740 vs 750 considerations (archive)

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However, the biggest problem I had was finding a 740 that has had the block changed from the original nikasil. IMHO it is crazy to buy a 740 with the orig block unless it is still under the factory warranty (6 yr 100k mi) AND the car has already FAILED the leakdown test, so you know that you can be sure you will get a new Alusil block paid for by BMW....otherwise you run the risk that the engine won't start losing compresion at 110k mi, and you'll be S.O.L.

When I looked for my E32 (for about 6 mo's), I came to the conclusion that I would rather pay $11k for a '91 750, and spend $5k (ended up being $7k) making it "perfect" than spend $18 - $20k on a 740 that while in good shape would likely also need some big $$ put into it in the near future.

I respectfully disagree with an earlier statement that you should stick with the 6cyl....its just too small an engine for a 7er. The 4.0L V8 is an excellent motor, with the exception of the nikasil block, so if you find one that has the new block, I feel that it is a very reliable motor. Likewise, so is the V12....its very complex, but the issue with the 750 is more about the complexities of the ancillary components, not the engine itself. Yes, its tricky to work on, but with any E32, you better have a good bmw tech, 'cause the local corner mechanic is only gonna make a mess of it.

Finally, make sure you have at least a few years of maintenance and repair history on whichever you buy....there are a lot of things that almost always go wrong at certain points in the life of these cars (self leveling suspension, throttles V12, transmission, etc)....if the car has 100k on it and none of this has been replaced, the chances are about 75% you'll be doing all the replacement in the next 15k miles. So get the records, and get a pre-purch inspection, especially if you get the 750. They are awesome cars, but costs can be staggering if a lot of things need to be repaired or replaced.

Want to step up from my 1988 735. Great car, a bit underpowered, but nearing 200,000 miles and showing a bit of wear. (I travel a lot)

Have looked at several 92-94 740s and an 89 and 91 750. The 740s ran anywhere from $16,000 to $23,000. The 89 750 asking price was $9500, and the 91 was an even $12,000. Money plays some part in my future purchase of course, but willing to pay more for peace of mind and a top notch auto.
All cars I looked at had under 120,000 miles and good maintanence records. I want to narrow down my search and have the final two or three checked out by my mechanic before making my purchase.

After driving each of these models, I am truly torn. Both looked wonderful, the interiors were a delight, and power/performance a definite step up from my 735. The 750 seemed a bit smoother, and slightly more powerful (my imagination?) But, both were also older and require the maintence of the big 12.(Are they money pits?) Since this is new territory for me, which of these cars will give me the most in the "grins per mile" category (remember, I drive a great deal) the "best for you dollar" category, and the "overall peace of mind" category?

Anybody here owned both of these cars or have extensive experience driving both? Your help is greatly appreciated!

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