The second generation of the BMW 7 Series (E32) was released in 1987 based on the idea to create an elegant and dynamic vehicle for the business class. For the first time in BMW history, the typical L-shaped rear lights appeared at the BMW 7 Series.
Some luxury options included integrated telephone and fax machines, a wine cooler, double glazing, traction control system, and a system that automatically increased spring pressure on the windscreen wipers, to keep them firmly pressed on the glass at Motorway speeds.
In 1987 a V12 engine was introduced in the form of a 750i limousine. The E32 (750i) was the first car adhering to BMW’s self-imposed speed limit of 250 km/h (155.37 mph).
The E32 also introduced the extended wheelbase version (indicated by an ‘L’ from German Lang, after the model number) with extra rear leg room compared to the standard 7 Series. In 1991, world first series production low beam Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps (Litronic, only low beam) were introduced on the 750iL.
The BMW 750iL Highline was the top-of-the-line model of the E32, with lots of added luxury for the rear passengers like full leather, dual radio controls, dual climate control with coolbox mounted in the center console, electrically heated and adjustable rear seats, walnut veneer folding tables, two crystal glasses neatly placed in the coolbox, legrests, and sun shade all around the rear/side windows. Complete with independent heating and ventilation, it also added a second battery in the trunk and a second alternator to provide power for all these luxuries. The ‘Highline’ option package cost more than 20,000 DEM (€10,000 equivalent).
While in Palm Springs testing the latest V12-powered 7 Series, we also had the chance to see the E32 75oiL.
