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1999 7 Series Review

The 7 Series literally wraps all controls around the driver, from the door panel to the steering wheel to the center console. Comfortably in command, this is the perfect travel environment.

With practical elegance, clearly, these are performance sedans with abundance of comfort and styling features that will delight even the most discerning, luxury-minded enthusiast. And, just as clearly, this is a superior value for a truly impressive automobile.

Even before you step in, your senses are rewarded. Rich leather, fine wood. The question no longer is whether your car has all the comforts of home, but whether your home has all the comforts of your car. The BMW Audiophile Hi-Fi sound system (Optional on 740i & 740il) envelops you in superb sound from 14 speakers, and even lets you custom-tailor the acoustic environment - concert hall, jazz club, cathedral? Dual cupholders glide out of recessed panels for both front and rear passengers.

Ensconced in an elegant environment of burnished wood and luxurious leather, the driver confidently takes charge. The center console's on-board computer lets you pre-set, change, or access a wealth of data about your trip. You can set it to automatically ventilate the car while you're away; compute average fuel usage; and calculate distances to your destinations, estimated arrival time, and travel range to "empty". Softly gathered leather and gleaming wood extend throughout the tasteful travel environment of the rear passenger area. BMW has a deep-seated philosophy that the quintessential driver's car should be just as perfect for those who share the trip.

Many of the most frequently used controls are right on the steering wheel. Thus, with minimal distraction and maximum convenience, you can actuate a wide range of functions. For example, at a touch of a button you can select the radio or telephone; search through tape or CD; and adjust the volume.

The large analog dials providing primary information are easy to read at a glance - day or night. Readouts from the onboard computer keep you informed on a variety of functions, such as outside temperature, or if you are driving above your pre-set speed.

Ensconced in the cockpit of a BMW, you're quite aware that you are at the wheel of a vehicle designed with the driver in mind. Everything literally wraps around you. Controls are in natural, logical places. Analog dials are large and easy to read especially with night illumination. You appreciate the digital read-outs from the on-board computer that keeps you informed on a variety of functions. the 7-series cockpit reflects BMW's philosophy that the automobile should be an extension of the driver.

The multi-zone construction of the seats is designed with a combination of firm support for back and thighs and soft cushioned comfort. The seat adjusts to the occupant, so that you and your passenger will arrive relaxed and less fatigued. A memory system adjusts the driver's seat, seat belt height, steering wheel and outside mirrors to a choice of three pre-set positions - a benefit when there are several drivers or valet parking.

The unique characteristic of a BMW is its spirited, responsive power on demand. The 4.4 liter V8 power plant in the 740i/iL is one of the most technologically advanced engines in the world. It delivers 282 hp at 5700 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm, all beautifully. The 750iL's extensively evolved V12 engine commands an impressive 322 hp at 5000 rpm and 361 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm, while running smoothly and quietly and effortlessly achieves 0-100 kph in just 6.7 seconds, thrilling those who appreciate truly exhilarating driving.

Engine management is provided by Digital Motor Electronics (DME), individual ignition coils and cylinder-selective knock control. This highly sophisticated system analyzes and then actually fine-tunes the engine hundreds of times a second. Each cylinder is constantly adjusted to maximum operating efficiency under virtually all conditions. DME even has many fail-safe programs in the unlikely event of an electrical fault, it can reconfigure itself to bypass the problem. And DME has the incredible ability to diagnose itself for quick and efficient trouble-shooting.

Complemented by a 5-speed adaptive automatic transmission, a brilliant development of the conventional automatic transmission control system, Adaptive Transmission Control shifts between gears according to the way you drive. It combines maximum safety with the kind of brilliant technical concept that adds even more pleasure to driving an automatic transmission.

ASC+T All Season Traction Control ensures even more reliable traction and retention of the chosen line when accelerating in a straight line or on a corner. How does it work? ASC+T reduces engine torque as soon as a wheel tends to spin, for instance, on a sheet of ice. If this action is not sufficient to restore tire grip, the T function (traction control) takes over and the wheel brake is applied, provided that road speed is not above 100 km/h. Torque is reduced by the engine's own management system. In this way, ASC+T keeps the car as stable as possible on all surfaces and in critical driving situations. The system includes engine drag torque regulation, to prevent the driven wheels from locking momentarily on a slippery surface if the level of engine braking becomes too high.

Up to a speed of 40 km/h, traction control has the same effect as a conventional limited-slip differential. Since the left and right wheels can be braked independently, ASC+T is comparable to one of these devices with a locking action of almost 100 percent. But it can be switched off in unusual situations where complete suppression of wheel spin may be undesirable, for instance when rocking the car free on a soft, yielding surface.

The secrets behind BMW's fantastic handling are in the imaginative technologies that empower the driver as never before. Responsiveness is so quick and positive, it's as is these cars could anticipate your every move. The 7-Series is ideal for discerning owners who want luxurious comfort and a rewarding driving experience. The taut steering and suspension systems of a BMW will spoil you for driving any other car. The quick response to your moves seems almost telepathic. Near 50/50 weight distribution and a wide track assure road-holding stability that's truly impressive. Stop quickly. Move in and out of traffic with confidence. 4 channel ABS brakes, Servotronic steering system, the double-pivot front suspension and the innovative integral link rear suspension systems combine to form a championship team that builds driving confidence while communicating essential information about the road.

Safety has been a cornerstone of BMW's philosophy for decades. It even has a name: Fully Integrated Road Safety Technology - a comprehensive system of active and passive safety features designed to help avoid accidents, as well as help protect occupants during and after an accident. Safety is a priority for BMW. The exceptionally rigid steel body acts as protective passenger "safety cage". Front and rear collisions up to 15 kph are absorbed by compressible "crush tubes" that help prevent costly damage. Only at higher impact speeds do structural supports begin to deform, dissipating impact energy to help protect occupants. Newly integrated technology tailors deployment of the new front & side airbags and front automatic seat belt tensioners to specific circumstances. In certain frontal impacts of less severity than would require airbag deployment, only the belt tensioners are activated. And in severe impacts, if the passenger seat is not occupied, the airbag on that side is not deployed, saving repair costs after an accident.

Protection for your car against theft or joy-riding is assured to a previously unknown standards by a standard alarm system and the electronic immobilizer. The immobilizer uses an electronically coded chip in the otherwise conventional ignition key. This transmits one of a hundred billion possible codes, which has to be identified correct before the engine can be started.

How do you measure satisfaction, pleasure and security? These are intangible values that generate repeat customers for any product. So it is not surprising that many who choose the 7-Series have previously driven a BMW. Quality is inherent in every aspect of a BMW - in the manufacture of each component that goes into our vehicles, and in customer care that starts in the showroom and continues in programs that help you protect and maintain your BMW. BMW's commitment to your driving pleasure and peace of mind begins with our engineers' obsession to create The Ultimate Driving Experience.