1995-2001 BMW 7-Series: Road Test

Ride quality is excellent--as it should be. That's a benefit of the car's sophisticated suspension design and its bump-flattening weight. Brakes are well up to the task of coping with so much heft. In fact, they're capable of short and stable emergency stops in most any situation. A 740 model has enough low-end muscle to accelerate briskly from a standstill and permit swift passing at highway speeds. The V8 is strong enough, and so silky, that we see little need to pay so much more for a V12. Gas mileage is discouraging--again, no big surprise. We've averaged only 13.2 mpg in a 750iL, with a third of the driving on highways. Frugal it is not. A 740iL did better at 18.8 mpg overall, with more than half of its miles taking place on the highway. Another 740iL returned 16.5 mpg overall. There's definitely no shortage of interior of cargo space in a 740i. The long wheelbase 740iL or 750iL has more passenger room than most family sedans, as well as unusually easy all-around entry/exit. Seats are supportive and comfortable for long drives, in all models. Other bonuses include clear gauges, controls that are strategically placed for easy access, and a multitude of standard amenities. Unfortunately, having so many gadgets means a lot of buttons and switches--and not all of them are clearly marked. Worst offender is the combination climate/audio/cell-phone display, which is likely to confuse new owners. Although it works effectively, the available in-dash navigation system, with its video screen and cryptic controls, seems sharply at odds with BMW's no-nonsense driving philosophy. Flawless workmanship and impressive materials are the rule in big BMWs. All models feel stout and substantial from behind the wheel. Detail finish is nothing short of exemplary throughout, though one test car suffered several rattles.

Value for the Money
BMW builds great automobiles, no doubt about it. Then again, so does Mercedes-Benz. Which is best for you if shopping in this stratospheric league? That's a toss-up, which should be a pleasure to ponder.