I was first introduced to BMW as a young kid by a family friend who had an '89 E32 750iL. I was blown away. He upgraded to a '97 E38 750iL in '00. I was 16 years of age with a newly-minted driving license, so naturally I wasn't allowed to take The Beast for a spin back then... but 16 years later he basically gave it to me. I had owned some interesting BMWs in the past (including an E34 M5 and an E32 Alpina B11 3.5 with a 5-speed manual -- a covert delinquent's delight), but this is The One. It NEVER gets uncomfortable and it NEVER stops being fun to drive -- hard to combine those two, but this car nails it. The seats make long journeys a pleasure. EDC means it's comfortable when you're cruising, yet capable when you're giving it stick through the corners... aided by the Pilot Sport A/S3+ rubber on staggered 18" M Parallels, but it's not too bad on the 16" Nokian Hakka R2 winters either. That engine -- the startup sound, full throttle to redline sound, 1/3 throttle at ~2200rpm (my favourite, like distant thunder)... and the smooth turbine-like thrust at any speed... otherworldly. It's even been relatively trouble-free, and it is my only car! I did the front and rear end suspension and steering bushings, radiator, expansion tank and water pump not long after I acquired it. Installed a nice Bosch S6 battery and an inverter to charge laptops between meetings and on the ferry -- the spacious and comfortable back seat makes an excellent mobile office. The previous owner had been quoted over a grand to fix the front PDC -- sorted that quickly with a new front gong speaker from the wreckers. One thing that's very nice is that parts cost for anything which isn't V12-specific is extremely reasonable. How many other V12-powered cars can you say that about? S class, Jag XJ... what else? The BMW is by far the most fun to drive of those three. DIY is not too challenging if you're patient and reasonably well-equipped with tools. Over 25,000 miles in (all of them spent grinning ear-to-ear), and I'm about to do the intake manifold gaskets (silicon repair kit, better than genuine BMW replacements) and ignition system refresh (all genuine BMW parts). By far the most expensive bit of maintenance thus far as it's all V12-specific. But compared to the timing chain guides and VANOS on the V8s? I'll take it. Computers are my business, so the complexity is fun, and with the period-correct dealer software on an old laptop, diagnosis is a dawdle. It has never even threatened to strand me, and has never failed to start up and go. I would confidently (and comfortably!) drive it across the continent and back in a heartbeat. The only downside is I have no clue how I'll ever replace it. I guess the only option would be a mint '01 750iL.
I was a chauffeur back in '97 and got to drive E38s when they were new. Bought one 17 years later at 5% of its original price and it's still perfect with very low maintenance.
That’s amazing I’ve always wondered what it would have been like driving these things back when they were new! It’s arguably more of an occasion driving them now due to them being so rare now.
I remember walking along Hatton garden in 1983 as an 18 year old,with a head full of dreams and pockets full of air. I was stunned by a brand new,bright red 735 I on an A plate. I walked around it a couple of times,taking in its majestic presence. I remember the 4 wiper blades on the round headlights,the " shark like nose" the clean design of the alloys and the slightly strange twin exit exhaust pipes . But what really got me was the interior,the Speedo and rev counter were big and round,the centre stack seemed to have a million buttons,and the seat controls (on full view,not hidden down the side of the seat) had an up and down button for the headrest😎,which was the coolest thing I have ever seen in any car.
I agree with the "built in obsolescence" comment wholeheartedly. I'm on my second e34, 5 series not a 7 series I know, but everything about the car is lovely. You don't need the new BMW dealership diagnosis computer to work on it, all the gauges and dials are analog, the inputs feel great, it's absolutely unpretentious about being a wonderful car and lets you get right down to just driving it.
My family has had two e38 740iLs over the past 18 years, we can't imagine owning something else. They are phenomenonal cars. Great looking, wonderful to drive, surprisingly sporty and economical, supremely comfortable. A surprising number of non car people also ask whether it's a new model as they've never seen anything like it.
Haha, my grandad must have been the master of the universe back in 1995. We had a 750iL in oxford green with beige Montana leather comfort seats. I was actually able to play with my 1:18 scale cars on the back seats, sitting in the footwell as it was massive, when we drove down to Italy, Lazise at Lake Garda coming from near Frankfurt, Germany. And my sister got sick from that strong leather smell during long distance drives. Even the back seats were covered with leather. It was usually an around 8 hour drive and the navigation system had to recalculate remaining mileage (or kms) constantly, as we sometimes hit 250km/h back in the day. Even in Italy if I try to remember, there was no problem to drive more than 200km/h. Good old days!
you may find this strange, but the favourite part of this car (to me) was the start up....you turn the key and you hear this "turbine like whine" as she fires into life, pure magic.....
E38 is an amazing car. Built like a tank. No depreciation remaining in 2020 - they are fully depreciated. I own a 2001 740i Sport and a 2001 740iL. I am also considering a deal on 3 facelift 750iLs, two fixers and a parts car. I am just crazy about the E38.
For me the E38 series are the best build BMW ever. I love them and are timeless. I personally own a 1999 750i and a 2000 740iL, both mint. I also own a 850i who nowadays is almost my daily car besides the V12. Every time I spend in this kind of cars, I realize that I'm in love of the analog era.
BMW must produce special editions for this model/shape 2001 and for 850 series from 90's. I love these shapes. I wish if BMW somehow can bring back these models 🤔
Jahanzeb Malik It’s a gamble they don’t know if they’ll sell well enough they could loose money that way I own a 740i With the 4.4L V8 fucking love it gave it a full exhaust and K%N intake.
I just bought one with solid service history. Pretty exited. Wife thinks I'm crazy getting something so old, but we can afford the maitnence and I've wanted one ever since sitting in one as a teen in the dealership. I still remember the smell..
