeldz Back when they competed for best build quality and highest tech on their flagship autobhan cruisers.
Now they seem to sell more focused on selling baby hatches and SUV's. A shadow of their West German selves.
@@MrCheesywaffles ...a bit like modern day Mercedes :)
what do you think of the 733i ?
Golden age of BMW. Amazing this was 35 years ago. Interior ergonomics then was and still is exemplary. Thanks for sharing and Peter for his car 👍
The 70s and 80s was when Mercedes and BMW strived to build a solid and dependable vehicle that was a cut above the rest. This car is a prime embodiment of that philosophy.
Now they are a company who's prime mission is to see how much money they can extract from their heritage and name with new money buyers.
I would add the 90s to that list as well, at least the first half. I think their downfall started happening in the late 90s/early 2000s. You can see it in the drop of build quality, poor engineering decisions in order to cut down on costs, and other nonsense.
I can see that with some models but the next 7 series, especially the V12 was the beginning of problematic money pit BMWs.
Now just look how their values dive on the used market. They used to be known for holding their value better than other brands. Now a Toyota or Mazda hold their value better. How the mighty have fallen.
@@jamesfrench7299 The M70 V12 in the E32 7-series was actually an excellent engine; I mean it was pretty much just 2 M20s mated together, which were fantastic engines in their own right. The M73 in the E38 is actually not too bad of an engine as well- and is actually a much better motor than the V8 options for that car which were far more problematic.
After those generations though- yeah, I would never touch a 7-series again.
Seems the respect for the 7 series has died. Back then choosing a 7 Series displayed you were a wealthy person with sophisticated taste in automobiles and enjoyed driving.
Yes indeed if you chose a BMW back in those days you a, Good Taste and b' Deep Pockets
People prefer that pig X7 aka chevy tahoe wannabee which has 0 driving pleasure
I used to love the sound of 6 cylinder BMW's from the 80's/90's before they all became diesels in the 00's.
Dave Craig I have a 88 mod 520i M20B20 straight six and a 525tds 95 mod M51D25 straight six (also e34). I think they both sound great in their own right
A vivid early teenage memory of travelling with an uncle in one of these one very cold winter's day - suddenly the near silence was broken by a loud electronic "bong" in the cabin - the ice warning! They certainly are lovely cars.
The nostalgia right now is incredible. Until recently, I owned a 1980 735i, in alpine white, 112,500 genuine certified km on the clock - I found the e23 was more suited to highway cruising, but of course very capable of easy overtakes, and my god the sound...! Aerodynamics very typical of the period, anything above 160km/hr, and the front end would go very light indeed. Vehicle has been sold to a collector here in New Zealand.
Nice one! This car is from the era when BMW actually did make high quality and reliable luxury/performance cars.
BMW, Mercedes, and Audi from this era is pretty much automotive perfection. This E23 and the mk2 Ford Granada must've felt like the future back in 1977 when both these cars were made. Epic.
That unmistakable slightly gravelly sound of a BMW straight 6. No other 6 seems to sound the same.
