BMW E38
Production years: 1994–2001
The BMW E38 is the third generation of the BMW 7 Series luxury flagship sedan, widely celebrated for its timeless styling, advanced engineering, and peak mechanical build quality. Produced between 1994 and 2001, the E38 remains a legendary automotive icon, popular among collectors and famously recognized in pop culture.
Key Specifications & Layout
- Body Styles: Standard wheelbase (i) and Long wheelbase (iL) adding 140 mm of rear legroom.
- Powertrains: Inline-6, V8, and V12 petrol variants, along with Inline-6 and V8 diesels.
- Drivetrain: Traditional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout.
- Transmissions: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, or a 5-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Technology & Features
The E38 was a pioneer for modern luxury vehicle tech. It was the first European car to offer an integrated satellite navigation system and the first BMW to feature a built-in television screen.
- Safety First: Introduced first-of-its-kind Curtain Airbags (Head Protection System) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
- High-End Comfort: Available with "Contour" massaging seats, double-glazed acoustic side windows, electronic damper control (EDC), and soft-close trunks.
- The "Highline" & "Individual": Exclusive trims offered premium additions like rear writing desks, integrated refrigerators, and bespoke upholstery options.