BMW 7 Series E38
The definitive modern classic luxury saloon, blending timeless elegance with driver-focused dynamics.
- Power
- 282 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.4 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$28k
About the BMW 7 Series E38
The E38 generation 7 Series is widely regarded as the pinnacle of BMW's luxury saloon design, featuring a slim, athletic profile that avoided the bulk of its successors. The 740i variant, particularly with the 4.4-litre M62 V8 introduced for 1996, offers a sweet spot of effortless torque and relative mechanical simplicity. It was the first European car to offer integrated satellite navigation and the first BMW with curtain airbags, setting a high bar for 1990s technology. Collectors prize the short-wheelbase 'i' models for their superior handling balance compared to the longer 'iL' versions.
BMW 7 Series E38 specs
The BMW 7 Series E38 produces 282 bhp (210 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | E38 |
| Trim | 740i |
| Years | 1994–2001 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $63,000 when new |
| Engine | 4.4-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,398 cc (4.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 282 bhp (210 kW) at 5,700 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,250 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.4 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,850 kg (4,079 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 152 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 7 Series E38 worth?
A typical BMW 7 Series E38 is estimated to be worth $7,000 – $28,000 (about £5,200 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $63,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 7 Series E38 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 7 Series E38 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 7 Series E38 fun facts
- The E38 7 Series gained cinematic fame as James Bond's gadget-laden company car in the 1997 film 'Tomorrow Never Dies'.
- It was the first car in the world to be available with a satellite navigation system integrated into the dashboard.
- The 1998 facelift introduced the 'M62TU' engine, which added variable valve timing (VANOS) for improved low-end torque.
