740i or 540i. Much difference?

Been looking about for one or the other, I can't decide which to go for. Looking for about 1996-98 sort of age. I am just wondering how different they actually are, I've read that they're both the same weight and same power, so surely they should be the same as far as speed goes? Is the 5 more sporty feeling than the 7?
What about manual vs automatic, does that make much difference?
I am trying to arrange test drives but just wondered what peoples thoughts are.
Cheers

Much difference? Yes and no.

First, I'll answer the 'yes'. Since both badges carried the x40i, both cars had a 4.0L V8 engine. Drivetrain had a lot of similarities. Actually, I venture to say the drivetrains were identical, but don't quote me on that one, because the diff's might have been different. ECU's were the same and a lot of the engine components and wiring harnesses for the engine were the same, including fuel pumps, injectors, distributor caps, spark plugs...anything that was connected to the engine was pretty much the same.

Now, I'll answer the 'no'. To compare a 5- and 7-series is like comparing the night to day. There is no comparison because they are different vehicles. The 740i had a lot...and I mean a LOT more gadgets to play with. I believe the 740i's had a smidgen more room in the rear than the 540i's did...unless you're talking about the 740iL, in which case it was 4 inches longer than the shorter 740i.

The 540i is smaller in comparison to it's big brother, the 740i. Interior options were different, for instance, I believe the 7 only came with leather trim everything, where as the 5 had optional leather seats, steering wheel, etc. The 740i had power and heated everything, INCLUDING the rear seats...yes, even the rear seats were power adjustable and heated! No option existed for the rear seats on the 5 as far as I'm aware. The 7 came with optional TV and sat-nav (gps navigation) in later models, had the optional telephone, and even some models had a full out executive package which included fax machines, very mini fridges, and a few other options I can't remember right now. The 5 didn't come with this stuff...at least VERY few had these if they were offered.

The 5 is lighter, more agile, and I suppose you could say more "sporty" as a result. I'm not aware of any 7 coming in manual transmissions in the 740i's, but if there were any, they are VERY few and far between. The 540i's may have had more produced in manuals, but I don't know a whole lot about the 5's.

In all, you can't really explain the differences. You have to drive the two to see for yourself. Personally, I'd get the 740i just because it's a 7-series...but you have to discover for yourself the difference because they are both very wonderful vehicles to drive and own.

Check out pictures of my 1990 750iL in my sig below, if you fancy a gander...

Hope this helps some what. Have a good weekend.

Thanks for your reply! I've been trying to look at specifications on the net but every website you go to has different information. I presumed the 5 was lighter than the 7 but some people say it isnt and some say it is so I'm not really too sure now. I do like gadgets and I do love the massive boxy look of the 740 and always have. If the 5 is considerably better performance wise that would also have its benefits..

I'm going to have to do more research and drive the 2 this weekend. Thanks for your help!

Thanks for your reply! I've been trying to look at specifications on the net but every website you go to has different information. I presumed the 5 was lighter than the 7 but some people say it isnt and some say it is so I'm not really too sure now. I do like gadgets and I do love the massive boxy look of the 740 and always have. If the 5 is considerably better performance wise that would also have its benefits..

I'm going to have to do more research and drive the 2 this weekend. Thanks for your help!
Bone stock, there won't be much difference performance wise, aside from the fact that the 5 is a smaller, most likey a bit ligher car. Bumpers, side skirts, rear window spoilers, and other things like that won't fit the 7 simply because the 5's stuff is just that much smaller.


If you like gadgets, the 7 is definately the way to go. Look into the 750iL's...V12! :D And it packs more smiles! I can post up a "what to look for" reply for the 7-series so you know what you're getting yourself into, because some of these cars have been neglected and end up being nothing but a money pit. But if you get the right one, they need little in the way of money...just fuel! :D Was it an E38 7er you were looking at? E32? (Or if it's easier, what year did you have your eye on?)