BMW have always been in the Shadows of Grosse Mercedes, the Ultimate being the Pullman ...They are under rated for what they are, especially, 750il, V12 (E38) ...I have one with Double Glazed windows, really make inside conversation a pleasure ...With the Sports Button pushed down, this car is a Monster to drive and handle. I have slightly low profile tyres in the front for taking curves and corners at high speed ...it is US Specs, LHD, that I drive only in Europe for long distances: Stockholm, Sweden, Istanbul, Turkey ...Only at German Autobahn I let her loose ...effortless overtaking / passing ...one snag: it road holding ... I am used to Lotus, SAAB, Volvo Cross Country and Morgan ...yes, it is a great great car ...
When I was a youngster I used to have a 97 740i with the 4.4 V8. I loved that car so Much. I was surprised that you said you aren’t let out of the junctions :) it’s the only bmw I owned apart from my older e32 where people let me out. People treated me awfully when I drove my various 3 series models :).
I have a 735il with 325,000kms and it's still in brilliant condition. I paid $1500au. It was abandoned at a wreckers and was way too good to not purchase. Even if I spend $5000 getting it back on the road I think it will be worth it. My all time favourite car
You don't get the BMW thing until you've owned one. They are truly "the ultimate driving machine". I own a 1995 E36 318i saloon and I'm hankering after an E39 or E38. The smiles per gallon makes it all worthwhile.
I bought 1993 740iL about 8 years ago with 280 000kms kms on the clock. With an additional 80,000kms it still looks and goes like new I've spent about $35,000 Australian including purchase price. What new car could you buy for that? With that much style ! Driving roughly to the speed limits, the on board computer tells me the 4 litre V8 is drinking 9. 8 litres per 100 kms. Amazing efficiency. I'm in love with 'Trudi', an appropriate name for a powerful fraulein.
I have a 96 740, always wish it was the v12 because I think BMW created the e38 as the 750 and every other model was a compromise. Saying that I do love the 740, the only real deficiency is a slight lack of torque in some situations which sport mode solves. I have owned mine for 17 years now and it has 220k miles on it. It has had no real problems at all over the past 17 years. However it does eat suspension components. As you said they are cheap to replace. At 6900 pounds 17 years ago I think it was a good buy. After replacing the idler arm in the steering it drives like a new car.. until the next joint wears..
As far as I'm concerned, it's the best looking Saloon car ever made. It's so cool that you'd expect it to have come from an Italian designer's pen. I've only driven the 2.8, which was somewhat slower than my lightly modded V6 Cavalier (Ascona in EU)
I also have a soft spot for luxury saloons that waft around. The E38 BMW 7 Series was always a great shape and luxurious inside. I tried buying one a few years back but was put off by the insurance and maintenance costs (so went with a Range Rover instead)
@@TheCarGuysTV the very same car is on my shopping list this year! Currently I drive a spotless E39 530d Touring in mint condition with fully spec! Amazing luxury car too, kind of low cost 750i for every day use 🙏❤️
You are dead on in every aspect of this Vid. I recently Got a '96 E38 740 and I love the Look, the Feel and just driving it. 100% dead on that they just love to eat up the road and the ridiculously low RPMs at 70 MPH. Other Cars struggle and the E38 just says more, please!! You've got to watch out for the low mileage ones that haven't been driven much and have just deteriorated and the owner doesn't keep records. I walked away from an '01 740 that had no records, oil leaks everywhere, serious engine codes and a ridiculously high price for that condition. You can easily restore everything on the car that is cosmetic. Mine had 337k miles on it when I purchased it however had a completely new engine and tranny with 50k miles. I have no leaks anywhere and the mechanic that alerted me to it was amazed at the condition. So if you are interested in one don't shy away from high mileage ones that have been maintained. DO shy away from low mileage ones that have engine and tranny problems. Last of the Greats by BMW as you mentioned before they became too computerized - Read $$$$ expensive to fix. Most things on this car are DIY Best thing of all I have an awesome car that is inexpensive to insure and I paid cash that would be a new down payment on a new Camry for so ZERO Car payments!
The E39 5 Series borrowed a lot of stuff from the E38. I ran a 2000 528i for a few years. Very reliable. Not as refined as a 750i, nor as rapid, but it did manage 36 MPG most of the time. Completely agree re parts and servicing costs as well. No where near the rip off that they're said to be. I suspect most people who say they're pricey to run have never actually owned a BMW.
@@TheCarGuysTV Strangely the concept of a V12 appeals more than that of a V8. A straight six engine is inherently in perfect primary and secondary harmonic balance. No need for balancer shafts etc. So what could be better than a pair of straight six engines mated together? The only 7 Series I've recently driven is the four cylinder 2.0 litre diesel one. It's very very impressive and is likely to be the choice of freelance chauffeurs etc. You don't really need anything else. But, if I had the money, err, yeah. You know the rest . . .. :D
i had 1 of these a few years back,well about 10 years ago to be more precise ! i paid £150 for it, no mot or tax, i put it on fleabay for spares or repair, a guy from scotland who owned a garage bought it, i think it sold for between £300 -£400, but i cant remember exactly, the transaction went ahead, he came down by train with A new MOT on it and a tax disc in his hand, remember, the car was sold for spares or repair and advertised with NO MOT ! he had obviously written his own mot out from HIS garage, insured it and taxed it, he called me the next day, it had got him back to bonnie scotland and never missed a beat, oh how times have changed.....
V12’s reminds one of a diesel electric locomotive, there is not a real push you back in the seat feel just a steady build of speed until you engage the limiter. They are deceptively quick. That is unless you get an 850 CSI. That is a beast of a different color. There you have a tiger by the tail. With nearly 400 hp available and a more aggressive mapping, punch it and get slammed back in the seat.
Straight-up, you're currently my favourite car v'loggers (and that's up against Harry Metcalfe and Chris Harris). This review reminds me fondly of my E34 M5. I wish I'd never sold it - I can't even remember why I did. I can FEEL in this review your affection; that you drove this every day to/from the office and irrevocably bonded with it - just like I did......thats what good cars are all about.
