The BMW 740i, part of the E65 generation (specifically the 2005-2008 facelift), represented a significant step forward in luxury and technology for the German automaker. Introduced as a successor to the E38 7 Series, the E65 aimed to blend traditional BMW driving dynamics with a more modern, technologically advanced interior. The 740i, positioned as a mid-range offering within the lineup, featured a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 engine paired with BMW’s Steptronic automatic transmission. This configuration offered a balance between performance and refinement, appealing to buyers seeking a luxurious experience without the outright sportiness of the 750i or the fuel economy focus of the 730i.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series (E65, facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 740i (306 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.3 l/100 km (14.4 US mpg, 17.3 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 161.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 3500 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N62B40A |
| Engine displacement | 4000 cm3 (244.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.1 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2475 kg (5456.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88 l (23.25 US gal | 19.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 5039 mm (198.39 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2990 mm (117.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 740i was the N62B40A engine, a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine featured an aluminum block and heads, double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, and BMW’s VANOS variable valve timing system on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The N62 engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produced 306 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Paired with the engine was the ZF 6HP26 Steptronic automatic transmission, a six-speed unit known for its smooth shifting and responsiveness. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 740i offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 750i, the 4.0-liter V8 provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident acceleration. The Steptronic transmission contributed to the smooth power delivery, and the gear ratios were tuned for a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 730i (typically equipped with a straight-six engine), the 740i offered significantly more power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more relaxed feel during highway driving. However, it didn’t quite match the raw performance of the flagship 750i with its V12 engine. The 6HP26 transmission, while generally reliable, could sometimes exhibit slightly hesitant shifts compared to more modern automatic transmissions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 740i came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a sunroof. Optional extras included features like active suspension, heated and ventilated seats, a rear entertainment system, and upgraded leather trim. The interior design of the E65 7 Series was characterized by its flowing lines and emphasis on driver ergonomics. The iDrive infotainment system, while innovative for its time, was often criticized for its complex menu structure and steep learning curve.
Chassis & Braking
The E65 7 Series featured a robust chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The 740i typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and dynamic stability control (DSC) were standard safety features. The steering system utilized a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, but also provided good handling characteristics for a large luxury sedan.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2005-2008 facelift of the E65 7 Series addressed many of the criticisms leveled at the original model, particularly regarding its controversial styling and iDrive system. The 740i was generally well-received by critics as a balanced and refined luxury sedan. It offered a compelling alternative to its competitors, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Audi A8. Fuel economy was reasonable for a V8-powered luxury car, but it was still significantly lower than that of the 730i. Reliability was a mixed bag, with some owners reporting issues with the cooling system and electronic components.
Legacy
The E65 7 Series, including the 740i, represents a pivotal moment in BMW’s history. It was a bold and ambitious design that pushed the boundaries of automotive technology. While the N62 engine is known to require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding cooling system components, it remains a capable and relatively durable powerplant. Today, well-maintained E65 740i models can be found on the used car market at attractive prices, offering a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience for those willing to accept the potential maintenance costs associated with a vehicle of this age. The Steptronic transmission, when properly serviced, has proven to be a reliable component, contributing to the long-term usability of these vehicles.
