1998 BMW 7 Series 740Il: Power, Precision, and Performance Engine Specs
The 1998 BMW 7 Series 740Il stands as a benchmark in executive luxury sedans, driven by a potent inline-six engine renowned for its smooth power delivery and refined engineering. This V8-powered powerplant—though technically a 3.5-liter inline-six in this generation—delivers exceptional performance, blending elegance with raw capability that continues to impress automotive enthusiasts decades later.
The 1998 BMW 7 Series 740Il featured a 3.5-liter inline-six engine producing 285 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Though marketed slightly as a 740Il—often associated with the V8—this engine delivered a balanced blend of responsiveness and refinement, perfectly suited for the 7 Series’ plush ride and intelligent handling dynamics.
Inline-Six Excellence in a Luxury Chassis
Built with precision, the inline-six engine emphasized smoothness and efficiency, leveraging advanced aluminum block technology and double overhead cams for reliable performance. Its compact design allowed for optimal packaging within the 7 Series’ sleek, aerodynamic body, enhancing both interior space and driving dynamics while maintaining the brand’s signature balance of comfort and control.
The 740Il’s engine was tuned for effortless acceleration, achieving 0–60 mph in around 7.5 seconds with a top speed of approximately 150 mph, a respectable feat for its era. Its smooth torque curve and refined power delivery made it ideal for long-distance luxury driving, blending sporty engagement with everyday usability. Combined with the 7 Series’ adaptive suspension, the engine’s performance translated seamlessly into a commanding yet comfortable ride.
Engine Integration with 7 Series Technology
Under the hood, the 3.5L inline-six worked in harmony with BMW’s 5-speed manual transmission, offering crisp shifts and driver control. The optional 4-speed automatic provided a more relaxed driving experience, preserving the engine’s performance while adapting to varied driving styles—ensuring the 740Il remained versatile for both track days and city commutes.
Though production ended in the late 1990s, the 1998 BMW 7 Series 740Il engine remains a celebrated piece of automotive history. Its engineering set a standard for BMW’s future luxury models, combining performance with refinement. Today, it draws admiration from collectors and enthusiasts alike, celebrated for its smooth power, timeless design, and role in defining the 7 Series’ legacy as a benchmark in executive luxury sedans.
Preserving a Performance Icon
Restoration and preservation of the 740Il engine continue to be a passion project for BMW aficionados, highlighting its enduring appeal. With proper maintenance, these engines remain reliable time capsules of a transformative era in luxury automotive engineering, proving that true performance transcends generations.
The 1998 BMW 7 Series 740Il engine represents a pinnacle of refined power and engineering precision, merging the robustness of a high-output inline-six with the sophistication of a luxury sedan. Its legacy endures not just in performance, but in the enduring status it holds among classic car collectors and performance enthusiasts—making it a true icon of late 1990s BMW excellence.
Detailed specs and features for the Used 1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL including dimensions, horsepower, engine, capacity, fuel economy, transmission, engine type, cylinders, drivetrain and more. 1998 BMW 740iL (aut. 5) (model for North America U.S.) car specifications & performance data review 1998 BMW 740iL (aut.
5). Specs datasheet with technical data and performance data plus an analysis of the direct market competition of BMW 740iL (aut. The BMW E38 is the third generation of the BMW 7 Series luxury cars and was produced from 1994 until 2001.
The E38 replaced the E32 7 Series and was produced with petrol and turbo-diesel straight-six and V8 engines, along with a petrol V12 flagship model. Three wheelbase lengths were available - short (i), long (iL) and Limousine (L7). Specs of BMW 7 Series Long (E38) 740iL 4.4 (286 Hp) Steptronic /1996, 1997, 1998/.
Technical specifications for the 1998-2001 facelift BMW 740iL (E38) 4 door sedan. Find & compare performance, practicality, chassis, brakes, top speed, acceleration, suspension, engine, weights, luggage & more. BMW 7 series 1998 4.4 petrol description Sedan BMW 740iL has been produced from September, 1998 to November, 2001.
It has eight-cylinder petrol engine with displacement of 4.4 litres, which produces power of 286 horsepower on 5400 rpm and torque 440 Nm (Newton metres) on 3600 revolutions per minute. This 8-cylinder 32-valve engine camshaft is driven by chain (What is an engine chain and belt. Explore the comprehensive engine parts diagram for the 1998 BMW 740iL, providing essential knowledge for repairs and maintenance.
Research the 1998 BMW 740 at Cars.com and find specs, pricing, MPG, safety data, photos, videos, reviews and local inventory. A 1998 BMW 7 Series 740iL Sedan 4D has depreciated $105 or 3% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $2,999 and trade-in value of $1,252. Getting a 1998 BMW 7-Series 740iL? See complete review with photos, cost, specs, dimensions & horsepower info.
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