The E32 7-Series represented BMW's flagship luxury sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Jaguar XJ. It was known for its advanced technology, refined driving dynamics, and sophisticated styling.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors Of The Era:
Mercedes-Benz W124/W140, Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Lexus LS 400.
Key Features
Signature Attributes:
V8 engine options (M60), advanced electronics (ASC+T, onboard computer), long wheelbase (iL models), premium interior materials, sophisticated suspension.
Manual Value Proposition
Target Audience:
Owners, independent repair shops, enthusiasts specializing in classic BMWs.
Why Needed:
Complex German engineering requires precise service information. This manual provides the in-depth knowledge necessary for proper maintenance and repair.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
General Coverage:
Comprehensive workshop and repair procedures for BMW 7-Series (E32) models.
Professional-level workshop manual covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Searchable Text:
Yes (typical for well-produced PDFs)
Printability:
Printable pages
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High (essential for clear diagrams)
Diagram Clarity:
Excellent (crucial for E32 complexity)
Binding Type
Digital Access:
Downloadable file
Paper Type
Physical Manual Analogy:
Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Families:
M30 (inline-6), M60 (V8)
Inline 6 Variant 1 Displacement:
2.988 cc (3.0 Liters)
Inline 6 Variant 1 Power:
Approx. 188 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M30B30)
Inline 6 Variant 1 Torque:
Approx. 270 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (M30B30)
Inline 6 Variant 2 Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.5 Liters)
Inline 6 Variant 2 Power:
Approx. 211 hp @ 5,700 rpm (M30B35)
Inline 6 Variant 2 Torque:
Approx. 305 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (M30B35)
V8 Variant 1 Displacement:
2.997 cc (3.0 Liters)
V8 Variant 1 Power:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M60B30)
V8 Variant 1 Torque:
Approx. 290 Nm @ 4,500 rpm (M60B30)
V8 Variant 2 Displacement:
3.982 cc (4.0 Liters)
V8 Variant 2 Power:
Approx. 282 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M60B40)
V8 Variant 2 Torque:
Approx. 400 Nm @ 4,500 rpm (M60B40)
Performance
0 To 100 Km H 735I:
Approx. 8.5 seconds
0 To 100 Km H 740I:
Approx. 7.4 seconds
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic (various versions depending on engine/year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended)
Engine Construction
M60 Block Material:
Aluminum alloy (first production V8 from BMW)
M30 Block Material:
Cast Iron
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Options Early Models:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Transmission Options Later Models:
5-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP18 for 3.0L, ZF 5HP30 for 4.0L)
Optional
Manual Transmission Availability:
Rare, primarily in some European markets, not typically covered in detail for North American models. Manuals for these specific transmissions may be separate or niche.
Features
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Sport and Economy modes (on some models).
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW LT-3 (or equivalent ATF meeting DEXRON-III specifications, consult specific model year).
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity Approx:
8-10 Liters (depending on model and procedure).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Standard:
2,930 mm (115.4 in)
Wheelbase Long (Il):
3,070 mm (120.9 in)
Length Standard:
4,971 mm (195.7 in)
Length Long (Il):
5,111 mm (201.2 in)
Interior
Cabin Features:
Spacious cabin, high-quality materials, advanced climate control, electric seat adjustments.
Weights
Curb Weight Approx 730I:
1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)
Curb Weight Approx 740I:
1,800 kg (3,968 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Historical Rating Availability:
Modern crash test ratings (NHTSA/IIHS) are not directly comparable to this era, but the E32 was built to high safety standards for its time.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most models, ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) optional or standard on later models.
Traction Control:
ASC+T available on V8 models and some later 6-cylinder models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from 1990 onwards. Passenger airbag optional or standard on later models.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and safety cell construction.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon optional), cassette player, early CD integration.
Navigation:
Optional early GPS navigation systems (primitive by modern standards).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park distance sensors (early implementation).
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated car phone systems.
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control, rear climate control outlets.
Seat Features:
Power adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats, lumbar support.
Window Sunroof Control:
Power windows, power sunroof, automatic closing function.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually. Varies by driving conditions and oil type used.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum). Manual will specify exact type and interval.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity Approx 6Cyl:
6.5 Liters (with filter).
Engine Oil Capacity Approx V8:
7.5 Liters (with filter).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent).