The BMW 745Li, part of the E66 long-wheelbase 7 Series produced from 2001 to 2005, represented a significant step forward in luxury and technology for the German automaker. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the 7 Series range, the 745Li catered to buyers seeking a blend of power, refinement, and extended rear passenger space. The “Li” designation signifies the long-wheelbase version, primarily aimed at markets like China where rear passenger comfort is highly valued. This model occupied a premium slot, sitting above the 735i and below the flagship 760i in terms of price and performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (E66) |
| Type (Engine) | 745Li (333 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.6 l/100 km (14.2 US mpg, 17 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 235.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 3600 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N62B44 |
| Engine displacement | 4398 cm3 (268.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.7 mm (3.26 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 | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.1 l (14.9 US qt | 12.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2490 kg (5489.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88 l (23.25 US gal | 19.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 5169 mm (203.5 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1492 mm (58.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3130 mm (123.23 in.) |
| Front track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 745Li is the N62B44 engine, a 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine represented a departure from the previous V8 offerings, featuring aluminum construction, double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, and BMW’s variable valve timing (VANOS) system. The N62 utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produced 333 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 331.9 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. Paired with the N62 was the Steptronic 6-speed automatic transmission, offering both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, contributing to the overall refined driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration with fuel efficiency, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 745Li offered a compelling driving experience, blending power with a luxurious ride. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the V8 engine provided ample acceleration, allowing for confident passing maneuvers and effortless highway cruising. The Steptronic transmission contributed to this smoothness, delivering seamless gear changes. Compared to the 735i (with its inline-six engine), the 745Li offered significantly more power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration. However, it wasn’t as focused on fuel economy. Compared to the range-topping 760i (with its V12 engine), the 745Li offered a good balance between performance and cost, providing a substantial power upgrade without the significantly higher price tag of the V12 model. The long wheelbase contributed to a more comfortable ride, particularly for rear passengers, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 745Li came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, wood trim, and power-adjustable front seats with memory function. Standard technology included a multi-function steering wheel, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. The long wheelbase translated into increased rear legroom, making it a particularly appealing option for chauffeured transport. Optional extras included features like a rear entertainment system, active suspension, and upgraded leather options. The dashboard layout was typical of BMW at the time, prioritizing functionality and a driver-focused design.
Chassis & Braking
The E66 7 Series featured a robust chassis designed for both comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized spring struts, while the rear employed a coil spring setup. The 745Li was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, prioritizing isolation from road imperfections over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 745Li was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the car’s size and weight could make it feel less agile than some of its competitors. Fuel economy was also a point of criticism, as the V8 engine consumed a significant amount of fuel, especially in urban driving conditions. Compared to the 735i, the 745Li offered a substantial performance upgrade, but at a higher price point and with reduced fuel efficiency. Against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8, the 745Li held its own, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology.
Legacy
The N62B44 engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including oil leaks and cooling system vulnerabilities. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and coolant flushes, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of this engine. The Steptronic transmission is also generally reliable, but requires proper servicing to prevent issues. Today, the E66 745Li represents an affordable entry point into the world of BMW luxury. Well-maintained examples can still provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with a vehicle of this age and complexity. The E66 generation, including the 745Li, is remembered for its innovative features and its role in establishing BMW as a leader in the luxury car segment.
