Front strut suspension, rear multi-link independent suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, hydraulic self-leveling rear suspension (optional on some models)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, tilt/telescopic adjustment
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) II, brake calipers, rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, hydraulic lines, parking brake
Electrical System:
12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, sunroof operation, bumpers, trim components, corrosion protection
Panel alignment, door and window repair, trim replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and bolts
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable (OCR processed)
Navigation:
Hyperlinked table of contents and cross-references
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High resolution scans, clear diagrams and illustrations
Binding Type
Original Binding:
Stapled, perfect bound, or spiral bound (depending on original format)
Paper Type
Original Paper:
High-quality, durable paper stock for workshop use
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 735:
M30B35
Displacement 735:
3.5 Liters (3430 cc)
Configuration 735:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Bore X Stroke 735:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio 735:
8.0:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market/year)
Engine Code 740:
M60B40
Displacement 740:
4.0 Liters (3982 cc)
Configuration 740:
V8, DOHC (4 valves per cylinder)
Bore X Stroke 740:
84.0 mm x 89.0 mm
Compression Ratio 740:
10.0:1
Engine Code 750:
M60B44 (later models sometimes designated M62)
Displacement 750:
4.4 Liters (4398 cc)
Configuration 750:
V8, DOHC (4 valves per cylinder)
Bore X Stroke 750:
84.0 mm x 98.0 mm
Compression Ratio 750:
10.0:1
Performance
Horsepower 735:
Approx. 208-211 hp @ 5700-5800 rpm
Torque 735:
Approx. 228-232 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 740:
Approx. 282-296 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm
Torque 740:
Approx. 295-300 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower 750:
Approx. 296-312 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm
Torque 750:
Approx. 315-330 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission 735:
5-speed manual (Getrag 265) on some early models, 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Transmission 740/750:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22 for 740i, ZF 4HP24 for 750iL)
Optional
Optional Gearbox:
5-speed manual (available on 735i, less common)
Features
Sport Mode:
Automatic transmissions often featured a 'Sport' mode for altered shift points
Self Leveling Suspension Integration:
Automatic transmission control integrated with hydraulic self-leveling suspension system (on equipped models)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Std:
Approx. 116.5 inches (2960 mm)
Wheelbase Long Il:
Approx. 120.9 inches (3070 mm)
Length Std:
Approx. 198.7 inches (5045 mm)
Length Long Il:
Approx. 203.1 inches (5160 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.7 inches (1820 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight 735:
Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (1678-1769 kg)
Curb Weight 740:
Approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg)
Curb Weight 750Il:
Approx. 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2041 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Not directly comparable to modern NHTSA frontal/side impact ratings; focused on passive safety features of the era.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard BMW ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on most models by end of E32 production)
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Integrated radio cassette player with optional CD changer. Often featured advanced (for its time) EON-RDS tuning.
Display:
Central LCD display for climate control, radio presets, and check control messages.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional park distance control (PDC) sensors on front and/or rear bumpers.
Connectivity
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with early CRT or LCD screen displays.
Telematics:
Some models offered integrated cellular phones.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Check oil level frequently.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) for standard plugs; longer for platinum/iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 50,000 - 70,000 miles (80,000 - 112,000 km). Manual: Less frequent, check for leaks.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended. Refer to manual for exact viscosity based on climate.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ZF Lifeguardfluid5 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon rated fluid for earlier transmissions, but specific ZF fluid is preferred for longevity). Check manual for precise specification.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III/Mercon or BMW specific fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (DOT 4 preferred for higher boiling point).
Known Issues
Cooling System Leaks:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks, hoses, and water pumps are prone to cracking and leaking with age. Thermostat housing can also leak.
Head Gasket M60 V8:
The Nikasil cylinder coating in early M60 V8 engines (especially pre-1994) could be susceptible to wear from sulfuric compounds in low-quality fuel. Later M60s and M62s used Alusil (aluminum-silicon alloy) which is more robust.
ABS Controller:
ABS control modules can fail, leading to ABS and speedometer issues. The ABS wheel speed sensors can also degrade.
Window Regulators And Motors:
Electric window regulators and motors can become weak or fail, especially the tracks and cables. Door panel removal is often required for service.
E Box Cooling Fan:
The fan in the 'E-box' (engine electronics compartment) can fail, leading to overheating of the engine control module and potential performance issues.
Fuel Pump And Filter:
Fuel pumps can lose pressure over time; fuel filters should be replaced periodically to prevent clogging.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings (control arms, subframes) degrade over time, leading to poor handling and ride quality.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, luxurious, and technologically advanced vehicles. The 7 Series represents the pinnacle of their sedan offerings.
Model Evolution
E32 Introduction:
The E32 generation replaced the E23 7 Series in 1986 (for the 1987 model year in some markets) and was produced until 1994. It marked a significant step forward in design, technology, and engineering.
Engine Updates:
The introduction of the M60 V8 engines (4.0L and later 4.4L) in 1992 was a major update, offering smoother power delivery and increased performance over the inline-six.
Long Wheelbase Variant:
The 'iL' designation signified the long-wheelbase version, offering significantly increased rear legroom and often more opulent rear-seat amenities.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Production Volume:
Over 350,000 units produced worldwide across all variants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
While specific model year awards for the E32 aren't as readily documented as newer generations, the 7 Series consistently received positive reviews and was considered a benchmark luxury sedan.
Ratings
Car Reviews:
Praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated interior. Criticisms often cited its complexity and higher maintenance costs compared to some rivals.