740i info needed

[scotty b]

I have a chance to pick up a 1997 740i that has been hit in the front end. My question to the Dorkis is is the real world sale value of this car worth fixing and selling, or should I part it out. It appears to be a Sport package, or possibly an M car as it has the factory sport (18" IIRC M) wheels and the black trunk emblem, but I also know those are easily swapped out. Not being a hardcore BMW guy I don't know what else to look for as M significance. I know the coupes had sport seats etc, but I know less about the sedans. From what I see on the interwebs it looks to be a true sport version

Overall the interior and undamaged part of the car is in very good shape. Black with tan interior.

Repair wise it would need most of the front end. Grill, radiator support, drivers fender, bumper cover, bumper reinforcement, lights and possibly more small items. Radiator seems fine as does the condensor etc

This car is part of a package I am trying to work with a nice condition 328i for either my Volvo replacement or for my mom, so if the 740 just isn't worth much in parts I'll probably pass on the whole lot. FWIW the whole car would be

TIA:)

[cmartin]

Can you fix it for less then this one?

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/5448514313.html

[scotty b]

for what I am able to buy it for.... hell yes. It is in about the same condition except for the front end damage.

This is exactly why I asked you guys about real world sales. KBB gives it 1700.00 in VG condition :roll:

[cmartin]

I helped a guy flip one a few years ago, I think it sold for ~3500 and wasnt as clean. I dont think there is much room in these cars anymore but if you buy it right they still sell in the 3-4k range if nice.

[Trak Ratt]

Don't most of the M cars have a BIG M on the valve covers???

[Geoff Daniels]

I do not believe BMW ever built an M7. If they did it would not be a 740.

[racer]

No M's .. Could be a "sport" though as mentioned. iirc, in the US they were short wheelbase only (740i). blacked out trim. the double parallel wheels. Not sure if there is a VIN identifier or perhaps on an option code sticker somewhere.

[scotty b]

IIRC the trim is all black

I'm going to be back where the car is next weekend and can take some pics, but at this point I'm thinking I my go for it as the package deal with the 3 series. After reading up a bit today at lunch, I am even more convinced it is indeed the sport version. I see it's not as much of a gas hog as the 300se I am slowly putting together to replace the Vulva so maybe ..................:cool:

[Jazzbass]

E90 328i or E46 328i?

[scotty b]

Sorry mistype. It's an E36, I meant to type 325 not 328, I've been dealing with 2 other BMW's (46's) with collision damage lately and my mind is all jumbleded up.



Then there are the paint fumes...........:|

[onboost]

Scott.. sound like 740 sport.. there were no M7's produced other than E23 version and that was S. African production only.
Values all over the board, mostly low at this point.
If you need parts and don't want to spend for new.. ring me, I have access and glad to help-out.