735i (1996-2001)

Can you afford a 1996-2001 BMW 7 Series 735i in 2025?

# 1996-2001 BMW 735i The E38-generation BMW 735i represents the Bavarian automaker's flagship sedan from its pre-iDrive era. Powered by a smooth 3.5-liter inline-six producing 235 horsepower, it offered effortless highway cruising wrapped in timeless Chris Bangle-influenced styling. **Critical Reception:** Enthusiasts praise its hydraulic steering feel, build quality, and analog driving experience—qualities increasingly rare in modern BMWs. The naturally aspirated M30/M52 engine is considered more reliable than the V8 alternatives. **Famous For:** Epitomizing 1990s executive luxury; appearing in countless films; exceptional rear-seat comfort. **Infamous For:** Complex electronics that age poorly; expensive maintenance including cooling system failures and pixel-fade instrument clusters. **Best Suited For:** Enthusiasts seeking analog luxury sedan character, weekend cruisers, and collectors who appreciate pre-electronic BMW driving dynamics. Budget-conscious buyers should establish substantial maintenance reserves.

The E38 735i features expensive maintenance typical of luxury German cars: complex V8 timing chain guides ($3,000-4,000), electronic issues (pixel display failures, window regulators), and costly suspension repairs. Insurance runs high due to luxury classification. Generally reliable mechanically if maintained, but parts and specialist labor are premium-priced. Fuel economy is poor at 15-18 MPG combined.

Price Range

$15,000 - $35,000

Market price for 2025

Estimated Annual Costs

Insurance:$800

Maintenance:$3,500

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