A friend of mine had, for a while, an E23 735i SE, which was the absolute top of the range in the UK, and they really were loaded for the time, with standard air con, cruise control, electric seats with adjustable lumbar support, upgraded leather interior that was unique to the SE and was very similar to the highline trim package available on later classic 6-Series, as well as a standard limited-slip diff. Unusually for a 7-Series in the UK, and pretty much uniquely for the SE, the original owner had ticked the (no cost) option box for the 5-speed manual gearbox. That car was an absolute hoot to drive, you could be a real hooligan in it and it didn't complain at all. But when you weren't doing that, it was also a wonderfully serene way to cover long distances without stress and arrive feeling like you'd just driven down to the corner shop. He bought the car, for very little money, from the owner of a 6-Series who had originally bought it to break for spares for his car, but immediately saw it was far, far too nice for that so passed it on. That, unfortunately, was the fate of a lot of 7s in the UK, the 7 was worth almost nothing while the, very similar, 6-Series was worth decent money, so a lot of good 7s got broken up for parts. Add in the fact that, like the 6, they could rust pretty badly, and the fact that a lot got bought as cheap flash by people that really didn't take any care of them, there was a time when pretty much every pub in the UK had a 7 parked outside which was the landlords old smoke, and they're now incredibly rare in the UK. The steering in these should be nearly as precise as a car with rack and pinion steering, so I suspect this example is suffering from the accumulation of a little wear in each of the many ball joints in the steering system, and they're also very sensitive to front wheel alignment, with a small level of being out of line having a very big effect on the steering feel, so a bit of attention here could make a huge difference to how the car drives. They are also very tyre-sensitive, and cars that were originally supplied with the TRX metric tyres and wheels never really feel right if they're changed over to standard wheels and, much cheaper, standard-size tyres as the cars supplied with the TRX tyres had a rather different suspension and steering set-up to make the best use of the metric tyres. Having fresh, top quality tyres does have a big effect on how they feel, with the Pirelli P6 being the top choice for non-metric shod cars. These really were one of the few large, luxury cars that really could manage the trick of seeming to shrink around you when you wanted to press on and have fun, something that the E32 also could do but which then went missing from BMWs. Now they just seem to make big cars that feel absolutely enormous when you drive them, definitely not The Ultimate Driving Machine, even if some of the M cars are still quite special...
A BMW from days long gone, when the last two digits of the type number actually said something about engine capacity.
Robert Brink you get a concessional registration cost, but you need to keep a logbook and are limited to a certain number of drives/kms per year.
I'm not sure how that relates to engine capacity but that sucks. Here in Netherlands with a pre-1988 petrol engined car that isn't 40 years old yet, you can opt for "quarter tariff" which means you pay only a fourth of the road tax annually with a maximum of € 120, provided you take it off the road from December until (and including) February. Over 40 years old and you pay zero tax, without usage restrictions. Insurance wise you can opt for classic car insurance, which limits to recreational and hobby use and 3000, 5000 or 7500 kms annual kilometres. Basic liability insurance only is about € 50 a year. No log books required, with the MOT mileage is recorded. (Over 30 year old MOT is bi-annual, over 50 years old need no MOT at all!)
The E23 745i was a 3.2 or 3.4 with a turbo. Or a 3.5 *without* a turbo. The E28 525e and 528e were both 2.7s. It's a relative ranking now, same as it was 40 years ago.
Yep 735i meant 3.5 litres, along with the 320, 325 & 328 meaning they were 2.0, 2.5 & 2.8 litres respectively. Same with Mercedes, back then the last two numbers meant the engine capacity, now it doesn't.
@@phil955i You didn't actually bother reading my comment that shows you're wrong then?
Older BMW 6’s just sounded sublime. I so miss the glorious soundtrack of my E30 325i. A real Jekyll and Hyde machine. Happy to burble along then hit 5k rpm and it turned into a wailing banshee of a motor. After the mid 90’s BMW started to loose the plot in my opinion.
They are a magnificent reminder of the days when the engineers ruled the roost in Munich, not the marketing wonks and the accountants. The rot started innocuously back in the early 90s - my second E34 had plastic exterior door handles and felt ever so slightly cheaper compared to my first E34 from 1989. The pre-cat two litre engine (M20) in that had a magnificent 'howl' from the exhaust when you gunned it! I still think their best engine was yet to come though - the all-alloy M54. Maybe you should get one of these to replace the Delica.
I owned an 1989. A great car. I had to resolder the relay boards to keep the electronics working. The digital part of the dash didn't work, but it was still a joy to own.
Older bimmers have recirculating ball steering boxer. They can give vague unprecise steering feel specially when they get worn.
Newer from I believe the e30 on up use rack 'n pinion steering which usually has a bit sharper steering feel.
The E38/39 V8s had recirculating ball steering.
The steering box is likely needing adjustment or is plain tired. Should be very precise if all is set up right.
