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2003 BMW 7 Series Luxury Sport Sedan
…Continued
BMW moves decisively into the luxury market with a car of the future
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We will see 42-volt electrical systems on BMW 7s in the very near future for more efficiency, weight savings and to lead us into advanced hybrid fuel cell assist systems. If we isolate just one rear door for a count, we'll see that we have a built in audio speaker(s) - an electrical motor -, a motor to close the door (if not shut all the way), the power window motor, power lock solenoid, and a set of power screen motors. Combine that with the motors found in seats, doors, the trunk, the dash and you'll realize that the alternator on this car is a mini power station. There is no outside key entry and the trunk opens and closes with electric motors. Keep the remote control battery in good shape!
The optional Logic 7 audio system is a real treat. Given the quiet nature of this car, listening to classical music is a joy. The highlight of the Logic 7 system is its ability to accurately portray the soundstage. Instruments and voices are isolated in space, as opposed to being jumbled together with other sounds. Thanks to the utilization of a digital signal processor the surround sound systems from the Harman International group (Harman/Kardon) creates a 360 degree sound field which can reveal the very soul of the music being played.
The aluminum chassis is an evolution of the 5-Series with electronically adjusted air suspension and computer controlled hydraulic cylinders for reduction of pitch and roll. Variable assist, variable ration steering is seamless, and the 7 is responsive without being harsh. All done without air suspension or computer controlled active suspension - a feat competitors deems impossible. For maximum performance, 18 and 19 inch wheels are available and 20 inch wheels will be an option.
And the engine is the usual paragon we've grown to expect, now 325 hp, equal to the previous V12 engine. Valvetronic eliminates the vagrancies of previous throttle controllers by varying the intake valve lift to match the go pedal demands, and variable valve timing on all four cams combines with a fully variable intake manifold for unparalleled power and efficiency coexistence.
While the new 7-Series will only be available with an automatic transmission, a six-speed ZF with Steptronic selectable shifting is exceptional, smooth and always seems to know where the driver wants it to be. In Europe most will get the six-cylinder 730i and two diesel variants. The US will get the larger of two V8 models and soon an enlarged 12-cylinder 750i that climbs from 5.4- to 6.0-litres and rises to 400 hp, equipped with new heads with four fully variable valves and direct ignition.
Soon there will be a long-wheelbase version, and by 2004 you will be able to buy a Rolls-Royce derived from the same components set. There was to be an absolute luxury class as 9-Series that changed with the new management team and the acquisition of the British nameplate. An M model will come to these shores for the first time.
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