The BMW 728iL, produced between 1995 and 1998, was a long-wheelbase variant of the E38 generation 7 Series. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the flagship 7 Series range, the 728iL aimed to provide a luxurious experience with a more accessible price point compared to the higher-powered 740iL and 750iL models. The “L” designation signified the extended wheelbase, offering increased rear passenger legroom, a key selling point in markets where chauffeur-driven luxury was prevalent. This model was primarily targeted towards buyers seeking a comfortable and prestigious sedan without the outright performance of its more expensive siblings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (E38) |
| Type (Engine) | 728iL (193 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 111.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 3950 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 3950 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M52B28 |
| Engine displacement | 2793 cm3 (170.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.75 l (6.08 US qt | 5.06 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 5124 mm (201.73 in.) |
| Width | 1862 mm (73.31 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Inclined Lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 728iL was powered by the BMW M52B28 engine, a 2.8-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a significant evolution of the M50 and M52 families, known for their smooth operation and robust construction. The M52B28 featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 193 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque at 3950 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration were standard for BMW sedans of this era.
Paired with the M52B28 was BMW’s “Steptronic” 5-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection. The Steptronic transmission was designed to provide smooth and responsive shifts, complementing the engine’s characteristics. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 728iL offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as quick as the 740iL or 750iL, the 728iL provided adequate performance for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.1 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 139.81 mph. The automatic transmission contributed to a relaxed driving style, with smooth gear changes and a lack of the driver involvement required by a manual gearbox. The longer wheelbase of the “L” model resulted in a more compliant ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. However, the added weight of the extended chassis and the automatic transmission did slightly diminish the car’s agility compared to its shorter-wheelbase counterparts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 728iL came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and wood trim throughout the cabin. Standard safety features included ABS, traction control, and airbags. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, upgraded leather options, and rear seat entertainment systems. The interior design was characterized by its understated elegance and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The E38 7 Series featured an independent suspension system, with wishbone suspension at the front and an inclined lever rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 728iL was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 728iL was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as that of the higher-powered 7 Series models. Compared to the 740iL, the 728iL offered a more affordable entry point into the 7 Series range, but at the expense of some performance. Fuel economy was reasonable for a luxury sedan of its size, averaging around 21.2 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the car’s complex engineering.
Legacy
The BMW E38 728iL remains a sought-after classic among BMW enthusiasts. The M52B28 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. While finding parts can sometimes be challenging, the engine’s robust design ensures that well-maintained examples can continue to provide reliable service for many years. Today, the 728iL represents a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and comfortable classic sedan with a proven pedigree. Its blend of performance, comfort, and build quality has ensured its enduring appeal in the used car market.