There is an adjustment screw on the steering box counterheld with a nut (as you adjust it).
@@bigjimWA77 I will check it out. Thanks.
Ahh, when BMW meant quality and reliability.
AGREE! Nowadays if you want reliable luxury buy a "posh Toyota" (AKA Lexus).
And rust. Haha
@@TheMentalblockrock costs less too.
@@TheMentalblockrock Give credit where it's due, a Lexus is much more than a pimped up Toyota.
two words my old bmw lacked...
Lovely Jubbly Mr HubNut. Could you really imagine a 2020 BMW in 35 years being usable, I very much doubt it.
Probably usable as a coke can
Not with all the plastic under the bonnet.
I can, but with an engine conversion or a lot of very expensive maintenence, even if kept in ideal conditons and driven very gently.
Thank you Ian for doing this vid! I have found memories of my fathers e23 BMW's. A late spec 728i SE and a 735i, both of 1985 vintage. Four up in the 735i, packed boot and luggage inside the passenger compartment for camping holidays!!!! I felt so special riding in that luxo barge around somerset, mid 1990's, windows down enjoying that glorious 6 cylinder purr!!! A memory above all else. My father has had a plethora of cars, but these were the most memorable times of my childhood!
One difference from the example my father had was the gearbox, its not a switchable auto with economy/sport/manual modes which was selected by a rotary knob beside thee gear lever. In which country was this car originally destined?
@@justinreynolds2235 Unlikely to be anything other than Australian-delivered. They used to come up as the big prize on the game show Sale of the Century rotated, with other BMW models, each week.
@@steved3702 Being from the UK I am not too familiar with some Australian imports. Must of been a brilliant show back in the day, I was born in 1984 but most game show cars in my youth had prizes like a blender and a spa weekend!!
Fantastic test of a great car! The butcher opposite my home bought a brand new 745i in platinum metallic, circa 1982. It was a BIGGG sexy car. The plush interior with the dark green velvet absolutely blew my mind. I cannot conceive daring to compare such a cheap second-rate and underpowered car like a Granada Mk2 to this Bayerische Magnificent Work of art. Ah, people...
The E23 seven is just such a beautiful combination of style, comfort and quality....
What a fantastic old beast. I agree with you classic lines yet not showy and in your face. Lovely
Nice car. Its the straight six that makes it so addictive and weirdly combined with the smooth automatic gearbox seems even better. I'm biased I have a 2002 E46 with 2.2 24 valves. Auto. After three years I'm still smiling.
When BMW’s were mostly metal not the plastic fantastic of today love bmws of this era miss my 87’ e28 535i same motor as this e32 and my e34 525i awesome machines now have an e39 535i V8 still a solid car reliable car not game to get into a more modern bmw these old e32’s are such a beautiful car I didn’t think you liked BMW’s love your unbiased road tests as usual keep em’ coming oh that exhaust sound at the end was superb,
Just to add. Having owned Mk.1, 2 and 3 Granada Ghia's. 3.0V6 and 2.8i also a Scorpio Ultima 2.9i they didn't come close to my 735i in build quality or outright speed. IMO.
I’ve had the same my 1,2,3 Granada’s the Beamer I had was a 728i build quality was better in the bmw but the top Granada’s seemed a league above comfort etc
@@rustywreck6631 Yes. My Scorpio Ultima was very comfy and refined with every electric gadget you can think of. Sold it for pennies.
No shit😂
I still have a straight six BMW (2018 440i Coupe) but nothing beats the sound of the original “Big Six M30” (and possibly even more velvety smooth but belt driven “Small Six M20). I had a couple of M30 engined 528iAs back in the Eighties (my favourite, a Nov.’80 E12 and then a less attractive squarer backed E28 Sept.’82 model). They sounded so good and the dashboard of the E12 was gorgeous and so ahead of its time when introduced in 1972.
My boss in the late 80's had a high mileage 2.8i Granada Ghia. He upgraded to a high mileage 3.5 7 series and it was streets ahead in every way. Driving either when I was in my early 20's was pretty special.
