Best Car Reviews - 1991 BMW 735i

Introduction

The 1991 BMW 735i is a landmark vehicle in BMW's lineup, representing prestige and performance in the early '90s. Designed for those who prioritize luxury but still have an appreciation for the classic driving experience, this midsize car targets both business elites and automotive enthusiasts alike. What makes this model stand out is its combination of elegant design, robust performance, and innovative technology for its time.

Design and Exterior Features

The design of the 1991 BMW 735i is timeless, drawing on BMW's tradition of creating visually appealing cars with an unmistakable character.

Streamlined shape: The 735i features a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that exudes sophistication.
Distinctive kidney grille: A hallmark of BMW's design language that enhances the car's prestigious appearance.
Crisp body lines and chrome accents add to the vehicle's aura of luxury and class.
The dual headlamps and classic tail lights present a visually balanced front and rear.
Large windows offer excellent visibility and contribute to the car's airy feel.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 1991 BMW 735i reveals a cabin meticulously crafted for comfort and style.

High-quality materials such as leather upholstery and wood trim adorn the interior, creating a plush, inviting ambiance.
Ergonomically designed seats provide superior comfort, adjustable features, and lumbar support.
Generous legroom and headroom ensure passengers enjoy a spacious experience.
Climate control system allows for personalized settings, enhancing every journey.
The dashboard layout emphasizes practicality with easy-to-use controls.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the BMW 735i packs a potent GUZZLER FFS MPFI engine with six cylinders driving the rear wheels, paired with an automatic 4-speed transmission.

Engine displacement and finer specs highlight its capacity for spirited driving.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is impressive, achieving it in 8.9 seconds.
The car handles beautifully on city streets and highways, offering a smooth and responsive drive.
Turning feels precise due to its well-tuned chassis, making maneuvering a breeze.
With a fuel consumption of 18.59L/100 km, efficiency might not be its forte, favoring power instead.
Suspension system provides a balanced combination of comfort and sportiness.

Technology and Connectivity

For its era, the BMW 735i comes fitted with some notable technological advancements, although not as advanced as modern vehicles.

A well-integrated infotainment system, albeit basic, was ahead of its time.
Connectivity options were limited but provided standard audio systems for the period.
Standard features include AM/FM radio, modern for 1991.
Driver assistance technologies weren’t in abundance, adhering to norms of that time.

Safety Features

Even in 1991, BMW prioritized safety, equipping the 735i with:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced control under braking.
Airbags: Installed for front passengers providing crucial protection.
Traditional seatbelt reminders for added safety conscience.
Body structure designed to absorb impact energy, ensuring passenger protection.
Crumple zones and reinforced side panels.

Pricing and Variants

Back in its prime, the BMW 735i sported a base price around $51,000 USD, situating it in the luxury bracket alongside similar brands like Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

Its pricing offered value considering the prestige and performance.
Competitors included the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi 100, both aligning closely in price and features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Luxurious interior with high attention to detail and premium materials.
Timeless exterior design that remains classic over the decades.
Strong engine performance ensuring a powerful driving experience.
Comfortable seating for long journeys.
Well-balanced handling for a dynamic drive.

Cons

High fuel consumption, not ideal for fuel-economic driving.
Limited modern tech features compared to contemporary vehicles.
Maintenance can be costly compared to other midsize cars.
Lack of advanced safety technologies that are standard today.
Connectivity options are outdated by current standards.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a 1991 BMW 735i entails understanding its maintenance demands which are average for luxury vehicles.

Yearly maintenance costs are in the moderate range expected for high-end sedans.
Common issues include:
- Electrical issues such as faulty sensors.
- Cooling system malfunctions due to aging parts.
- Suspension wear, impacting ride quality.
- Transmission leaks.
- Corrosion on certain body panels over time.

Rating

Based on various aspects, the 1991 BMW 735i earns its place as a prestigious choice:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 7/10

Overall Rating: 7.6/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Feedback from current owners reveal a balanced perspective:

The build quality stands the test of time.
Driving dynamics are often described as "smooth and responsive."
Most appreciate the luxurious feel of the interior.
Customers highlight fuel economy as a potential downside.
Some note ongoing upkeep costs as a factor to consider.

Best Cars in This Category

1991 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
1991 Audi 100
1991 Lexus LS 400
1991 Jaguar XJ6
1991 Acura Legend

Summary

The 1991 BMW 735i is a car best suited for individuals who appreciate classic luxury and performance. With its timeless design, robust engine, and comfortable interior, it still holds an appeal for enthusiasts and collectors alike. While it may not boast the latest technologies, its charm lies in its pure driving experience and elegant craftsmanship. Providing significant value and long-lasting appeal, the 735i is a lasting testament to BMW's dedication to luxury and performance.