The E65 and long-wheelbase E66 are the fifth generation of BMW's top-of-the-line sedan, introduced fall 2001, with first U.S. models arriving spring 2002. This is the BMW model famous for two of BMW's most forward-looking and controversial features: the iDrive cockpit controller and the vastly different styling with the high trunk design (Bangle Butt). BMW softened some of the lines with a mid-life freshening in 2005. The 750i and 750Li have 4.8-liter, 360-hp V8 engines; the 760Li has a 6.0-liter 438-hp V12. The E66 is five inches longer and represents the majority of U.S. sales that totaled about 14,500 in 2007. The high water mark for the BMW 7 Series sales was 2002, when 22,006 were sold. The succeeding 7 Series, which will apparently not have an E-code, is due in 2008 or 2009. The history of the 7 Series dates back 30 years: E65/E66.......... 2001- E38 ............. 1995-2001 E32 ............. 1987-1994 E23 ............. 1977-1986 Base prices for 2008 models are: 750i Sedan ........ $76,575 750Li Sedan ....... $79,675 760Li Sedan ...... $123,375 Alpina B7 ........ $115,775 Options (based on 750Li): Sport package ...... $3,000 Adaptive ride ...... $1,900 19-inch wheels ..... $1,300 Rear side airbags......$300 Night vision ........$2,200 Convenience pkg .....$1,000 Cold weather pkg ..... $700 Luxury seating ......$2,200 Comfort access ......$1,000 Rear comfort seats ..$3,500 Premium sound .......$1,800 Rear DVD ........... $2,200 HD Radio ............. $350 Sirius satellite radio $595 Prices include $775 freight.