I remember these as I bought a 1997 gold one with beige interior; not as gaudy as it sounds. That went through auction 3 times, because Tesco, who had company cars back then, could not accept the value loss; turned out it was Ian MacLaurin, Baron MacLaurin of Knebworth company car, when he was chairman. The spec was insane, even had a TV in it, unheard of back then. After it cost me my license for a month, after a chase with a boy racer, who later transpired to be an unmarked police car............ I stopped using it for about 6 months and just used the R Rover. I gave it another shot, maybe a year or so, then sold it for about 60% of what I paid. I would not touch a BMW by that time, the whole range were becoming horrible, so I moved over to an S55 AMG, and have always had a 55 or 65 since that time - currently both!! One of those may go for a DBX, I'm liking the look of those so far and their Merc engines are bullet proof, unlike MB electronics......... Some of your vids I like, nice work, keep it up.
Every one says ive got the nicest E38 but no . I have the nicest 728i in green with green interior its mad so perfect it was in a show room for a year .Its a crazy car not one scratch .its not for sale yet end of this year maybe .full bmw service history . manchester , Around 4 000 i have the bill of sale £44.000 new .Andf mine comes with a prive plate BSZ ???? and my car has everything this car has ,except the blind . you canot hear my car it ticks .I orgasm every time i put the key in my ignition .
The mid 80s to late 90s BMW made fantastic cars. Styling was awesome, interiors solid and comfortable, Drivers car philosophy. Sadly Bangle and the board at BMW took the original ethos and put it in the bin. What they came up with was an abomination from which they have never fully recovered.
marcus copley The e46 was a product of the early 2000s and still a mighty fine car, don’t understand why they made such a beautiful 3 series but mess up the 7.
Ike N Thank you for your informative reply. I didn’t know much about BMW’s history. But if I’m not mistaken, you say the E39 and E34 received bad reception from the media? And that that’s why they let Chris Bangle loose. The public loved the cars, right? I’m from 2000, so I didn’t exist during BMW’s prime and know little of what went on in that era.
Ike N Do you think BMW would be completely different if he became CEO? Even nowadays? Seeing as BMW has to conform to trends like the pops and bangs, smoky headlights, 4 cyls, but they still make some passionate driver cars like the M2.
Very nice review. Well done. I have NEVER seen a E38 with that lovely navy interior. Superb. Only once, did I see an E32 735iL with navy (Ultramarine) interior. What is the knob and button under the driver's side heated seat knob? "TM?" Never seen it before. Aside from the brochures, I've never seen the seat bottoms so nicely padded still - often they are horribly flattened with age. Strongly considering purchasing a E38 750iL in my area soon. Wanted a 750 since 1989. Maybe it's time. And yes, so many scare and warn people to stay away - hence why they are virtually all gone. I've heard the V-12s and their transmissions are more reliable than their V-8 counterparts.
Thanks. TM is TrafficMaster, an ancient version of the traffic levels you get on modern sat navs and smartphones. This car only had 24k miles when I got it, hence the good condition of the seats. I've had three 750s now - I love 'em.
@@TheCarGuysTV Thanks. Interesting. 3 750s? Wow. All E38s? Any 740s or do you prefer the 750s? So many scare people away from these cars. I am in the midst of considering purchasing a `98 750iL w/ 113K. Any other tips or motivation?
I've had 3 750's, one mint '95, another '95, a really rough one but it went like stink, and I can therefore answer the question how fast they are un-limited, mine did 275 km/h with relative ease on GPS, sure it took a while but she got there. My last one was one of 1032 made short wheelbase facelifts for LHD Europe markets. M-sport package on that aswell, which made it 1/81 made. I miss that one and have been trying to but it back for 5 years.... To be honest even my M5 had nothing on the 750, except pace obvs.
Great video mate.. I'm in love with this car.. I mean who cares about a smile or a "thank you"... as long as you are driving a classic BMW people will get off your way.. because you are a GERMAN now.. 🇩🇪
Lol, right me too i have a 2001 740i M sport and i just spend almost $7000 ( seven thousands dollars) to replace all the major components in the V8 engine.
I have owned a 750IL 1999. And that is not cheap. Spark plugs are three times more expensive then regular ones, plus it is 3 times more of them then in «regual» cars. S EDC shocks..... soooo expensive... ended up selling the car because of the running costs....
Thank you for posting cars with a great sense of character and prestige in a world that´s giving up on sedans and welcoming the suvs or crossovers wich I don´t really like that much, suvs are not designed to ride on city streets but mountains, so throw me a great sedan and I´m riding! ;) one of my fav ones is also the Mercedes S Class from the 90s Have a great day!
Great! on soprts cars one that took my attention was the McLaren 570 GT, and I´m not into sports cars, I´m quite practical guy who loves sedans and wagons! ;)
Thanks, Supercarsofthesouth . Perhaps not the most exciting video ever - but we CarGuys like all sorts of cars - supercars, classics and the quirky stuff. This is the latter I reckon.
I think it’s good to not just focus on the fanciest and most expensive so then your reaching out to a rider range of audience, I have recently started making videos on newer more sensible cars and I enjoy it,
I agree. Our aim with this channel was to feature a wide variety of cars - anything that interests us, basically. And that's a weird list. Yes there will be supercars, as they form the bulk of my collection, but I'm also moving into classics - and I'm very impulsive - so you never know what's going to turn up
Can you get hold of an R129 SL60/ SL73 and review that , If you like 90 S luxury tanks on acid that's about the daddy . Not sure there is even a SL73 in the UK to be honest .
Great show would be an intersting review , think you'll just about get hold of a SL60 if your lucky, been the bored out V8 to 6.0L by AMG. rumour has it Merc down played the BHP figures as not to over shadow the SL600 , lighter engine but still at tank , maybe dyno to put it to rest. Can't beat hearing the door shut on an R129 the last true built Mercedes before the bankers accounts took over. Not sure they even made a UK spec SL73 would be rare as rocking horse s--! Apparently there is only one SL73 made with the steering wheel on the correct side and is based in the UK. forums.mbclub.co.uk/threads/another-sl60.115174/
Superb video ! I owned nearly the exact same car ( a 750il, long wheelbase, e38 ). Best car for daily / regular / family / long distance use I have ever owned. Ran it for 10 years from 20,000 miles when i bought it thru well over 100,000 miles. Then sold it (idiot) and bought a Mercedes S600L which only kept my attention for less than a year. Would buy another 750 in a heartbeat if I could find a sub 50k miles one ( is yours for sale ? ) I have now owned an F355 GTB for 8 years and notice from your video with STG that you have a GTS. Whilst your one of course is a soft-top (aka not a proper one LOL) I would love to see a video of it and your opinions & experiences of ownership { pretty please }. Will tune in to catch that if you can put it together.
