The BMW 7 Series (e38) is a line of full-size luxury vehicles produced by the German automaker BMW. It replaced the "New Six" models in 1977. It is BMW's flagship car and is only available as a sedan.

The E38 generation (BMW 7 Series 1995-2001) had a five-speed automatic or manual transmission. Features of the BMW E38 7 Series included high-pressure headlight washers, auto-leveling xenon HID headlamps, power moonroof, a sound system with 14 speakers and four subwoofers as well as 6-disc CD changer, onboard satellite navigation and rain-sensing wipers. Other features included an automatic climate control system with separate controls for the driver and passenger, a three-position memory system for the drivers seat, safety-belt height, new steering wheel and outside mirrors. Front-seat side airbags and a Head Protection System (HPS) were also standard. The BMW 7 series - e38 car featured an all-leather interior with burl walnut trim. The continuous-motion Active Comfort Seat technology was introduced in 1998 to improve comfort and reduce fatigue for the driver and front passenger.

The BMW 5-series is a popular mid-size combination of prestige 7-series styling and V8 mechanicals at the top end while offering the more frugal sixes and agility of the popular 3-series at the entry level

As the last 5-series before the new BMW look, the E39 stands alone with its more traditional BMW styling. Joe Kenwright unravels what can be a confusing model range.

BMW used car e39 Checklist
* Radiator: early models can suffer thermostat and radiator faults. Watch the temperature gauge and listen for the engine fan. If it cuts in soon after start-up, walk away.

* Water pump: these fail in older cars - even those with low annual mileages. Some say it's a design fault, with 'plastic' impellors in the pump being the weakness.

* Engine: the 520i, 523i and 528i models up to September 1998 can suffer premature engine bore wear. BMW replaced many units for free, so check service records.

* Windows: electric window regulators fail. Ensure all operate, including the 'one touch' function - although if this is wayward, it can be reset by holding the button in 'close' position for 30 seconds.

* Wheels: front wheelbearings have been known to wear prematurely on models that are driven hard or those that have been fitted with excessively large alloy wheels.