2000 BMW 7 Series Review
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By John Matras

Overview

Big cars are not supposed to be agile. But BMW's 7 Series sedans hustle down winding roads like two-seat roadsters. The BMW 740i is powered by a 4.4-liter V8; equipped with an optional Sport Package that offers great handling, it is a luxury car for the enthusiast.

Model Lineup

The $62,970 740i is the shorter member of BMW's big 7 Series sedan line. The 740iL ($66,970) and 750iL ($92,670) have a longer wheelbase for limousine-like rear legroom. While the 740i and 740iL are powered by the V8, the 750iL comes with a magnificent V12. Prices are unchanged from the 1999 model year. (All prices include destination charge.)

New to the lineup this year are the 740iL and 750iL Protection Line light-armored vehicles ($99,400 and $125,400 respectively). These two take providing extra security out of the hands of converters and make it an original equipment option. They feature armoring of critical body panels" with Aramide cloth, bullet-resistant glass and standard luxury features, but have seating only for four.

Although the line receives no major changes for 2000, BMW ladled on standard equipment upgrades. High-pressure headlight washers, auto-leveling Xenon low-beam headlamps, "super-premium audio" with 14 speakers including four subwoofers and more, onboard navigation and rain-sensing wipers are now standard on all models. The Sport Package, available only on the 740i last year, is now offered on the 740iL and 750iL as well.

A premium sound system with a 6-CD changer is now standard. Options include a $1,100 cold weather package (heated front seats and steering wheel, headlamp washers and ski bag), $550 rear side-impact airbags (front side airbags and head protection system are standard), and $2,600 break-resistant security glass. Like other BMWs, the 740i comes with free scheduled maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles."