1997 740iL

[pgallant]

Hi,

I need some opinions about the 97 740iL, I have been in love with this year and model since...well 1997, and have found a beautiful black one for sale for reasonable price.

The problem is, I have been told by "enthusiasts" that this model/generation is a maintenance and reliability nightmare. The car has 186000 km and I'm told problem free and well maintained.

Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm getting a CarFax report tomorrow.

Patrick

[marti5]

They are like all cars look after it and maintain it correctley it will run for years, here's a guide to buying and top 10 problems.

BMW E38 Buyers Guide

and

Board Message

Also www.the7seriesregister.co.uk is a great forum if you run a 7 series.

Regards,

Marti.

[bow]

who ever told you that lied the e38 is an amazing car

[pgallant]

I've read a ton of the threads in this forum, and it would seem that way. Their opinion could be based on a buddy's story, who knows. However I did notice that significant transmission problems seem to be common. Hopefully the fellow who left his car in Kentucky for a few months makes out allright.

Mind you, people that are trouble free never post just to say they love the car! Threads are usually someone with an issue that needs help.

Patrick

[marti5]

The E38 is an amazing car, I have one, but all those things do happen sometime in its life.

The trouble was when the E32 was built it was built by German mechanics with heart and pride and it was built to last forever,but the E38 was sadly built by BMW accountants, so it takes a bit more love,care and attention to keep this marque going.

Believe me I love mine to bits, but I do have to work on her a bit more than an E32 and spend a few more £££ on her, but will continue to do so.

[bow]

^very true although produced in germany they are not tankslike their predecessor(sp?)

[denyo77]

I wouldn't call the e32 a tank at all... the S-class and the A8 of the time look a lot more tank-ish
the only 7er tanks are the current and the next one