A used BMW 7 Series from the second generation offers a chance to own a piece of automotive history for less than 20,000 euros. However, buyers should proceed with caution. A low sticker price for a vehicle nearly forty years old rarely reflects the eventual cost of ownership, as repairs for older luxury machines can accumulate quickly. The current listings show a wide range of condition and price, highlighting the difference between a purchase price and total expense.
A Luxury Flagship of the 1980s
The E32 generation arrived in 1986, formally replacing the original 7 Series. At the absolute top of the lineup sat the 750i, a powerful sedan featuring a 5.0-liter V12 engine. This engine produced 300 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. It was not originally part of the plan for this model. The V12 only made it into production after a significant internal struggle within BMW. The car was clearly designed for executives. It served as a modern limousine compared to its predecessors. It also provided a direct response to competitors like Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar.
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While the V12 offers status, the listings suggest most of these vehicles have been used as company cars, enduring years of commuting traffic. This implies that the suspension bushings and electrical connections have likely seen more stress than a classic car kept in a climate-controlled garage. Checking the maintenance logs is especially important here, as these systems can degrade significantly with decades of use.
Choosing the Right Engine for the Budget
Not every buyer needs a twelve-cylinder engine. The 730i, which utilizes a six-cylinder configuration, represents a different option. It is often less expensive and mechanically simpler than the V12 or the later V8 models. Comfort remains a strong point across the range. The large sedan handles long-distance driving well, and the rear seats offer enough space for adults. This makes it a practical choice for daily transport despite the age.
However, a cheap E32 requires close examination. The car is looking a bit tired, for want of a better term. This means checking the maintenance history, the bodywork, and the technical condition is essential. Repairs on a luxury car from this era can be complex. A V12 engine often demands more attention and money than a six- or eight-cylinder variant, adding another layer of scrutiny for potential owners.
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What Sellers Are Asking Now
The current market for the E32 varies widely based on mileage and condition. One example listed is a 730i from 1990 with 115,000 kilometers on the clock. It is being sold for 5,400 euros, though the description notes it is in rough condition. The price gap is significant on the other end of the spectrum. A 740i from 1994 with just 94,000 kilometers is listed for 44,500 euros. Most vehicles fall somewhere in between, though the mileage is generally high.
An attractive option is a 730i from 1994 with 113,996 kilometers. This black car is located in The Hague and is priced at 18,950 euros. The seller includes a new safety inspection with the purchase. This vehicle balances the lower complexity of the six-cylinder engine with a price point that falls just under the 20,000 euro mark.