Hi Mike, thanks for the feedback. I’m afraid my 750 isn’t for sale - it’s my third and the best yet. My 355 is the full Spider not the GTS and I am most definitely doing a video on it soon.
Never a smile ??? In the contrary, over one year I get an average of two dozens of compliments and never less than ten people asking me if they can purchase the car (driving on the continent, though).
Not really. My first one had 112,000 miles (160,000km) and it was fine. As long as you take care of the rubber suspension bits and ensure it is properly serviced. Service history is more important, because we are talking about a complex V12 engine - that has to be kept tip-top.
TheCarGuys.TV ok thanks. I plan on doing everything suspension, engine etc. Because I want it to be like a new car. Cause I’m not going to sell it. 750 for life😃😅.
you need to take this to s proper tuning shop and see what they can do with the ecu, I would bet they can get it preforming just a bit better than it already does..
thelocustemperor I had thought of this - maybe take it to someone like Munich Legends and get all the suspension rubbers upgraded, but most importantly the brakes.
I didn’t think anyone would be interested in this when I shot it, but it’s been extremely popular. There will definitely be more vids like this - have no fear
TheCarGuys.TV my grandfather has one of these he brought it from new meaning he could obviously spec it how he wanted and has done over 200,000 miles in it he absolutely loves it and I don’t think will ever sell it
If anyone is interested about these beautiful cars yee should check out m539 restorations on RUclips, he buys broken bmw 's and restores them. One of his projects was a stunning e38. One of my favourite RUclips channels, its brilliant 👌
I was first introduced to BMW as a young kid by a family friend who had an '89 E32 750iL. I was blown away. He upgraded to a '97 E38 750iL in '00. I was 16 years of age with a newly-minted driving license, so naturally I wasn't allowed to take The Beast for a spin back then... but 16 years later he basically gave it to me. I had owned some interesting BMWs in the past (including an E34 M5 and an E32 Alpina B11 3.5 with a 5-speed manual -- a covert delinquent's delight), but this is The One. It NEVER gets uncomfortable and it NEVER stops being fun to drive -- hard to combine those two, but this car nails it. The seats make long journeys a pleasure. EDC means it's comfortable when you're cruising, yet capable when you're giving it stick through the corners... aided by the Pilot Sport A/S3+ rubber on staggered 18" M Parallels, but it's not too bad on the 16" Nokian Hakka R2 winters either. That engine -- the startup sound, full throttle to redline sound, 1/3 throttle at ~2200rpm (my favourite, like distant thunder)... and the smooth turbine-like thrust at any speed... otherworldly. It's even been relatively trouble-free, and it is my only car! I did the front and rear end suspension and steering bushings, radiator, expansion tank and water pump not long after I acquired it. Installed a nice Bosch S6 battery and an inverter to charge laptops between meetings and on the ferry -- the spacious and comfortable back seat makes an excellent mobile office. The previous owner had been quoted over a grand to fix the front PDC -- sorted that quickly with a new front gong speaker from the wreckers. One thing that's very nice is that parts cost for anything which isn't V12-specific is extremely reasonable. How many other V12-powered cars can you say that about? S class, Jag XJ... what else? The BMW is by far the most fun to drive of those three. DIY is not too challenging if you're patient and reasonably well-equipped with tools. Over 25,000 miles in (all of them spent grinning ear-to-ear), and I'm about to do the intake manifold gaskets (silicon repair kit, better than genuine BMW replacements) and ignition system refresh (all genuine BMW parts). By far the most expensive bit of maintenance thus far as it's all V12-specific. But compared to the timing chain guides and VANOS on the V8s? I'll take it. Computers are my business, so the complexity is fun, and with the period-correct dealer software on an old laptop, diagnosis is a dawdle. It has never even threatened to strand me, and has never failed to start up and go. I would confidently (and comfortably!) drive it across the continent and back in a heartbeat. The only downside is I have no clue how I'll ever replace it. I guess the only option would be a mint '01 750iL.
Jeff Cullen Fantastic to hear this, thanks Jeff
Tomorrow ill get it. No more comments. Thanks.
You are correct, sir. The only replacement is a nice 2001 750iL. There is no other substitute.
I was a chauffeur back in '97 and got to drive E38s when they were new. Bought one 17 years later at 5% of its original price and it's still perfect with very low maintenance.
My second 750 was an ex-chauffeur car - you could tell by the ridges on the steering wheel from his driving gloves.
That’s amazing I’ve always wondered what it would have been like driving these things back when they were new! It’s arguably more of an occasion driving them now due to them being so rare now.
I remember walking along Hatton garden in 1983 as an 18 year old,with a head full of dreams and pockets full of air.
I was stunned by a brand new,bright red 735 I on an A plate.
I walked around it a couple of times,taking in its majestic presence. I remember the 4 wiper blades on the round headlights,the " shark like nose" the clean design of the alloys and the slightly strange twin exit exhaust pipes .
But what really got me was the interior,the Speedo and rev counter were big and round,the centre stack seemed to have a million buttons,and the seat controls (on full view,not hidden down the side of the seat) had an up and down button for the headrest😎,which was the coolest thing I have ever seen in any car.
Great story - we all remember the car that made a big impression as children
I agree with the "built in obsolescence" comment wholeheartedly. I'm on my second e34, 5 series not a 7 series I know, but everything about the car is lovely. You don't need the new BMW dealership diagnosis computer to work on it, all the gauges and dials are analog, the inputs feel great, it's absolutely unpretentious about being a wonderful car and lets you get right down to just driving it.
