Best Car Reviews - 1987 BMW 7 Series

Introduction

The 1987 BMW 7 Series is a remarkable vehicle that first hit the roads during a time when luxury sedans were beginning to merge performance with prestige. Aimed at the discerning driver who values both comfort and a touch of sportiness, this model stood out for its combination of elegant design, smooth driving experience, and advanced features for its time. The 7 Series has always been BMW’s flagship sedan, and the 1987 edition is no exception, providing an ideal balance between style and performance along with significant rear-wheel-drive dynamics.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1987 BMW 7 Series is designed to blend classic elegance with a touch of modernity. Its sculpted silhouette and large front grille make it instantly recognizable, characteristic of BMW’s iconic design cues.

Sleek, aerodynamic body with a long hood and short rear deck, providing a balanced and stately stance.
Distinctive BMW kidney grille and dual round headlights, asserting a proud Bavarian heritage.
Chromed trim detailing and a polished finish, which add a touch of luxury.
Large, rectangular taillights framed in chrome, enhancing visibility and styling.
Standard alloy wheels and stylish side mirrors, completing the sophisticated exterior look.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 1987 BMW 7 Series, and you’ll be greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and comfort. The interior is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail.

Sumptuous leather seats offering excellent support for long journeys.
Solid wood trim on the dashboard and doors, adding to the luxurious feel.
Spacious legroom in both the front and rear seating areas, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
Dual-zone climate control, allowing personalized temperature settings.
Ample storage compartments, making it convenient for stowing personal items during travel.

Performance and Handling

At the heart of the 1987 BMW 7 Series is the GUZZLER FFS MPFI engine, a six-cylinder powerhouse that provides a smooth yet powerful driving experience. The car accelerates effortlessly, clocking a respectable acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in about 8.9 seconds.

Rear-wheel drive enhances the driving dynamics, ensuring a responsive and thrilling ride.
The 4-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear shifts both in city traffic and on the highways.
Agile handling allows the 7 Series to take corners with ease, while the suspension system absorbs road imperfections comfortably.
The car delivers a fuel consumption of around 19.834 l/100 km, keeping in line with expectations of a vehicle from this era.

Technology and Connectivity

While the technology of the 1987 BMW 7 Series may seem basic by today’s standards, it was considered quite advanced at the time, offering a suite of features designed to enhance the driving experience.

AM/FM radio and cassette player, bringing entertainment to your journey.
Power-adjustable seats to help you find the perfect driving position.
Central locking and electric windows for enhanced convenience.
Cruise control to maintain speed on long stretches of highway driving.
Analog dashboard providing all essential information at a glance.

Safety Features

Safety is always a priority, and the 1987 BMW 7 Series incorporated several standard and advanced features for the time to secure driver and passenger safety.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for optimal braking performance.
Side impact protection for added security during collisions.
Front and rear seatbelts, a standard yet crucial safety feature.
Structural integrity with reinforced body panels.
Limited crash test data from the era, but BMW's reputation for safety is well-established.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 1987 BMW 7 Series was positioned to be competitive among its luxury sedan contemporaries. This vehicle was available in multiple trims, offering a variety of features to choose from.

Base Model starting at approximately $40,000 USD in 1987.
Offers variants with additional luxury features, depending on individual needs.
Comparable to luxury competitors like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi's sedans of the time.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Luxurious interior with high-quality materials.
Powerful engine and responsive handling.
Timeless design that has aged gracefully.
Very comfortable ride for long journeys.
Respectable technological features for its time.

Cons

Relatively high fuel consumption compared to modern standards.
Maintenance can be costly due to the age of vehicle.
Limited tech and safety features by today's standards.
Higher base price makes it accessible only for premium buyers.
Lack of advanced driver-assistance systems.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The 1987 BMW 7 Series boasts a solid build, but given its age, it requires careful maintenance to keep running smoothly. The yearly maintenance costs can be on the higher side for vintage vehicles.

Common issues include engine overheating due to older cooling systems.
Electrical system malfunctions, often due to aging wiring.
Suspension issues, needing frequent checks and replacements.
Wear on the braking system over time.
Exhaust system rust, common in older cars.

Rating

Overall Rating: 7.5/10
Design: 8.5/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 7.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The 1987 BMW 7 Series is a classic beauty. The drive is smooth, and the luxury feel is very present even after many years."
"I love the vintage look and feel of this car but do be prepared for some hefty maintenance bills."
"It's such a head-turner on the street. People really appreciate the timeless design."
"The fuel consumption is quite high, but if you are a fan of classics, it's part of the charm."
"I’ve had mine for years, and despite its age, it’s been reliable with the right care."

Best Cars in This Category

1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
1987 Audi 100
1987 Jaguar XJ
1987 Lexus LS 400
1987 Cadillac Seville

Summary

The 1987 BMW 7 Series is best suited for enthusiasts of classic luxury sedans who appreciate timeless design and a comfortable ride. Despite some drawbacks in modern functionality and efficiency, it remains a symbol of luxury and performance. Its enduring appeal lies in its elegant styling and enjoyable driving dynamics, maintaining its status as a worthy classic in the BMW lineup.