JR 
1998 BMW 7 Series Sedan 740iL 4dr Sedan
You have truly arrived
 Once you've owned a 7, You really have truly arrived.  Realistically you're driving a very sophisticated luxury sedan that is supposed to be maintained to spec. BMW did not market this car to those who could not afford the maintenance costs. I find that the most reliable examples of any BMW I've looked at or talked to people about seem to be the ones that have been maintained correctly, this doesn't mean just oil changes, I'm talking following the full maintenance schedule.  With the proper care and love these cars will treat you well. It demands respect when you pull up to a gathering and defiantly has a lot of presence.  Do not let the E38's minor issues deter you from owning one. 