probably the E38 generation BMW 7-series have been the best of the 7-series. My dad had a 98 740i, and had absolutely no problem with it. The only thing was around the end of its thrid year, the AC heating core burned out so he had heat in the AC. Other wise, it is a very good car. I recommend the last two years of the 7-series, 2000 and 2001. It's when BMW made the best of the best in the 7-series. They fixed all flaws, and crap, before they moved onto the E65 generation 7-series. I highly reccommend this car, and it is easy to maintain, for its quality, reliability, and its great warranty.