BMW E38 cars — abstract (BMW 7 Series E38)

The 3rd generation (E38 body) of the BMW 7 Series sedans was first introduced in May 1994 with the 730i and 740i models with 3.0 and 4.0 liter V8 engines. In September 1994, the 750i model with a 5.4 liter V12 engine was released, as well as extended versions of the 740i and 750i models. In September 1995, the 728i model with a 2.8 liter 6-cylinder engine began to be produced. In March 1996, the 730i model was replaced by the 735i model with a 3.5 liter V8 engine, and the 740i models were also introduced (with a new 4.4L engine, but without changing the power) and 725tds (with a 2.5L turbodiesel engine). In addition to those listed above, diesel models 730d and 740d were produced. During the production period (from 1994 to 2002.) the BMW E38's equipment has changed several times, which has resulted in a wide variety of modifications of these cars.

The engine is installed longitudinally in the engine compartment. A 5- or 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission with or without the Steptronic system was used to transmit torque from the engine to the rear drive wheels.

The fully independent front suspension consists of a beam, MacPherson struts, wishbones and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension is a multi-link design with a subframe and double elastic suspension of the main gear. The levers and drive wheels are geometrically located in such a way that they, together with the rubber supports, create the effect of joint control of the rear wheels and provide precisely calculated adjustment of the steering angle of the rear wheels.



The brakes are equipped with a vacuum booster. The brake mechanisms are disc brakes, and the ABS system is installed as standard.

The BMW E38 is equipped as standard with front airbags for the driver and front passenger, and from July 1997 also with side airbags.

Steering is of the "nut and bolt" type, with hydraulic booster.