The BMW 730i (E38) Steptronic, produced from 1994 to 1996, represented the entry point into the luxurious and technologically advanced second generation of the BMW 7 Series. Positioned below the 740i and 750iL models, the 730i offered a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and BMW engineering within the E38 chassis, which was the first all-new 7 Series platform in over a decade. It served as a more accessible option for buyers desiring the prestige of a 7 Series without the higher price tag of the larger displacement engines. The E38 generation, known for its robust build quality and innovative features, established a new benchmark for luxury sedans.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series (E38) |
| Type (Engine) | 730i (218 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.1 l/100 km (15.6 US mpg, 18.7 UK mpg, 6.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 234 km/h (145.4 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 124.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 165.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 4500 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M60B30 |
| Engine displacement | 2997 cm3 (182.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 67.6 mm (2.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 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 | 4984 mm (196.22 in.) |
| Width | 1862 mm (73.31 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2930 mm (115.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 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 730i was powered by the BMW M60B30 engine, a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, part of the M60 family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized aluminum alloy cylinder heads and block. It employed multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The M60B30 produced 218 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smooth power delivery and refinement over outright performance. Paired with the engine was a 5-speed automatic transmission marketed as “Steptronic,” which offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode for greater driver control. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, contributing to the overall luxurious driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 730i Steptronic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness and ease of use. While not as overtly sporty as the 740i or 750iL, the 3.0-liter V8 provided adequate power for relaxed cruising and confident overtaking. The Steptronic transmission, while not as quick-shifting as some modern automatics, offered seamless gear changes and a user-friendly manual mode. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.2 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 145.4 mph. Compared to the manual transmission versions (which were rare), the Steptronic offered greater convenience, particularly in urban driving. However, the automatic transmission did result in a slight reduction in fuel economy and acceleration compared to the manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 730i came standard with a comprehensive list of features befitting a luxury sedan of its era. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power windows and locks. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, a navigation system, and upgraded leather trim. The interior design was characterized by its elegant simplicity and high-quality materials. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, with all essential controls within easy reach. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most customization options available through individual selections rather than distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The E38 7 Series featured a robust chassis with independent suspension at all four wheels. The front suspension utilized a wishbone design, while the rear employed an inclined lever setup. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 730i was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during braking. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 730i was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, refined engine, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the outright performance of the larger-engined 7 Series models. Compared to the 740i, the 730i offered a more affordable entry point into the E38 range, but at the expense of some performance. Fuel economy was respectable for a V8-powered luxury sedan, averaging around 22.4 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the complexity of the vehicle and the cost of BMW parts.
Legacy
The BMW 730i (E38) Steptronic remains a sought-after classic among BMW enthusiasts. The M60B30 engine, while not as powerful as its larger siblings, is known for its durability and smooth operation. The Steptronic transmission, when properly maintained, has proven to be a reliable unit. Today, well-maintained examples of the 730i command respectable prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and the reputation of the E38 generation as a high-quality luxury sedan. Finding parts can sometimes be a challenge, but a dedicated network of BMW specialists and aftermarket suppliers ensures that these cars can be kept on the road for years to come.
