This is the 4th BMW I have owned. I started with a 320i, then a 325e, then upgraded to a 525i with 5speed, then a Mercedes c-class (major P.O.S.), then the 740il. Mine is dark blue with beige leather, tinted windows and the GPS. I am 6'4 and comfortably fit in the front and back seat. The trunk is huge and comes with a bungee cargo net and rubber tie down straps.

People check you out when you drive this car, especially women (girls don't seem to interested, however).

For a heavy car (4400 lbs.) it accelerates nicely. It doesn't jack rabbit off the line but in luxurious fashion builds to a crescendo of power release. Passing on the freeway or merging from the on ramp is where the performance is truly appreciated. Watch out though, you'll be doing 100+ in no time! Considering the performance, gas mileage is respectable for a V8 engine of this size. I get an average of 22 MPG with 50% of my driving done on the freeway.

The handling is phenomenal for a car of this size and weight.
It is truly enjoyable to drive on a windy road. It's like having a grown up car made for grownups who are still kids at heart. All of the controls are well placed, obviously the result of thoughtful ergonomics. The stereo automatically gets louder at higher speed to compensate for increased noise---a very nice feature indeed. The seats have so many adjustments that perfectly position the driver and front passenger for maximum comfort that long drives are appreciated especially when you turn on the seat massager and heater. One feature that I absolutly love is the heated steering wheel, don't know how I ever lived without that.

Utilizing the transmission in automatic sport mode while turning off the DSC allows for quicker jumps off the line. I have left many cars in the dust including some Mustang GT's. It is most fun to out accelerate those Fast-and-Furious-wannabe rice rockets. I love the look on the kid's faces when I LET them pull up to me at the next light.

The car is a well balanced blend of comfort and performance for its intended purpose--safe and comfortable transportation for 5 adults. BMW could have made it quicker or tightened the suspension but that would sacrifice ride quality and sound levels. The car is an exquisite compromise.

After driving it for 6 months, I love it more than ever. I have just ordered (They are not stocked in the US, had to be shipped from Austria) a Remus free flow exhaust which will be installed as soon practical. That will be immediately followed by a Dinan Cold air intake, larger throttle body and stage 3 software. I expect to achieve over 310 hp and a throaty-sporty exhaust note.

I researched these cars thoroughly before deciding that the 2001 740iL was the model I wanted. The 2002 and newer cars are extremely problematic with regards to the electronic systems. Even the service writers at the dealer have told me that I made the right choice.

This car is an excellent value in the used marketplace. Mine was exactly 3 years old when I bought it just off of a lease with only 46,000 miles and still under factory warranty. It is a CPO (Certified Pre Owned) vehicle so I am covered to 100k miles. I paid about half of what this car cost brand new yet I am enjoying 100% of its utility---that's a bargain in my book!

I did have a few small problems with the car during the first 2 months:

The right rear door window motor became sticky and was replaced under warranty.

The fuel pump failed and was also replaced.

Cars are mechanical things and parts are expected to fail. I am not at all swayed from my overall opinion of the car based upon these minor issues.

I have had great experiences and reliability with all of the BMW's that I have owned. I will be brand loyal for many years to come.

I can't wait until 2007 so I can pick up a 2004 6 series with the 4.4l engine and 6 speed stick......for half price!

Amount Paid (US$): 34500
Condition: Used
Model Year: 2001
Model and Options: 740iL