My family has had two e38 740iLs over the past 18 years, we can't imagine owning something else. They are phenomenonal cars. Great looking, wonderful to drive, surprisingly sporty and economical, supremely comfortable. A surprising number of non car people also ask whether it's a new model as they've never seen anything like it.
One of my all-time fav cars, so glad you agree and enjoyed the episode
You know they really are car guys when they’re rich enough to have all the super nonsense but still yearn for cars that are just cool
Thanks for that, S G . We really appreciate that
Bimmers from the 80s-90s are the real deal, fun to drive everyday =)
Haha, my grandad must have been the master of the universe back in 1995. We had a 750iL in oxford green with beige Montana leather comfort seats. I was actually able to play with my 1:18 scale cars on the back seats, sitting in the footwell as it was massive, when we drove down to Italy, Lazise at Lake Garda coming from near Frankfurt, Germany. And my sister got sick from that strong leather smell during long distance drives. Even the back seats were covered with leather. It was usually an around 8 hour drive and the navigation system had to recalculate remaining mileage (or kms) constantly, as we sometimes hit 250km/h back in the day. Even in Italy if I try to remember, there was no problem to drive more than 200km/h. Good old days!
KING.OF.THE.WORLD
you may find this strange, but the favourite part of this car (to me) was the start up....you turn the key and you hear this "turbine like whine" as she fires into life, pure magic.....
I do find that strange
Brilliant cars the old BMWs. Before they went all computerised.
Absolutely
E38 is an amazing car. Built like a tank. No depreciation remaining in 2020 - they are fully depreciated. I own a 2001 740i Sport and a 2001 740iL. I am also considering a deal on 3 facelift 750iLs, two fixers and a parts car. I am just crazy about the E38.
For me the E38 series are the best build BMW ever. I love them and are timeless. I personally own a 1999 750i and a 2000 740iL, both mint. I also own a 850i who nowadays is almost my daily car besides the V12. Every time I spend in this kind of cars, I realize that I'm in love of the analog era.
BMW must produce special editions for this model/shape 2001 and for 850 series from 90's. I love these shapes. I wish if BMW somehow can bring back these models 🤔
I too wish
Jahanzeb Malik It’s a gamble they don’t know if they’ll sell well enough they could loose money that way I own a 740i With the 4.4L V8 fucking love it gave it a full exhaust and K%N intake.
I just bought one with solid service history. Pretty exited. Wife thinks I'm crazy getting something so old, but we can afford the maitnence and I've wanted one ever since sitting in one as a teen in the dealership. I still remember the smell..
Congratulations - tell us how you get on. Welcome to the E38 club
BMW E38 and E32 best 7 series ever ... I would never wanted something else than this sample of 750i
BMW have always been in the Shadows of Grosse Mercedes, the Ultimate being the Pullman ...They are under rated for what they are, especially, 750il, V12 (E38) ...I have one with Double Glazed windows, really make inside conversation a pleasure ...With the Sports Button pushed down, this car is a Monster to drive and handle. I have slightly low profile tyres in the front for taking curves and corners at high speed ...it is US Specs, LHD, that I drive only in Europe for long distances: Stockholm, Sweden, Istanbul, Turkey ...Only at German Autobahn I let her loose ...effortless overtaking / passing ...one snag: it road holding ... I am used to Lotus, SAAB, Volvo Cross Country and Morgan ...yes, it is a great great car ...
When this car was approaching you slowly, you knew that you were in trouble. The first half of the 90s was the pinnacle. Btw, the tape is a must!
When I was a youngster I used to have a 97 740i with the 4.4 V8. I loved that car so Much. I was surprised that you said you aren’t let out of the junctions :) it’s the only bmw I owned apart from my older e32 where people let me out. People treated me awfully when I drove my various 3 series models :).
this is my dream car. currently have e46 sedan but one day i ll get one of those e38 v12 7-series :))
I have a 735il with 325,000kms and it's still in brilliant condition. I paid $1500au. It was abandoned at a wreckers and was way too good to not purchase. Even if I spend $5000 getting it back on the road I think it will be worth it. My all time favourite car
👏👏
You don't get the BMW thing until you've owned one. They are truly "the ultimate driving machine". I own a 1995 E36 318i saloon and I'm hankering after an E39 or E38. The smiles per gallon makes it all worthwhile.
STUNNING * MY FAVOURITE 7 SERIES EVER-OWNED A 728I 1999 MODEL--V12 ON MY BUCKET LIST FOR 2024
I bought 1993 740iL about 8 years ago with 280 000kms kms on the clock. With an additional 80,000kms it still looks and goes like new
I've spent about $35,000 Australian including purchase price. What new car could you buy for that? With that much style ! Driving roughly to the speed limits, the on board computer tells me the 4 litre V8 is drinking 9. 8 litres per 100 kms. Amazing efficiency. I'm in love with 'Trudi', an appropriate name for a powerful fraulein.
I have a 96 740, always wish it was the v12 because I think BMW created the e38 as the 750 and every other model was a compromise.
Saying that I do love the 740, the only real deficiency is a slight lack of torque in some situations which sport mode solves.
I have owned mine for 17 years now and it has 220k miles on it. It has had no real problems at all over the past 17 years. However it does eat suspension components. As you said they are cheap to replace. At 6900 pounds 17 years ago I think it was a good buy.
After replacing the idler arm in the steering it drives like a new car.. until the next joint wears..
I got a mint condition1998 740il and it is nice, Rides like a dream with good power, BMW makes great cars, the 7 series are exceptional cars
5.4l, and 322-326hp! underrated engine. they're making near 400 at the flywheel with a re-tune.
supra1722
What kinda tuning?
@@benson1608 mclaren f1 tuning he talks crap
I had two 740s of that era, beautiful to look at and great to drive.
No question. And better fuel economy than V12 750
i have one that engine is a real gem !
Back when BWM's look supremely elegant, one of the most handsome looking BMW saloons at the time I think - the proportions are just right!