I remember seeing the TV ad for these when I was a kid, I loved the fact that it had electric headrests.
This car, and the E32 that followed, was a properly handsome design.
A friend once loaned me one just like it, same color, everything. What a fantastic car...that engine note and urge. You've got me looking through the adds for one now.
Great cars. I'm on my 3rd E23 and this time it's a 5 Speed manual. It loves going sideways when the loud peddle is engaged.
I was lucky enough to own a new one in the 80's. Loved it. Very comfy machine. A real mile eater.
Hi Allan were you a millionaire in the 80's? 😀
@@plym1969 Lol. Not quite Philip. Worked as an Engineer in the oil fields around the world for many years, and I loved cars. Still do. An easy way to lose money. I have never made money on a car but have owned many I should have kept.
If I had all the money I spent on cars ... I'd spend it on cars
Wind noise an essential speed reminder when barreling along at 180 Kph + on an Autobahn.
That last bit of road with the round about is a favorite bit of mine to open up my XR6 Turbo from time to time LOL
Went down hill after the E38. Elegant, smart and understated. Base engine for the M1 and the genesis of the "M" cars that followed. Lovely growly whirring sounds.
Ah...brings back memories when my uncle had a 733i and my friend’s dad got a new 728i...sweet rides and impressive tech for that period..:)
A proper classy BMW - not this postering, computerised arrogant hateful crap they flog to the Masses on finance these days. This is beautiful and timeless. Great sound too from a decent engine too. Really enjoyable video Ian!
You also described their owners these days.
Absaloutly brilliant video Ian. Why is it with older cars like that do they have so much character but today you can't wait to get out the bloody things
I fixed and drove a e24 m6 with m88 engine few months ago. Loved it! I just love tge styling from this time period.
Nice review Ian. The great thing about BMW's up until around 2008 is that with maintainence and a bit of care, they willl keep going forever. The paint is so thick on them and the quality is there throughout the model range. I think that old BMWs and Mercs look elegant and classy as they get older, even the E60 5 series looks good and has bullet proof mechnicals. .
A very fine example of a great car, always fancied one and almost bought one 20 years ago.
Instead I went with S class Mercs so I might be a bit biased but they don't quite ooze the class like a W126 does. The BMW always sounds more sporty though, so maybe one day I'll own one?
But whoever said a Granada was a better car in nearly every aspect is definitely looking thro blue tinted oval shaped sunglasses. Not in the same class!
Thank you for the review of this first generation 7-series sedan. The e23 was a car known to handle its best past what some might feel are it’s limits. If you get your hands on this one again don’t be restrained from tossing it around a bit as the handling might surprise you. Minor things like worn Pitman arms are also known to make the steering feel less confident luckily they are a simple replacement.
A Delicious shark. A white, '79 T plate 733, very similar to that was what I got to sit in years ago with 54k kms (lhd, in kms) on the clock. So special, so rare, epitome is the word I'd use as well.
Great stuff. Good article recently in the Road Rat on how luxury barges have lost their style vs. great cars like this in the 80s. Current 7 series so big now mainly seem them in London with taxi permits in the window, back in E23 and E32 were a drivers car.
As a boy I had the pleasure to drive with my father in a 728i manual. That thing was plenty fast as well.
one of the nicest cars I remember was an E32 730i '92 - but riding in an 2005 E65 730d did move the game on for me
13:05 Headlights - L-R - the reflector in the LH one has seen many better days ! Light 2 - where is it pointing ? - looks decidedly upward compared with 3rd one.
I had the M535i e28, manual, it was one quick car, it would smoke both back tyres on dry tarmac. Love all these older BMW, e3 3.3Li being my favourite, such class, compare these to the new 7 with its massive clown car grille, same as all the new BMW, all crass and no claaas!
I remember falling for these in the early 80s tv advert in the UK.
