BMW 7 Series first generation

BMW 7 Series first generation
Photo: Trop86 / Wikimedia Commons · CC0

The BMW 7 Series first generation (1978–1987): dimensions, weights, reliability and the official figures of its 5 versions in the United States.

Model codes: E23 · Sold in: United States and Canada

Dimensions, weights and capacity

SpecificationNorth AmericaWikipedia
Dimensions
Length–4,860–5,014 mm
Width–1,800 mm
Height–1,430 mm
Wheelbase–2,795 mm
Weights and towing
Kerb weight–1,470–1,629 kg
Seats and space
Luggage space (EPA)368 L EPA–
Passenger space (EPA)2,662 L EPA–
Performance
Top speed–185–208 km/h
0–100 km/h–7.9–10.6 s
Torque–215–285 Nm

Ranges cover the generation’s versions and body styles; European and North American versions can differ. Sources: Wikipedia (en, de, es), US EPA fuel economy data. Wikipedia figures are used under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Reliability and owner reports

Owner complaints to NHTSA (US)

2 complaints for model years 1987–1987.

Complaints are reported by owners and not checked by NHTSA; they are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, so popular models have more. NHTSA owner complaints

All 5 versions of the BMW 7 Series first generation

United States 5 versions

Model years sold in the USA, from the EPA and the Department of Energy (fueleconomy.gov). MPG on the EPA test; litres per 100 km = 235.215 ÷ MPG.

Years and versionEngineFuelGearboxDriveConsumption (combined)CO₂
1986–1987(GUZZLER) (FFS) (MPFI), 2MODE3.4 LPetrol4-speed automaticRear-wheel drive15 MPG (15.7 L/100 km) EPA368 g/km
1987(GUZZLER) (FFS) (MPFI)3.4 LPetrol5-speed manualRear-wheel drive15 MPG (15.7 L/100 km) EPA368 g/km
1985–1986(GUZZLER) (FFS) · (GUZZLER) (FFS) (MPFI)3.4 LPetrol5-speed manualRear-wheel drive16 MPG (14.7 L/100 km) EPA345 g/km
1985(FFS)3.4 LPetrol4-speed automaticRear-wheel drive16 MPG (14.7 L/100 km) EPA345 g/km
1984(FFS) · (FFS) CA model3.2 LPetrol4-speed automatic–18 MPG (13.1 L/100 km) EPA307 g/km

Similar models from other brands

Official figures are measured on standard test procedures and differ between markets. Your consumption depends on how, where and in what conditions you drive.