Totally agree
Another great video of interest Damian, well done!
As far as I'm concerned, it's the best looking Saloon car ever made. It's so cool that you'd expect it to have come from an Italian designer's pen. I've only driven the 2.8, which was somewhat slower than my lightly modded V6 Cavalier (Ascona in EU)
I agree - it’s just so sharp. I’d definitely avoid the 728 - this car needs an enormous engine
I also have a soft spot for luxury saloons that waft around. The E38 BMW 7 Series was always a great shape and luxurious inside. I tried buying one a few years back but was put off by the insurance and maintenance costs (so went with a Range Rover instead)
Thanks for your great video! Regards from Austria!
Glad you enjoyed it 👍🏻
@@TheCarGuysTV the very same car is on my shopping list this year! Currently I drive a spotless E39 530d Touring in mint condition with fully spec! Amazing luxury car too, kind of low cost 750i for every day use 🙏❤️
You are dead on in every aspect of this Vid. I recently Got a '96 E38 740 and I love the Look, the Feel and just driving it. 100% dead on that they just love to eat up the road and the ridiculously low RPMs at 70 MPH. Other Cars struggle and the E38 just says more, please!! You've got to watch out for the low mileage ones that haven't been driven much and have just deteriorated and the owner doesn't keep records. I walked away from an '01 740 that had no records, oil leaks everywhere, serious engine codes and a ridiculously high price for that condition.
You can easily restore everything on the car that is cosmetic. Mine had 337k miles on it when I purchased it however had a completely new engine and tranny with 50k miles. I have no leaks anywhere and the mechanic that alerted me to it was amazed at the condition. So if you are interested in one don't shy away from high mileage ones that have been maintained. DO shy away from low mileage ones that have engine and tranny problems.
Last of the Greats by BMW as you mentioned before they became too computerized - Read $$$$ expensive to fix. Most things on this car are DIY
Best thing of all I have an awesome car that is inexpensive to insure and I paid cash that would be a new down payment on a new Camry for so ZERO Car payments!
I do like the FACELIFT 750iL when everything WORKS. Very RARE. Very cool. Very executive. Deep pockets to run though.
Is this your personal experience?
Oh My God......What a gem right here, this 7 series is MINT MINT MINT! Gorgeous Car, thanks for sharing mate this made my day :)
You’re welcome
What a great review! My favorite channel!
Thank you very much, Dário. Welcome to the channel
1:21 I’m a proud BMW owner and know what you are saying. Currently an E39 540i but getting a 750iL E38.
Good man
The E39 5 Series borrowed a lot of stuff from the E38. I ran a 2000 528i for a few years. Very reliable. Not as refined as a 750i, nor as rapid, but it did manage 36 MPG most of the time. Completely agree re parts and servicing costs as well. No where near the rip off that they're said to be. I suspect most people who say they're pricey to run have never actually owned a BMW.
Glad you enjoyed it, Paul
@@TheCarGuysTV Strangely the concept of a V12 appeals more than that of a V8. A straight six engine is inherently in perfect primary and secondary harmonic balance. No need for balancer shafts etc. So what could be better than a pair of straight six engines mated together? The only 7 Series I've recently driven is the four cylinder 2.0 litre diesel one. It's very very impressive and is likely to be the choice of freelance chauffeurs etc. You don't really need anything else. But, if I had the money, err, yeah. You know the rest . . .. :D
Just got my first e38 and i love it
i had 1 of these a few years back,well about 10 years ago to be more precise ! i paid £150 for it, no mot or tax, i put it on fleabay for spares or repair, a guy from scotland who owned a garage bought it, i think it sold for between £300 -£400, but i cant remember exactly, the transaction went ahead, he came down by train with A new MOT on it and a tax disc in his hand, remember, the car was sold for spares or repair and advertised with NO MOT ! he had obviously written his own mot out from HIS garage, insured it and taxed it, he called me the next day, it had got him back to bonnie scotland and never missed a beat, oh how times have changed.....
t5jerry And it’s probably still going
Love it I'd like to see more 7 series in the future if possible
We shall see
V12’s reminds one of a diesel electric locomotive, there is not a real push you back in the seat feel just a steady build of speed until you engage the limiter. They are deceptively quick. That is unless you get an 850 CSI. That is a beast of a different color. There you have a tiger by the tail. With nearly 400 hp available and a more aggressive mapping, punch it and get slammed back in the seat.
Straight-up, you're currently my favourite car v'loggers (and that's up against Harry Metcalfe and Chris Harris).
This review reminds me fondly of my E34 M5. I wish I'd never sold it - I can't even remember why I did. I can FEEL in this review your affection; that you drove this every day to/from the office and irrevocably bonded with it - just like I did......thats what good cars are all about.
Very nice of you to say, Mark
I remember these as I bought a 1997 gold one with beige interior; not as gaudy as it sounds.
That went through auction 3 times, because Tesco, who had company cars back then, could not accept the value loss;
turned out it was Ian MacLaurin, Baron MacLaurin of Knebworth company car, when he was chairman. The spec was insane, even had a TV in it, unheard of back then.
After it cost me my license for a month, after a chase with a boy racer, who later transpired to be an unmarked police car............
I stopped using it for about 6 months and just used the R Rover. I gave it another shot, maybe a year or so, then sold it for about 60% of what I paid.
I would not touch a BMW by that time, the whole range were becoming horrible, so I moved over to an S55 AMG, and have always had a 55 or 65 since that time - currently both!!
One of those may go for a DBX, I'm liking the look of those so far and their Merc engines are bullet proof, unlike MB electronics.........
Some of your vids I like, nice work, keep it up.
Lovely car. Great video. James Bond also drove one of these in Tomorrow Never Dies.
Every one says ive got the nicest E38 but no . I have the nicest 728i in green with green interior its mad so perfect it was in a show room for a year .Its a crazy car not one scratch .its not for sale yet end of this year maybe .full bmw service history . manchester , Around 4 000 i have the bill of sale £44.000 new .Andf mine comes with a prive plate BSZ ???? and my car has everything this car has ,except the blind . you canot hear my car it ticks .I orgasm every time i put the key in my ignition .
