The E38 740i/L

The BMW E38 740i is considered to be the sweet spot in the 7 Series lineup, offering a perfect blend of V8 power and luxury that appeals to enthusiasts who want serious performance without the V12 costly extravagance.

Engine overview and specs

The 740i E38 featured two engine variants during its production: the M60B40 (4.0-liter V8) from 1994-1996 and the M62B44 (4.4-liter V8) from 1996 onwards. In 1998, a "Technical Update" was applied to the M62, resulting in the M62TU variant. New features include single-VANOS (variable valve timing for the intake camshaft) and electronic throttle control. The engine management was updated to Motronic ME7.2.

Power remained the exact same across all updates, but torque figures had slightly improved, as shown in the comparison below:

Power and Performance

  • 1994–1996 4.0 L M60B40 V8 - 210 kW (286 hp) 400 Nm (295 lb⋅ft)
  • 1996–1998 4.4 L M62B44 V8 - 210 kW (286 hp) 420 N⋅m (310 lb⋅ft)
  • 1998–2001 4.4 L M62TUB44 V8 - 210 kW (286 hp) 440 N⋅m (325 lb⋅ft)

As the enthusiasts of such engines have pointed out, the M60 has the most aggressive cams but the smallest displacement and no VANOS. Good torque, but it really hits in the midrange and revs well. In stock form it peaks around 5800 RPM but can be uncorked significantly with effective intake and exhaust work. The M62 makes more torque with milder cam timing and the increased displacement, but peak power is only slightly greater than the M60. Generally, it's pretty much done by 5800 RPM. The M62TU uses VANOS and a more low-end oriented intake manifold to produce more torque, but it doesn't rev like the M60 or M62. In stock form, peak power is around 5400 RPM.

M60B40

  • Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) : 6.9 s
  • Top Speed : 250 km/h / 155 Mph

M62B44

  • Acceleration 0-100km/h (0 - 62 mph) : 6.7 sec
  • Top speed : 250 km/h / 155 Mph

M62TUB44

  • Acceleration 0-100km/h (0 - 62 mph) : 6.3 sec
  • Top speed : 250 km/h / 155 Mph

740i/L Sound


740i Acceleration

Fuel Efficiency

Despite the V8's power, the BMW 740i manages respectable fuel efficiency for its class. With fuel consumption figures hovering around 12 liters/100 kilometers (approximately 20-23 mpg), the 740i stands relatively good for a full-sized luxury sedan with good performance. However, if your driving mainly consists of getting through heavy traffic, you might need a premium fuel station subscription, since fuel consumption will go up, quick.

General fuel consumption stats (no notable differences between engine variants):

  • Urban - 18.6 l/100 km (12.6 mpg)
  • Extra urban - 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 mpg)
  • Combined - 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 mpg)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 85 liters (22.5 gallons)

While it's not the most efficiency-oriented car, the balance between performance and luxury makes the 740i a desirable car for those in need of a fantastic long-distance cruiser.

Reliability and Common Issues

While the M62 engine is known for its reliability, there are a few common issues to be aware of:

  • Cooling System: Like other BMWs from this era, the cooling system (especially the water pump, radiator, and thermostat) is a known weak spot. Preventive maintenance is key to avoiding overheating, or worse.
  • Timing Chain Guide Failure: The plastic timing chain guides can wear down over time, leading to a rattling noise and potentially serious engine damage if not addressed.
  • Oil Leaks: Valve cover gaskets and timing chain cover leaks are common, though relatively easy to fix if caught early.
  • VANOS Unit: The Double-VANOS system (in later models) may fail, causing power loss at low RPMs and rough idling.