Background
BMW 7 Series (F02) was the long-wheelbase version of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series introduced in 2008. With a wheelbase extended by 140 millimetres compared with the standard F01, the F02 was aimed particularly at customers seeking additional rear-seat space and a more prestigious character. The new generation combined more restrained styling, exceptional comfort and advanced electronics with BMW’s traditional driver-focused character.
Long-wheelbase 7 Series
The F02 featured a wheelbase of 3,210 millimetres, with the additional length used primarily to increase rear-seat legroom. Overall length of the original version was 5,212 mm. Available equipment included electrically adjustable rear seats, four-zone climate control, massage and ventilation functions and a separate iDrive controller for rear passengers. The F02 was therefore particularly suited to executive use while retaining the driving characteristics expected from a BMW.
A wide range of engines
The long-wheelbase F02 was offered with several different powertrains. The original range included models such as the 740Li and 750Li, with the diesel-powered 730Ld, V12-powered 760Li and ActiveHybrid 7 L joining later. xDrive all-wheel drive was also available on selected versions. The engine range extended from six-cylinder petrol and diesel units to V8 and V12 engines.
A new generation of technology
The F01/F02 generation introduced significantly more advanced electronics and driver assistance systems to the 7 Series. A new generation of iDrive featured a large 10.2-inch display, while available technologies included Integral Active Steering with rear-wheel steering, Night Vision with pedestrian detection, Active Cruise Control and Lane Change Warning. Several body components were made from aluminium to reduce weight.
New powertrains and eight-speed automatic
The F01/F02 was the first 7 Series generation to offer both a hybrid powertrain and a twin-turbocharged V12 engine. The 760i and 760Li also introduced an eight-speed automatic transmission to the range, which later became available on other versions. These developments demonstrated the rapid progress of BMW luxury-car technology at the end of the 2000s.
The 2012 model update
The 7 Series received a model update in 2012. Headlights, bumpers and several exterior details were revised, while electronics and powertrains were also improved. The eight-speed automatic transmission became more widely used, and several engines received increases in performance and efficiency.
Approximately 370,000 cars
The BMW F01/F02 generation was produced from 2008 to 2015 at BMW Plant Dingolfing in Germany. According to BMW’s official figures, approximately 370,000 cars of this generation were manufactured and delivered to customers in more than 100 countries. The F02 represented the most executive-oriented long-wheelbase version of the model family.
Model in the collection
The BMW 7 Series (F02) in my collection was produced by Minichamps and represents a 2008 car. It is a limited-edition model, with a total production run of 1,200 examples.
Technical data in brief
Model debut: 2008
Production period: 2008–2015
Production location: BMW Plant Dingolfing, Germany
Body style: four-door long-wheelbase luxury saloon
Wheelbase: 3,210 mm
Length: 5,212 mm for the original version
Additional wheelbase length compared with F01: 140 mm
Engines: six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, V8, V12 and hybrid powertrain
Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive, with xDrive available on selected versions
Transmissions: 6-speed and later 8-speed automatic
F01/F02-generation production: approximately 370,000 cars
Special feature: long-wheelbase 7 Series combining exceptional rear-seat space with a new generation of BMW technology