The BMW concern introduced and showcased its inaugural flagship model, the BMW 7 E23, in 1977, and for 11 years, they rolled off the assembly line successfully, garnering an increasing number of admirers. This was the first generation of the luxurious seventh series.
Exterior of BMW 7 E23
The BMW 7 E23 replaced the body «3s.» At that time, car enthusiasts purchased these vehicles with chrome-edged windows, the same framing for the grille, and rear-view mirrors. The wheel arches were also widened. These were unusual changes for the era.
Specifications
Length — 4 m 859.
Width — 1 m 798.
Height — 1 m 430.
Wheelbase — 2 m 799.
Trunk capacity of 481 liters.
Interior of BMW 7 E23
In the salons of the BMW 7 E23, predecessors of the more modern BMW E32, the upholstery was of high quality. The seats were leather-clad. Central consoles and doors were adorned with wood.
The salons were large and spacious. There was plenty of space both in the back and in the front. Drivers controlled four-spoke steering wheels. Behind them were large dashboards, with equally large analog sensors.
Central consoles with numerous buttons. They were installed for operating stereos and heaters. There were also cigarette lighters and ashtrays.
Tunnels with wooden decor featured selectors for gearboxes, parking brakes, and a multitude of buttons to control the car.
Engines
The BMW 7 E23 vehicles were equipped with M30 engines, which consisted of 11 units. They were six-cylinder engines. Each cylinder had two valves. Starting from 2.8 liters, 170 hp with 233 Nm. Acceleration in 10.1 seconds. Top speed of 192 km/h. Ending with engines of 3.5 liters, 218 hp. Acceleration in 8 seconds. Top speed — 212 km/h. Torque — 310 Nm.
The most popular in this lineup are the 3.4 liters, 218 hp, and 310 Nm engines. Acceleration of 8 sec/100 km. Top speed of 217 km/h. High fuel consumption — 17 liters in the city, 8 liters outside.
Important! All engines had Bosch electronic fuel injection. The engines were mainly naturally aspirated. Turbocharged engines started production after 1979. They were paired with four-speed automatics and four-speed manual gearboxes.
The BMW 7 E23 models had independent suspension components with coil springs. The cars had disc brakes, ABS. They were ventilated at the front. The vehicles provided a smooth, comfortable ride.
Conclusion
The BMW 7 E23 are excellent vehicles. They offer:
- Good technical characteristics;
- Spacious interiors and trunks;
- Attractive design.
It's rare to come across them nowadays. If you do find such cars, they are unlikely to be in average condition. They are priced around $2,000.
