autoevolution
 

Segment: Upper Premium
Production years: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

BMW L7 (E38) 1997-2001 19 Photos
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In 1997, BMW tried its luck with the BMW L7 750 iXL, a stretched version of the E38 7 Series. It is longer by 250 mm (9.8”) than the long-wheelbase 7 series. And all this length is added for the rear passenger's comfort. For this special version, the customization was taken to a different level for a production vehicle.

The vehicle was available with two or three seats in the back. If two seats were selected, a big, central console was installed. It included a small refrigerator, cupholders, separate climate control unit and the buttons for rear-seat heating.

The right-rear passenger had the option to control the right front seat via buttons in the central console. If the passenger needed, he could move the right seat forward, recline it and lower the headrest.

The car could also feature a communication center. The mobile phone technology was not new anymore, but not a common service either. Still, the L7 could have a Fax-machine in the back. On the optional separating panel between the front and rear seats and install a TV.

From the technical point of view, the V12 engine and transmission were standard. It featured the same 5-speed automatic transmission, but with different settings for smoother gear changes. The pneumatic suspension was adjustable, either for a smooth ride or firm, just in case of a getaway run.

BMW L7 (E38) 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
  1 gasoline engine
  • 5.4L V12 5AT RWD (326 HP)

BMW L7 (E38)
5.4L V12 5AT RWD (326 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 5.4L V12 5AT RWD (326 HP)
Cylinders:V12
Displacement:5379 cm3
Power:240 KW @ 5000 RPM
326 HP @ 5000 RPM
322 BHP @ 5000 RPM
Torque:361 lb-ft @ 3900 RPM
490 Nm @ 3900 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
PERFORMANCE SPECS
Top Speed:155.3 mph (250 km/h)
Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph):6.8 s
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Rear Wheel Drive
Gearbox:5-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Ventilated Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:235/60 WR16
DIMENSIONS
Length:211.4 in (5370 mm)
Width:73.2 in (1859 mm)
Height:55.9 in (1420 mm)
Front/rear Track:61/61.8 in (1,549/1,570 mm)
Wheelbase:130.7 in (3320 mm)
Cargo Volume:15.5 cuFT (439 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.32
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:4673.8 lbs (2120 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:5687.9 lbs (2580 kg)
FUEL ECONOMY (NEDC)
City:10.5 mpg US (22.4 L/100Km)
Highway:21.9 mpg US (10.7 L/100Km)
Combined:15.6 mpg US (15.1 L/100Km)
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