Modern Classic: BMW 7 Series

The BMW 750iL was launched in 1986 to take on the likes of Mercedes-Benz’s S-Class. Photo: BMW

The E32 BMW 7 Series hit the global market late in 1986 and ran through to 1994, it was also a defining car for the brand.

It represented a serious push upmarket to challenge the Mercedes-Benz S Class and Jaguar XJ. Soon it would be joined by the Lexus LS400.

Of particular interest was that with the E32 was that BMW “matched” Jaguar with a V12 engine. The 750iL had a 5-litre litre V12 that was good for 240kW, which was very powerful in its day and hit a speed limit of 250km/h. 

The 750iL was accompanied by a 735i short-wheel-base and a 735iL long-wheel-base, with the 735i sharing the same 3.5-litre straight six with the BMW 535i Sedan.

A mid-life facelift would see the introduction of a 730 and 740 in “i” and “iL” guides that sported 3-litre and 4-litre V8s. Again these would be shared in the 5 Series, which also gained a 2-litre straight six. The V12 remained as the 750iL.

The 7 Series at the time gave BMW a fresher, sportier edge than the ageing Mercedes-Benz S-Class and even older XJ. Mercedes would get a new S-Class to the market in 1991, similarly with a V12 engine like the BMW, whereas Jaguar would limp on with the older V12 model and a freshened six cylinder model.

The styling of the E32 still looks fresh some 34 years later with its round headlights, kidney grill and long sweeping rear with huge tail lights. Most models were furnished in soft nappa leather, with sunroofs, electric seats, cruise control, trip computer and digital odometer. 

The BMW 750iL included a phone (far right) plus a CD player and plenty of leather.

The top spec 750iL models came with a CD player and rear blinds, and even more leather. Some even had fax machines as well as the obligatory cellular telephone.

Perhaps more notable were the “firsts” for BMW, on the 7 Series, including projector and xenon headlights, double glazing windows, electronic damper control and traction control.

These days working models of the E32 do still exist in New Zealand. Of course, with ageing electrics, they are not for the faint hearted but they do offer incredible bang for the buck if you remain open minded. 

Trade Me doesn’t currently reveal any for sale, however from time to time they come up.

The 750iL was accompanied by a 735i short-wheel-base and a 735iL long-wheel-base/