The E23 is the very first generation of the BMW 7 Series. Before it, BMW’s flagship models were the E3 (“New Six”), but in 1977 the E23 launched the 7 Series lineup that continues to this day. The 735i version was equipped with the legendary 3.5-liter inline-six M30 engine — one of BMW’s most durable powerplants. Power output: around 218 hp in later versions. With proper maintenance, this engine is known to reach 400,000–500,000 km of service life.
One of the most technologically advanced BMWs of its time: the E23 introduced many features that later became industry standards — on-board computer, electronic climate control, ABS (one of the first in its class), and power-adjustable seats. Despite being a luxury executive sedan, the E23 was famous for its driving dynamics. BMW engineers deliberately tuned it to feel more sporty than competitors like the Mercedes-Benz W126.
The 735i accelerated from 0–100 km/h in about 8 seconds, which was extremely quick for a large luxury sedan of the early 1980s. Top speed was around 220 km/h — true sports-car territory for a car designed in the late 1970s.
This is your chance to touch the origins of legendary classic BMW engineering.