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BMW 735iL

Petrol Sedan 1987–1994 211 hp Germany

The BMW 735iL is the long-wheelbase version of the E32 7 Series — extending the classic luxury saloon's wheelbase for enhanced rear passenger comfort, combining the M30 inline-six with the spacious cabin of BMW's executive flagship of the late 1980s and early 1990s.

M30B35 I6
Engine
211 hp
Peak Power
8.0 sec
0–100 km/h
RWD
Drivetrain

Overview

The BMW E32 735iL is the long-wheelbase variant of the 735i, produced from 1987 to 1994. The 120 mm wheelbase extension transforms the rear passenger experience — adding knee room and a more limousine-appropriate sense of space — while the M30B35 3.5-litre naturally aspirated inline-six delivers the same 211 hp performance as the standard wheelbase 735i. This is the choice for buyers who prioritise rear passenger comfort without moving to the V8 territory of the 730i or 740i.

The E32 7 Series represents a transition point in BMW's flagship range: more modern than the E23, less powerful than the later E38 V8s, but with a character entirely its own. The M30 inline-six is BMW's long-running large-displacement six — durable, smooth, and with a service life that can exceed 300,000 km when properly maintained. The 735iL was a preferred choice for chauffeur service and executive transport through the early 1990s.

For Azerbaijan buyers, the E32 735iL is a collector's proposition — a car of genuine historical interest, solid build quality, and increasingly classic status. Values are very accessible, making condition the determining factor. The E32 735iL is best bought as a well-maintained, low-mileage example rather than a project — restoration costs can easily exceed the vehicle's value.

735iL in Pictures

Exterior design, cabin layout, and real-world use reference images. Broken links gracefully fall back to text tiles.

Key Specifications

  • Engine: M30B35 3.5L naturally aspirated inline-six, 211 hp / 305 Nm
  • Wheelbase: 3,070 mm (long wheelbase, 120 mm extra)
  • 0–100 km/h: approximately 8.0 seconds
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • Production: 1987–1994 (E32 generation)
  • Extended rear passenger legroom with optional rear air conditioning
  • Available with full BMW Individual specification options

Variant Comparison

VariantEnginePower0–100 km/hBest For
735i (E32)M30B35 3.5L NA I6211 hp7.8 secDriver-focused standard WB
735iL (E32)M30B35 3.5L NA I6211 hp8.0 secChauffeur rear-passenger comfort
730i (E32)M60 3.0L V8218 hp8.3 secV8 entry (later E32)

Competitor Snapshot

Competitor choice in Azerbaijan should account not only for headline specs, but for service ecosystem, parts availability, and ownership confidence over your actual routes.

ModelCore StrengthMain Compromise (Local Context)
Mercedes-Benz 300SEL (W126)W126 legendary build quality, LWB luxuryLess sporting character than E32; both are classic age cars
Jaguar XJ6LBritish luxury heritage, XK6 inline-sixParts exceptionally scarce in Azerbaijan
Cadillac DeVille / FleetwoodAmerican full-size luxuryNot available in Azerbaijan period market; no service presence
Volvo 760 GLESafety record, turbodiesel optionNot a luxury flagship comparison; fundamentally different class

Repair & Service in Azerbaijan

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.

  • M30 timing chain: check chain tension and guide condition — the M30 can develop guide wear with age
  • Cooling system: thermostat and water pump are primary M30 service items
  • Automatic gearbox (4-speed): fluid change maintains the ZF 4HP24 gearbox function
  • Rear suspension: E32 rear trailing arm bushings degrade with age — check for imprecision in handling
  • Electrical system: E32 wiring harnesses can develop insulation failure — inspect for any burnt or damaged wiring
  • Fuel injection service: M30 fuel injectors benefit from cleaning on high-mileage or infrequently run cars

Ownership Cost Estimator (Azerbaijan)

Adjust these values for your driving profile. All figures are estimates for planning purposes only.

  • Estimated annual fuel consumption: 1120 L
  • Estimated annual fuel cost: $784
  • Total annual ownership estimate: $5184
  • Average monthly ownership estimate: $432
  • M30B35 is one of BMW's most durable engines — proper servicing extends life well beyond 300,000 km
  • E32 is now a classic car: budget for classic car running costs, not modern car costs
  • Fuel consumption: 12–15 L/100km; the M30 is not a frugal engine but is predictably consistent
  • E32 electronics are now aged — some modules and components may be difficult to source
  • Consider the 735iL as an occasional or collection vehicle rather than a daily driver

Used 735iL Buying Checklist

Inspect each point thoroughly before committing to a purchase. Request service records, VIN validation, and any recall completion documentation.

  • M30 condition: oil level, coolant, inspect for any smoke or unusual smells on startup
  • Timing chain noise: listen for any rattle on cold start indicating chain stretch or guide wear
  • Rust inspection: E32 sills, wheel arches, and rear subframe area are susceptible on older examples
  • All electrical functions: windows, seats, sunroof, climate control — E32 has many powered features to test
  • Automatic gearbox: all ranges should engage smoothly; hesitation or roughness indicates service need
  • Body condition: check panel gaps and paint for accident repair or corrosion treatment
  • Service history: a car of this age needs documented maintenance to support confidence
  • Tyre condition: check for age — old tyres are unsafe regardless of tread depth

735iL FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers

Is the E32 735iL a practical ownership choice today?

The E32 735iL is a practical classic car for occasional or collection use, not a daily driver in the modern sense. Its age means some parts are becoming scarce, electronics can require specialist attention, and fuel consumption is significant. For a buyer who appreciates classic BMW character and wants an unusual but historically significant luxury car, the 735iL is rewarding and increasingly rare.

How does the M30 inline-six hold up at high mileage?

The M30B35 is one of BMW's most robust engines — properly serviced examples regularly exceed 300,000 km without major work. The main service items are timing chain condition, cooling system health, and regular oil changes with quality synthetic. An M30 with a full service history is genuinely long-lived.

Should You Buy the BMW 735iL?

A genuine classic BMW luxury saloon — best as a well-maintained, low-mileage collector piece.

The BMW E32 735iL is an increasingly rare classic — one of the last great analogue luxury BMWs before the electronic revolution. The M30 inline-six provides durable, characterful power, and the long-wheelbase body offers a genuinely impressive rear passenger environment. Buy the cleanest, best-documented example available in Azerbaijan's market and enjoy a piece of BMW history that will only become more appreciated over time.

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