Ian, I couldn’t smash the like button quickly enough on this one. I had the same book you are referring to and remember the side profile of the green 730 cruising down a (German?) road. I’ve also got new car brochures for 733i and 320i that my parents picked up in 1978. We were in no position to buy either car in 1978 so I guess they liked to Dream a little. We were in that position by the mid 80’s and had a US spec ‘84 733i in the same color combo as your test car. Great car, but the automatic was a dog in desmogged US trim. Not so with the manual! Dad had a friend with an ‘83 5 spd. That felt much quicker. I got to drive it once and accidentally hung the tail out making a left turn through a large intersection. Fortunately, no wreck or ticket, but don’t let your teenager loose in a powerful rear drive car! Sadly our ‘84 was written off by a hard rear end collision by an uninsured driver. Thanks for another great review.
Same age as me. Love these, interior ahead of its time. Timeless classy styling
I had one of these in 2000 and went to Canada for a holiday where I was given a Ford Crown Victoria (like the police used) as a hire car for two weeks. When I arrived back at the train station where my wife picked me up in the UK in the BMW and drove it, I am sad to report it felt slow compared to the Ford. I still loved it though.
Now that is how I remember a proper BMW. Thank you for sharing this with us Sir 👍.
best thing about 80's cars was how the hard platic gripped self tapping screws..............used to fit the first carphones into things like this :D
ive been in an E34 535i '88 and that felt fast, something about old petrol engines, no emissions crap
I had an 3ew and it looked much better, the of thing was it had the same power, was heavier and was 15kl/h faster via aerodynamics including a new full under tray. I sold mine as the heater servo motor were breaking off their mounts and failing to precede, one can only take cold feet and random heating for so long, it produces 218 bhp.
My Dad had one in TItanium Silver (I later owned two TiAG BMWs, an E46 M3 and an E70 X5 50i). As an 18 year old, I took the 735i out a few times without permission when my parents were out. Quite a driving experience for an 18 year old (like Steve in Stranger Things in the 733i).
Differences: Dad's was an SE, had blue velour seats, but also electric seats with memory (loads of buttons beside the handbrake), trip computer, "automatic" air con (no sliders, just buttons and a digital temperature display), an electric sunroof and a fantastic Blaupunkt New York stereo. The wood of that ashtray was a work of art, solid and beautiful.
Oh, forgot to add that both of my Titanium Silver BMWs were stolen!
Yes the e23 was know in its day as handling poorly.
I had an e34 535i - same engine. It must be the best engine I've ever had - loved it . Very musical and performed very well. It was surprisingly economical
On the open road driving @120 - 140 kph would get around 9.5 l/100.
It also proved very durable:- I sold it @ 550 000km because it was showing signs of wear in the valve gear, but still not needing oil between services.
80s & 90s.... What a time to be alive!
I love this classic look of the 7 series!
I had an e21 which was a great little car. this was the great era of BMW with their nice little fours and silky smooth sixes. On top of that thy looked great and were reliable.
I drove a beemer for work and it certainly didn't inspire confidence. This though, looks more my ticket.
I had one of these from 1997 to 2008 and I loved it. I regret selling it. one thing I always like was in the owners manual it warned against running it near redline for more than 24 hours
I have one of those in storage in New Zealand. I purchased it 28 years ago.to drive up and down the South Island. I have to agree, the steering is too slow however one you get used to the car it actually has fantastic abilities. I did consider upgrading to an E32 however when I drove one I actually preferred the old car. The instant kick down was also a brilliant feature in New Zealand for overtaking where you have to make snap decisions on when to go or not go. The brakes are a bit mushy but very powerful because they have a hydraulic servo on them.
I used to own an e36 328i automatic and that thing certainly did not hang around but the older ones seem even nicer ultimate driving machines. The MPG was a touch better than 14 at 24 to 27 though...
I had the old 3 Series auto, C reg I think, only had it as an "in-between" car, Auto, straight 6, that had the economy gauge, quite often it would dip down into the single digits.
I had a 5 series 2.5 straight 6 wasn't so keen on 7 series also a 318 but it was ok. I like 5 series best tho lol think it was an x reg
Great cars, I had a 1986 728i in the same colour and have fond memories of how well it drove!
