1 of 2 - 1/4/2000

Atlanta, GA  1996 BMW 740I 24,698 mi V-8, 4.4-liter

The "big" BMW has a reputation for doing everything well. LR agrees but there have been some problems which prevent her from recommending her BMW to others. Her 740i got excellent marks in several categories. She indicates her BMW "handles well for a big car..." She also notes that the seats are comfortable and the interior is very roomy. The BMW has plenty of power and accelerates, passes and handles hills breathlessly. LR's BMW stops well and the transmission works perfectly. However, there are a few concerns. The price of a 740i is steep and LR mentions that she does not think her 740i "is worth the money that you pay for it." She has had some recalls and she is not pleased with her dealer service department. The climate control has been a problem and repairs required that the vehicle remain in the shop for two weeks. In fact, at the time LR took her survey, her BMW was having stalling problem for which she was going to have to take it back to the shop. Overall, it seems steep cost, repeated problems and poor service have discouraged LR. She cannot recommend this vehicle.

Overall Rating:

 2 of 2 - 1/10/2000

Lafayette, CA  2000 BMW 740I 2,000 mi V-8, 282 hp

"This car is the best sedan I have ever driven. I have owned Jaguars, Mercedes, Lexus and other BMWs even a 740i) and can comfortably say none match the ride, handling and acceleration [of this car]."

Survey Responses:

City Handling?	5	City noise?	5
Highwy hndling?	5	Highway noise?	5
Ease of parking?	5	Wind noise?	5
Turning?	5	Fit and Finish?	5
Cornering?	5	Interior wear?	5
Accelearation?	5	Exterior wear?	5
Passing ease?	5	Electrical?	5
Hill climbing?	5	Transmission?	5
Seat comfort?	5	Braking?	5
Air-conditioning	5	Spacious interior?	5
Heat/defrost?	5	Repairs?	No
Storage/Cargo?	5	Buy again?	Yes
Gauges are clear?	5	Recommend?	Yes
Ride comfort?	5	Good Value?	Yes
		TOTAL	120
		AVERAGE	5.00

GREEN LIGHT MEANS GO!