“Enter into a new world.”
After a year in production with just the straight 6, the second generation of BMW’s top-of-the-line 7-series sedan got a V12 option in 1988. This engine, designated M70 and BMW’s first production V12, used Bosch Motronic M fuel injection and made a fairly effortless 296 bhp from its 5.0 liter/304 ci size.
The late eighties were back when BMW’s number and letter designations still meant something, so the breakout of the 7-series with the V12 was this:
7 – series
50 – 5.0 liters
i – fuel injected
L – long wheelbase
The 750iL’s eye-popping base price was $69,000—about $193,300 in 2025 dollars, and 55% more than a 2026 760i xDrive sedan goes for. For all that money, the purchaser got almost every piece of equipment BMW could put in the car. Exterior and mechanical features included a ZF four-speed automatic, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, traction control, ZF’s Servotronic power steering, a self-leveling rear suspension, and Pirelli P600B 225/60VR-15 tires (a size still somewhat available) on 15-inch wheels. Inside, a driver’s side airbag, a trip computer, dual-zone air conditioning, and leather seats were all standard.
Options, Performance, & Period Reviews
Beyond this, there were a few options available; one was a limited-slip differential. In addition, the buyer of a 750iL was paying the dreaded $1,850 gas guzzler tax—the original EPA estimate was 12 city/17 highway (the modern equivalent would be 11 city/16 highway). With a capacious 27-gallon fuel tank, a 750iL owner could expect a range of 330 to 350 miles with a 10% fuel reserve.
I remember being in one of these cars when it was new, and I felt that it accelerated like a Learjet: weighing in at about 4,235 pounds, it still could do 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds and hit 155 mph—respectable sports car numbers in the late 1980s. At the time, Car and Driver called it “the sedan of choice when money is no object.”
The View From 2025
Like many BMWs, the 750iL does attract collector interest, and there is support from BMW car clubs. Maintenance costs can be daunting, and Hagerty does not track the 750iL—perhaps because they rarely trade hands. 750iLs do occasionally appear for sale in the Hemming’s Motor News classifieds, on eBay Motors, and on Bring A Trailer.
Make mine Salmon Silver, please, though Diamond Black also has its attractions.
I have also written about the 1982 733i sedan. Other BMWs I have written about include the 1983 633CSi coupe, the 1984 325e coupe, the 1985 535i sedan, the 1987 L6 coupe, the 1987 M6 coupe, and the 1988 M3 coupe.
Last updated August 2025.
Eighties Cars 