The E38 728i/L

The BMW E38 728i is often the unsung hero of the legendary E38 7 Series lineup.

While everyone tends to drool over the monstrous V8s and V12s, or choose the conservative, rather economical diesel powetrains, the 728i quietly stood its ground, offering a sweet balance of luxury, efficiency, and that signature BMW driving experience. Sure, it's the entry-level model (along with the 725tds), but this isn't just any entry-level car—this is a 7 Series, where "entry-level" still means you're rolling in style, comfort, and precision.

Engine Overview

Under the hood of the BMW E38 728i, you've got BMW's iconic 2.8L I6 M52 engine—arguably one of the best inline-six engines the german brand ever made, more precisely known as the M52B28 and later the M52TUB28. With 2.8 liters of naturally aspirated smoothness, the M52 gives you 193 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque. It may not sound like much compared to the bigger engines in the lineup, but don't let those numbers fool you. This engine is crafted for those that are all about that smooth, refined power delivery that BMW's inline-sixes are known for, making it a pleasure to drive around without spending a fortune.

Performance

The rear-wheel-drive setup, found on all E38's, combined with the balanced chassis that BMW did so well, means the 728i handles way better than you'd expect for a luxury sedan of this size. It's nimble for a big car, with excellent weight distribution, making it more of a driver's car than most people would think. BMW's focus on making their cars engaging to drive is evident here, even though the 728i was the "baby" of the bunch.

It's not just about the power—it's how the car uses it. The M52 engine is paired with a suspension setup that makes the car feel connected to the road, something that's quite rare for a luxury sedan. You get a car that feels comfortable on long highway trips but is also responsive and fun when you hit those back roads. For enthusiasts, the 728i gives you a taste of everything BMW does best, just in a more understated package.

  • Power Output: 193 hp (144 kW) @ 5,300 rpm
  • Torque: 280 Nm (206.5 lb-ft) @ 3,950 rpm
  • 0-100 km/h: 9 seconds
  • Top Speed: 230 km/h (143 mph)

It's nowhere near a track car, but the 728i isn't about sprinting—it's about delivering that perfect flow of power right when you need it. Whether you're cruising down the highway or taking a winding road, this inline-six is there to make the experience silky smooth.

728i/L Sound


728i Acceleration

Fuel Consumption

One of the key points about the BMW 728i is that owners don't have to deal with the thirsty fuel habits of the larger V8s and V12s. This inline-six was built with efficiency in mind, and it shows.

  • Fuel Consumption (combined): 8-9 L/100 km (31-35 mpg)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 85 liters (22.5 gallons)

However, the fuel efficiency drops when exploited through city traffic - 14.5L/100km (17-20 mpg)

This makes the 728i a great choice if you want a luxury cruiser but don't want to empty your wallet at the gas station. For long road trips, it's a real winner, especially when combined with the general comfort and refinement of the 7 Series.

Reliability and Maintenance

The M52 and M52TUB28 engines were generally regarded as reliable, provided they were properly maintained. As with any older BMW, regular servicing was crucial to ensuring longevity. Key areas to watch for included:

  • Cooling System: One of the common maintenance areas for the M52 engine was the cooling system, particularly the radiator and water pump, which could wear over time.
  • VANOS System: The VANOS system, particularly in the M52TUB28, was another component that could require attention, mainly due to the aging of the seals.
  • Oil Leaks: The M52 engines were known for potential oil leaks around the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing, but these were generally inexpensive and easy to fix if caught early.

With proper care and maintenance, the 728i could easily cover high mileage, and many examples of this model are still on the road today, a testament to its durability and the quality of BMW's engineering.