The car you are driving is an unusual spec with non-climate control, no OBC, no switchable gearbox or electric seats. However chances are none of the extras would be working by now so maybe a blessing!
I think the switchable gearbox might have come out in the following year to this car. Although this car is compliance 1986 it was actually produced in 1985. Does not have a CAT which I think became compulsory in 1986 in Australia.
If i recall correctly, unleaded petrol and catalytic converters became compulsory in early 1986 but the fuel and some model updates (e.g.: Ford Laser/Mazda 323) came in the second half of 1985.
Man, thank you so much for this video! I've been in love with BMWs ever since my early childhood, and this one was one of my favorites back then. Although I generally love cars and driving experience as such, BMWs have always had something special about them, which I can't explain by words (except for some of the newest models). I guess it's called love at first sight :)
It was and still is a marvelous legendary car
This car brings back memories from the late 90's. My mate Dave had one, also in white and originally belonged to an actor known for a while in a particular soap.. a lovely car. Anyway one day Dave decided to sell to a chap from London who came down to collect... 20 miles from home the cam belt snapped! Not sure what happened to the car after the phone call... This example here is very clean and tidy.. few and far between now...👍
Can't have been a E23, these only came with chain driven m30 engines
I remember seeing this car in a previous video some time ago. Owning a 735i manual that is for sale at the moment, an e32, I will definitely love to check this one out later today!
Really liked this one, watched it twice now. Not normally a BMW fan but I like bigger cars. Nice to know there is Hubnut options for the big car guy.
Sharknose BMW‘s beat their successors by aesthetics imho. Recently saw a silver 735i in Frankfurt, well kept. Have not seen one for years before. And that 6cyl sound...😍😍😍😍
I love old BMW's and this one is beautiful
Thanks for video. Nice to see this car so far (from Russia). I agree with every word.
Kickdown with this 3.5 feels like big wave surfing. Every time. And again, and again, and again.
But usually I don’t need to use so much power. 1.5k rpm is enough for city driving
80's BMW's are timeless. Had the oppourtunity to buy one of these back in the mid 90's. Unfortunately, I was working for Rumbelows, and redundancy beckoned before I had the chance!
My favourite BMW's of that era, was this 735, the 6 series (particularly the M6) and the E30 M3.
I did own an E30 320 about 15 years ago. Lovely drive, although I was surprised to find no power steering!
As an advocate of the Griffin, I would have said the big Senator was a better match for the Beemers than the Ford.
From when BMW made very good looking, very well made, very good to drive cars .
That sort of power I can take but I would get fined everywhere! My favourite styling series. Just gorgeous.
Yep. Hard to beat the 'subtle agression' look of BMWs of that era.
A coupe version in black simply rocks.
Nice to see one of these in good condition! The styling hearkens back to the day (mid-late-1970s) when they were "just right", no-nonsense, but a quality package. In reading numerous Road & Track issues of that era, the BMWs (fill in blank; 320i, 530i, 630CSi, 733i) of that era were their editorial staff's "go-to" cars, frequently topping lists of their comparison tests. And they seemed, as many other European cars were, ahead of the styling game, w/ proper windows and good visibility; whereas the Japanese cars of the era were getting better in reliability terms, their styling was rather a throwback to 1960s muscle cars (save for the much-beloved original series 510 Bluebird, and the Z-car).
I'll admit, pretty jealous. I don't have anyone with a first gen 7 series, heard they are very planted and surprisingly lightweight in terms of steering.
BMW pre mid 90's was so solid.
Now that's a BMW none of the big Grille nonsense they churn out now. So 80's with the check panel and that gorgeous wood trim!
That bonnet catch which locks it is a nice touch!
Absolutely Sir! My hat off to you for speaking the truth about those stupid big grilles and the senseless gimmicks. Bring back the taste and solidity.
Beautiful car, and as others have said, back when BMW had true style and class.
