Newbie Question: 740iL or 750iL

[Ashael]

Hi all, first time visitor/poster.
I've been considering purchasing a used Bimmer for a little bit now and have almost got it all figured out. I thought I had it narrowed down to a '96 740iL when I noticed that 750iLs were in many cases less expensive. Besides probably less fuel efficient, what would cause these V-12s to be cheaper than V-8s? Maintenance costs? Or is there some major detraction from the V-12s? I must say the gearhead in me is intrigued about owning a V-12, but if it's a negligible gain in performance for a loss in poise/handling, I think I'll stick with the 740..

Somewhat as a sidenote is a '96 7-series a good choice for a first time Bimmerhead? Seems like a great combination of space and grace. Any recommendations y'all might provide could be greatly appreciated. Please forgive me if there is a topic here addressing these issues. I glanced through looking for one... but was too lazy^^.
Thanks
Ash

 

[Big Daddy]

The 750 is a wonderful car with loads of power, however they can be expensive to repair. Plug wires $600 per bank, two caps, two rotors, two air filters, two fuel filters, etc. A R&R of the upper pan gasket for leaks (a common problem) $1200. DK motors (drive by wire) $900 each and there are two of those too. I think I would stick with the 740 if it were me.

 

[selavia]

Not to mention the fact that many places (at least in MD) will not service the v12.

 

[MrElussive]

Unfortunately, what is stupid about the 750 is that it was only marginally faster than the 740. The 740 is packing a 4.4 liter V8, 282 horsepower. The 750's V12 (I believe it's 5.4 liters, but I'm not sure) is pushing only 322 or 325hp. The 0-60 time for the 740 is 6.9 seconds and the time for the 750 is 6.6 seconds. As you can see, the performance difference is very small, which is why most people go with the 740. I think it is simply supply & demand which makes the 750 so cheap....a lot of used car buyers don't even know that a BMW 750i/iL exists.

 

[John59]

The 750iL is objectively a better car, however, repair costs can be very substantial.
I recently replaced the transmission in my 1997 750iL for $6,600.

 

[Big Daddy]

And the 750 is a 5 liter 300 hp car, well at least in the e32 models.

 

[bahnstormer]

the hp #'s aren't too important as that is peak
what u don't see is the super flat torque curve
of a V12 that'll pull anywhere u want it to =]
its a joy to drive, but an investment

 

[ambaker]

I'm looking at a used 750iL also. However the dealer is offering a 5 year 100,000 mile warranty for an additional $1,200. Looks like the warranty might be a reasonable investment.