'95 BMW 740iLHigh-tech luxury envelops the driver and passengers of the BMW 740iL, as they hide behind its tinted glass like starlets on Oscar night. The limolike, spacious interior features first-class footrests for the rear passengers, and enough elbowroom for professional basketball players. Concurrent with its entry in the three-way "Executive Suite" comparison in our August issue, it was decreed that the 740iL should be the next addition to the MT long-term fleet. Starting at $59,900 and adding a premium audio system, cold-weather package, traction control, "comfort" seats with memory, and even infrared parking distance control, it didn't take long to increase the total to $67,645. In its brief time in our stable, a privileged few have rapidly racked up the miles. We're waiting for the onboard computer that monitors the vehicle's use to indicate when it's time to schedule the 7-Series' first servicing-but with its self-tuning engine and maintenance-free transmission, we're expecting to see very little of our dealer in the coming year.
| Base price | $59,900 |
| Price as tested | $67,645 |
| Body style | 4-door, 5-pass. |
| Engine size/type | 4.0-liter V-8 |
| Transmission/driveline configuration | 4-speed auto./ front engine, rear drive |
| 0-60 mph, sec. | 7.9 |
| EPA mpg, city/highway | 16/24 |
| Total mileage | 8242 |
| Test mileage | 7218 |
| Fuel consumed, gal. | 400.2 |
| Fuel cost | $506.73 |
| Average mpg | 18.0 |
| Additional oil/cost | None |
| Routine maint. | None |
| Additional maint. | None |
| Previous maint. | None |
| Problem areas | None |
| Total operating cost | $506.73 |
| Operating cost/mile | 7.0 |