The BMW 735iL, part of the E38 7 Series “Long” wheelbase generation produced from 1998 to 2001, represented a significant evolution in BMW’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the E38 lineup – slotted between the 728i and the high-performance 750iL – the 735iL aimed to balance luxury, performance, and a more accessible price point. The “L” designation indicated the extended wheelbase, providing increased rear passenger legroom, a key feature for the model’s target demographic in markets like the United States and Asia. This facelifted version of the E38 incorporated styling updates and refinements over the initial 1994 launch, solidifying its position as a technological showcase for the BMW brand.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (E38, facelift 1998) |
| Type (Engine) | 735iL (235 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 | 17.2 l/100 km (13.7 US mpg, 16.4 UK mpg, 5.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 243 km/h (150.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 127.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 235 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 345 Nm @ 3800 rpm (254.46 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M62B35 |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.9 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 1845 kg (4067.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 95 l (25.1 US gal | 20.9 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 (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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 | 235/60 R16 W |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 735iL was the M62B35 engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine represented a departure from the previous M70/M73 V12s, offering a lighter and more compact design. The M62 featured all-aluminum construction, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, and a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 235 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 345 Nm (254 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. Paired with this engine was a 5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, BMW’s branded automatic with a manual shift mode. This transmission was designed for smooth and refined gear changes, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. The engine code, M62B35, is crucial for identifying specific parts and maintenance requirements.
Driving Characteristics
The 735iL, with its automatic transmission, offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its 6-speed manual counterparts or the more powerful 750iL. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.8 seconds, and top speed was electronically limited to 151 mph. While not a sports sedan, the 735iL provided ample power for comfortable highway cruising and effortless overtaking. The Steptronic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick downshifts. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed driving, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the 728i, the 735iL offered a noticeable performance boost, while remaining more economical than the range-topping 750iL.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 735iL 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. The extended wheelbase translated into generous rear legroom, making it a popular choice for chauffeur-driven executives. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, upgraded leather, active suspension, and various driver assistance features. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most customization occurring through the selection of individual options.
Chassis & Braking
The E38 7 Series featured a robust chassis with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear employed an integral-link setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The 735iL was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 735iL was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and that the car lacked the sporting character of some of its European rivals. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a V8-powered luxury sedan, averaging around 19 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 728i, the 735iL offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Against the 750iL, it represented a more sensible option for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in performance.
Legacy
The M62B35 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to certain issues with age, including oil leaks and cooling system failures. The Steptronic automatic transmission, if not properly maintained, can also experience problems. However, with regular servicing and preventative maintenance, these engines and transmissions can remain in good working order for many years. Today, the E38 735iL is considered a classic luxury sedan, appreciated by enthusiasts for its build quality, comfortable ride, and timeless design. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, appealing to collectors and those seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience.