Very nice Damian. I love videos that put the spot light on greats from the past that are often overlooked today.
Great - I’ll make sure I do a load more - thanks for the feedback
Cheers, Jeremy. Have to come and visit you sometime in something very un-Swiss
They are lovely cars Damian. Keep up the good work. Is an L7 on your hit list yet?
Anthony Barton I’ve not considered the L7 - you almost never seen them.
Love the bimmers 💚
The mid 80s to late 90s BMW made fantastic cars. Styling was awesome, interiors solid and comfortable, Drivers car philosophy. Sadly Bangle and the board at BMW took the original ethos and put it in the bin. What they came up with was an abomination from which they have never fully recovered.
Can’t argue with any of this - it’s all true and v sad. Well said, Marcus
marcus copley The e46 was a product of the early 2000s and still a mighty fine car, don’t understand why they made such a beautiful 3 series but mess up the 7.
Ike N Saying that it’s not hard to understand doesn’t change a thing. An explanation would be welcome.
Ike N Thank you for your informative reply. I didn’t know much about BMW’s history. But if I’m not mistaken, you say the E39 and E34 received bad reception from the media? And that that’s why they let Chris Bangle loose. The public loved the cars, right? I’m from 2000, so I didn’t exist during BMW’s prime and know little of what went on in that era.
Ike N Do you think BMW would be completely different if he became CEO? Even nowadays? Seeing as BMW has to conform to trends like the pops and bangs, smoky headlights, 4 cyls, but they still make some passionate driver cars like the M2.
Practically the perfect car.
Agreed!
Very nice review. Well done. I have NEVER seen a E38 with that lovely navy interior. Superb. Only once, did I see an E32 735iL with navy (Ultramarine) interior. What is the knob and button under the driver's side heated seat knob? "TM?" Never seen it before. Aside from the brochures, I've never seen the seat bottoms so nicely padded still - often they are horribly flattened with age. Strongly considering purchasing a E38 750iL in my area soon. Wanted a 750 since 1989. Maybe it's time. And yes, so many scare and warn people to stay away - hence why they are virtually all gone. I've heard the V-12s and their transmissions are more reliable than their V-8 counterparts.
Thanks. TM is TrafficMaster, an ancient version of the traffic levels you get on modern sat navs and smartphones. This car only had 24k miles when I got it, hence the good condition of the seats. I've had three 750s now - I love 'em.
@@TheCarGuysTV Thanks. Interesting. 3 750s? Wow. All E38s? Any 740s or do you prefer the 750s? So many scare people away from these cars. I am in the midst of considering purchasing a `98 750iL w/ 113K. Any other tips or motivation?
I've had 3 750's, one mint '95, another '95, a really rough one but it went like stink, and I can therefore answer the question how fast they are un-limited, mine did 275 km/h with relative ease on GPS, sure it took a while but she got there. My last one was one of 1032 made short wheelbase facelifts for LHD Europe markets. M-sport package on that aswell, which made it 1/81 made. I miss that one and have been trying to but it back for 5 years.... To be honest even my M5 had nothing on the 750, except pace obvs.
One of my favourite cars! Amazing condition.
Thank you, Stephen - very kind of you to say
Great video mate.. I'm in love with this car.. I mean who cares about a smile or a "thank you"... as long as you are driving a classic BMW people will get off your way.. because you are a GERMAN now.. 🇩🇪
I had one of these back when I was 19, it broke my financially with the servicing costs haha
Lol, right me too i have a 2001 740i M sport and i just spend almost $7000 ( seven thousands dollars) to replace all the major components in the V8 engine.
agreed on the no one will ever let you out !
Still beautiful
An amazing car....love it.
It really is!
@@TheCarGuysTV maybe one day I will have one as well.
People buying Tulsa, We love E38 hands down.
Good video, makes me want to go hunting on Autotrader and Craigslist.
Do it - that’s why I do almost every night
Good review
Thank you, Victor
I have owned a 750IL 1999. And that is not cheap. Spark plugs are three times more expensive then regular ones, plus it is 3 times more of them then in «regual» cars. S EDC shocks..... soooo expensive... ended up selling the car because of the running costs....
I’ve not had any of those issues over the 3 I’ve had in the last 14 years
Most 750 owners can not afford the running costs. They have the running costs of an £80k car.
it uses 3 times more plugs than a 4 cyl car . there not 3x more expensive ! if your paying 3x more your getting ripped of
5:52 suzuki 750 gt two stroke classic
Spotted
I own a 2000 750Silver /Black leather for sale TX Very clean. runs and drive. How much should I be asking
My fav 7!!!
Well done, sir, you have great taste
Thank you for posting cars with a great sense of character and prestige in a world that´s giving up on sedans and welcoming the suvs or crossovers wich I don´t really like that much, suvs are not designed to ride on city streets but mountains, so throw me a great sedan and I´m riding! ;) one of my fav ones is also the Mercedes S Class from the 90s Have a great day!
Thanks for your kind words, Mario. This channel will feature almost no SUVs - it’s not our thing.
Great! on soprts cars one that took my attention was the McLaren 570 GT, and I´m not into sports cars, I´m quite practical guy who loves sedans and wagons! ;)
I wish we got the swb 750 in the U.S
Fantastic, do you still have it?
Yes of course, but I have wrapped it midnight blue as I prefer 750s in a dark colour. I may revert back to silver at some point.
@@TheCarGuysTV that's great, what a nice thing to own. I love older car's they have so much character, I have a thing for old Mercedes-Benz.
Nice video Damian!
Thanks, Supercarsofthesouth . Perhaps not the most exciting video ever - but we CarGuys like all sorts of cars - supercars, classics and the quirky stuff. This is the latter I reckon.
