The BMW 728iL, part of the E38 7 Series “Long” wheelbase generation produced from 1998 to 2001, represented a compelling entry point into BMW’s flagship luxury sedan range. Positioned below the more powerful 740iL and 750iL models, the 728iL offered a balance of refinement, performance, and relative affordability. The “L” designation signified the extended wheelbase, providing increased rear passenger legroom – a key feature for the model’s target market, particularly in markets like the United States and Asia where chauffeur-driven luxury was common. This variant was a facelifted version of the E38, incorporating styling and technological updates introduced in 1998.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (E38, facelift 1998) |
| Type (Engine) | 728iL (193 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.5 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.1 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – 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 | 226 km/h (140.43 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 3500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 3500 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 | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 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 | Wishbone |
| 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 V |
| 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 refined evolution of the M50 and M52 families, known for their smooth operation and robust construction. The M52B28 featured a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a Bosch Motronic multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing fuel efficiency and emissions. The engine produced 193 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 10.2:1 contributed to its responsive nature.
Paired with the M52B28 was a 5-speed automatic transmission marketed by BMW as “Steptronic.” 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 seamless gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing comfort and refinement over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 728iL offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness and quietness over sporty handling. While the 193 horsepower engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, it wasn’t as exhilarating as the higher-output engines available in the 740iL and 750iL. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.1 seconds, and the top speed was electronically limited to 140.43 mph. The Steptronic transmission contributed to a relaxed driving style, automatically selecting the appropriate gear for the driving conditions. Compared to the manual transmission options available in other 7 Series models, the automatic version offered less driver engagement but greater convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 728iL came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a sunroof. The extended wheelbase provided generous rear passenger space, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys. Optional extras included rear seat entertainment systems, upgraded leather trim, and a navigation system. The interior design emphasized elegance and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The E38 7 Series featured an independent suspension system with wishbone setups at both the front and rear. This suspension design 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. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. 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 critics noted that the engine lacked the power and performance of its larger siblings. Compared to the 740iL, the 728iL offered a more affordable entry point into the 7 Series range, but at the expense of performance. Fuel economy was reasonable for a large luxury sedan, averaging around 21.2 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the complexity of the vehicle.
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 provide many years of reliable service. Today, the 728iL represents a compelling value proposition for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable classic sedan with a proven track record.
