
The BMW 735i spans two legendary 7 Series generations — the E32 and E38 — pairing a 3.5-litre inline-six with rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan architecture to deliver BMW's flagship executive experience in a more accessible specification than the V8 variants.
The BMW 735i designation covers two distinct generations: the E32 7 Series (1986–1994) with the M30B35 3.5-litre naturally aspirated inline-six, and the E38 7 Series (1994–2001) with the M62B35 3.5-litre V8 in markets where V8 and inline-six shared the 735i badge, or the M52 3.5L six-cylinder. The E32 735i established the 7 Series as a driver's luxury car with 211 hp, while the E38 version brought significantly enhanced refinement and technology.
The E32 7 Series was a landmark design — functional, elegant, and technologically progressive for its time. The M30B35 inline-six is a strong, well-engineered engine with a long service life when properly maintained. The E38 735i, launched in 1994, refined everything that made the E32 great — better NVH, improved suspension geometry, and a more aerodynamic body with lower drag.
For Azerbaijan buyers, the 735i represents an affordable entry into the E32/E38 7 Series ownership experience. These are genuine luxury saloons with genuine BMW driving dynamics — not just comfortable, but genuinely engaging. Clean, well-maintained examples of both generations are increasingly rare and represent good value for buyers who appreciate analogue luxury cars.
Exterior design, cabin layout, and real-world use reference images. Broken links gracefully fall back to text tiles.
| Variant | Engine | Power | 0–100 km/h | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 735i (E32) | M30B35 3.5L NA I6 | 211 hp | 7.8 sec | Classic analogue luxury |
| 735i (E38) | 3.5L I6 variants | 235–238 hp | 7.2 sec | Refined modern-classic |
| 735iL | 3.5L I6 variants | 211–235 hp | 7.5–8.0 sec | Long wheelbase comfort |
Competitor choice in Azerbaijan should account not only for headline specs, but for service ecosystem, parts availability, and ownership confidence over your actual routes.
| Model | Core Strength | Main Compromise (Local Context) |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz 300SE/350SDL (W126) | Extremely robust, legendary longevity | Less driver-focused than E32 BMW, more conservative styling |
| Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40) | Distinctive British character, XK inline-six | Parts very difficult to source in Azerbaijan |
| Volvo 760/940 GLE | Safety, simpler mechanics | Not a luxury flagship in the same class as 735i |
| Lexus LS 400 (Z30) | Exceptional reliability, silent V8 | Less driver-focused, not available in Azerbaijan in period |
BMW has an established service presence in Baku through authorised dealerships and independent specialists familiar with the brand. Parts supply for common maintenance items is generally reliable, though specialist components for performance models and older generations may require additional lead time.
Adjust these values for your driving profile. All figures are estimates for planning purposes only.
Inspect each point thoroughly before committing to a purchase. Request service records, VIN validation, and any recall completion documentation.
The E38 is a more modern and refined car in every measurable way — better ergonomics, improved NVH, superior electronics, and more powerful variants. The E32 has a more pure, analogue character and is arguably a purer driver's luxury car. For daily use, the E38 is the more practical choice. For classic car character and historical significance, the E32 is the more interesting acquisition.
The 740i V8 is faster, more refined, and more powerful. The 735i inline-six offers a different character — lighter, more linear, and with a distinctive inline-six sound. The 740i is the more complete luxury car; the 735i is the more driver-focused choice. In terms of running costs, the six-cylinder 735i is modestly cheaper to fuel and service.
The BMW 735i in either E32 or E38 specification represents extraordinary value for a genuine luxury flagship of its era. Both generations deliver real BMW quality, genuine driver engagement, and a standard of fit and finish that remains impressive. Buy clean, well-documented, and with attention to the specific generation's maintenance priorities — and the 735i will provide years of rewarding classic luxury car ownership.
BakuWheels uses cookies to improve your experience, analyse site traffic, and personalise content. By clicking Accept All, you consent to our use of cookies. Learn more in our Cookie Policy.