A mate's dad had a 3.0S which was a fine car, followed by an E23 728 (carb model). This was in the 1980s. I never really took to the slab-sided looks of the E23, he offered it me for £100 but still living at home at the time, and having no £, I passed on that one. I'd have liked his 3.0S though. Does any straight-six BM sound bad? I doubt it.
Beautiful car. My parents had one in Olive Green from new in 1986 - sadly by 2001/2002 the rust got too much and had to be scrapped.
The beauty of old cars.
I love the design of these shark nose BMWs especially the 3.0 CSL/CSI Coupes one of my favourite cars of all time
My mate had a manual '81 635CSi back in the early 90s......14mpg hooning it is about right, his (albeit slightly lighter) coupe would just about top 30mpg on a long journey provided you didn't break the speed limit. That turbine-like engine meant it was all too easy to succumb to the temptation of yet another eargasm, though! I can't believe that anyone would think a Granada was a better car, mind....the Granny was streets ahead of most of the tat to come out of Dagenham over the years but it lagged WAY behind the Beemer in every respect.
I like these seven cylinder models more than the five or three cylinder variants, especially with the wind-booster and steam compressor batteries installed.
Lol
I covered the econ gauge on my 6 cylinder auto BMW to ensure the sound outweighed the impending fuel fill up.
Quick and refined much more interesting than all big Aussie Fords he tested but I should imagine a lot more expensive to buy when new
One feature I always picked up on with the second series was the protruding headlight apertures in the grill. The first series and the 6 series coupe had them recessed in the grill. I much prefer the second version.
I spotted one of these in white in someone's driveway recently with no plates.
My dream car many years ago - the dream never materialised! 😂🤣
AI from the 80s... "The car decided that was necessary"... two gear kick-down. Marvellous.👍
My Volvo 940 decided to do a 2-gear kickdown once too. Didn‘t trigger that again ever since, he doesn‘t like that too much.
The transmission is hydraulically controlled. It does not learn, it just does what you want right now. WONDERFUL!
@@michaeld7409 I have a 245 and have experienced a triple downshift out of the 3 speed plus overdrive Aisan-Warner auto gearbox. Great fun, if you know to expect it. Red blocks rule!
Michael Tutty yes, that‘s lovely, you can actually control it all by the throttle, no electronic „supervision“. Mine will do no kickdowns when doing 100mph or beyond (seldom). Usually trundling about at 70-80 on long distances.
Michael Tutty love all rwd Volvos 😍
That's a lovely thing. Been a big fan of the E23 ever since neighbours got a brand new, early 733i in the 1970s and kept it for about 15 years. Piqued my interest in BMWs which were still relatively rare in those days. Not many nice E23s left now. Ideally, though, the period BM to have would be the 635CSi. And much as I like the Mk II Granada it's more in the league of the 5 series.
The 635CSI fetch big money all over the world I have noticed and the 735i sedans are really cheap. Seems a bit weird to me. Maybe their day will come.
Had MK2 Granny and a E32, the Bmw is in a different league to be honest !
The last of the quality BMW,S that was a lot of money new,and its super condition. i knew a girl whos mum had one in silver very strong dependable car ,also the 0-100 kph/0-62 mph was 7.9 secs.
Lovely review and test drive.
I've got a 1986 E28 535i (currently off road) and (when promted) I can agree they SHIFT. Ive got 0 to 60 in 6.9 seconds...... not bad for a (at the time) 30 year old car. Very docile driving but planted.
Thank you for a great video..... as always. :)
Sorry to see it's almost the last Oz one....... :(
As a PS...... 18MPG was the best I could get...... and (on kickdown acceleration) it was smiles per mile, ignore the fuel gauge disappearing. (Three 0-60 runs mean 25% of my 70 litre tank evaporated out the exhaust.)
Nice ride - that’s the first time I’ve seen a pressure cap on the radiator overflow bottle rather than the radiator itself.
Very common on Euro stuff.
@@HubNut Many thanks for the reply 😀