Thanks - originally shot it this summer and forgot about it
I think it’s good to not just focus on the fanciest and most expensive so then your reaching out to a rider range of audience, I have recently started making videos on newer more sensible cars and I enjoy it,
Wider*
I agree. Our aim with this channel was to feature a wide variety of cars - anything that interests us, basically. And that's a weird list. Yes there will be supercars, as they form the bulk of my collection, but I'm also moving into classics - and I'm very impulsive - so you never know what's going to turn up
nah, its more teletext than ceefax!!! btw what a car!
i have the exact same car with just over 111k on the clock i lover her :)
Love your review. Wish you'd drive it longer :)
Thanks, Dwi - I'm pretty sure 11 minutes of BMW 750 is more than most people can stand watching in a lifetime :). Glad you liked it.
Can you get hold of an R129 SL60/ SL73 and review that , If you like 90 S luxury tanks on acid that's about the daddy . Not sure there is even a SL73 in the UK to be honest .
We can have a look. Sounds like a car buying challenge to me
Great show would be an intersting review , think you'll just about get hold of a SL60 if your lucky, been the bored out V8 to 6.0L by AMG. rumour has it Merc down played the BHP figures as not to over shadow the SL600 , lighter engine but still at tank , maybe dyno to put it to rest. Can't beat hearing the door shut on an R129 the last true built Mercedes before the bankers accounts took over. Not sure they even made a UK spec SL73 would be rare as rocking horse s--! Apparently there is only one SL73 made with the steering wheel on the correct side and is based in the UK. forums.mbclub.co.uk/threads/another-sl60.115174/
Chris Bangle destroyed the 7 series since his involvement , this car was always N 3 in the market after Mercedes S class..
Completely agree
My obsession with the W140
Good job!!!
Thanks - much appreciated
Superb video ! I owned nearly the exact same car ( a 750il, long wheelbase, e38 ). Best car for daily / regular / family / long distance use I have ever owned. Ran it for 10 years from 20,000 miles when i bought it thru well over 100,000 miles. Then sold it (idiot) and bought a Mercedes S600L which only kept my attention for less than a year.
Would buy another 750 in a heartbeat if I could find a sub 50k miles one ( is yours for sale ? )
I have now owned an F355 GTB for 8 years and notice from your video with STG that you have a GTS.
Whilst your one of course is a soft-top (aka not a proper one LOL) I would love to see a video of it and your opinions & experiences of ownership { pretty please }.
Will tune in to catch that if you can put it together.
Hi Mike, thanks for the feedback. I’m afraid my 750 isn’t for sale - it’s my third and the best yet. My 355 is the full Spider not the GTS and I am most definitely doing a video on it soon.
Mike, are you located in the states?
Never a smile ??? In the contrary, over one year I get an average of two dozens of compliments and never less than ten people asking me if they can purchase the car (driving on the continent, though).
Why when it cuts to the car driving back and forward over the gravel is it a different car? My Dad had a E38 7-Series from new - albeit not a 750!
Paul8342 it’s the same car
TheCarGuys.TV Why has it got different wheels on it in those shots? It’s a bit like the changing steering wheel in your 930 Targa...
I changed the wheels for ones I like better
Great car,it just needs PETROL AND GOOD MAINTENANCE JUST LIKE ANY OTHER CAR.👍
I’m obsessed with the 750 too.😅😍😍. Does it matter how many kilometers it has or not?
Not really. My first one had 112,000 miles (160,000km) and it was fine. As long as you take care of the rubber suspension bits and ensure it is properly serviced. Service history is more important, because we are talking about a complex V12 engine - that has to be kept tip-top.
TheCarGuys.TV ok thanks. I plan on doing everything suspension, engine etc. Because I want it to be like a new car. Cause I’m not going to sell it. 750 for life😃😅.
Good man - that's the spirit
Stefan Dupor so did you get one stefan?
you need to take this to s proper tuning shop and see what they can do with the ecu, I would bet they can get it preforming just a bit better than it already does..
thelocustemperor I had thought of this - maybe take it to someone like Munich Legends and get all the suspension rubbers upgraded, but most importantly the brakes.
sadly bmw locked the ecu`s on the m73 so no tuning possible ,in any case its a very old design and only 2 valves per cylinder
I would trade my 98 e38 for the 94z/28 I had in a heartbeat. Same Hp more torque, better handling with a thousand less pounds to drag along.
Do more on this car or cars like this
I didn’t think anyone would be interested in this when I shot it, but it’s been extremely popular. There will definitely be more vids like this - have no fear
TheCarGuys.TV my grandfather has one of these he brought it from new meaning he could obviously spec it how he wanted and has done over 200,000 miles in it he absolutely loves it and I don’t think will ever sell it
If anyone is interested about these beautiful cars yee should check out m539 restorations on RUclips, he buys broken bmw 's and restores them. One of his projects was a stunning e38. One of my favourite RUclips channels, its brilliant 👌
Please sell it to me
I so love this car with all my heart ❤️😭😭😭😭
Sorry, not for sale - it is a beauty though, and there’s a good one for sale right now at DD Classics
I like that ,,, am big and am German ,get out the way 😄😄😄😄
I prefer the V12 XJ40; the styling is far more, err, stylish IMO... although I have an E39 M5.
The 7 Series just looks like a phat 5 Series IMO.
Not too far off, driving an E38 and E39 back to back makes the E38 feel like just a squarer, heavier, and softer E39
Obsession and in the first ten seconds a huge mistake. It's not a 5 liter it's a 5.4 liter v12
Better not watch it then
‘I am big and I am German get out of my way’ Everything that’s wrong with German car drivers !
And it’s a joke
@@TheCarGuysTV of course it is. That’s why no one lets German cars out a junctions! Oh and I own two classic German cars
She's definitely a minter!
You better believe it - 25,000 miles and 22 years old
21 mpg on highway is good? are u kidding?
for a v12 barge from the 90s? its decent haha
25k eh? I saw over 28 you liar
the last REAL bmw 7,after e38 only garbage
Bmws were great until the mid '80s. After that they converted into shit!
Er, no. That’s bollocks I’m afraid
E38 is the greatest generation.