7 Series ownership advice

[ngruzevs@optusnet.com.au]

Currently I own an E34 1989 535i, I'm thinking of upgrading to a 7 series due to my kids my kids getting older and needing a bit more space. I'm probably going to look at an E32 735i or the later 730iL with the V8.

After spending a couple of thousand on my current 535i, has anyone got any advice, hints or tips on these two models, eg what to look out for, what can go wrong.

Is the 7 Series boot larger than the 5 series (E34 Vs E32)?

[shogun]

go to my website below and read under
Tips : Before you buy

covers the 735, 740 and 750.
The 740 is the more modern engine, but the old M30 straight six is the iron horse in the stable and used in many BMW models.
Maintenance is cheaper (also easier DIY), and much more used parts are available.
I would tend to the 735.
Boot of the 7 series is larger, as you can imagine.

Basically - as you drive an 535- there will be no big surprise for you, many parts are interchangeable with the E34.
The 7 is bigger and more comfortable, more legroom in the rear.
Stay away from cars with EDC shocks, very expensive to replace, costs same as a complete new car.
Or you replace them against standard shocks.
In case you buy an iL, legroom is again larger in the rear, but all iL have LAD = self levelling for the rear, these shocks cost about 500 $ a piece.
But mine last now almost 20 years, but less than 100k miles so far.

[shogun]

here you have the dimensions of the car.
Standard E32
http://s71.photobucket.com/albums/i1...messungen1.gif
http://s71.photobucket.com/albums/i1...messungen2.gif
and this is the iL
http://s71.photobucket.com/albums/i1...messungen3.gif

[ngruzevs@optusnet.com.au]

Shogun

Thanks for the advice.
From what I can tell the 730iL has the EDC shocks. I guess I was originally keen on the model due to the 5 speed auto and the airbag.
You're spot on about the M30 engine, mine has been trouble free and feels like it has another 200,000Km in it.
I'm 6 Foot 3 and there is enough room for me in the 535i, but not much leg room behind me for the back seat passenger. When I got the 535i I didn't realise it wasn't a big car, it's just bout the same size as my 2.5 Subaru (Legacy) liberty.
It looks like I'm in the market for a E32 735i or 735iL.
Again thanks for your help and advice on your website.

Cheers

Nick