BMW E38 — A Youngtimer for Every Day!

OP OP! BMW E38: A Car You Don’t Choose with Logic

The story of this BMW isn’t about logic or cold calculation. It starts with intuition, a gut feeling — that exact moment when you realize: this is the one.

Andrii, the owner of this 7-series, admits: at first, he didn’t even think about making a video about his car. How can you talk about something so personal? But over time, he realized that his experience, emotions, and love for the car were worth sharing. His friend Ihor, a mechanic well-acquainted with E38s, joined the filming too.

How It All Started

At the time of purchase, Andrii was looking for something completely different — eyeing a Mercedes. But by chance, he saw an E38, sat behind the wheel, made a circle — and that was it. Within minutes, he knew: he wanted this car. Not just the model, but this very example.

"It was just standing there. I drove it, and I knew — I want it," recalls Andrii.

The car was in poor condition: a rusty body, missing sills, suspension problems… But that was part of its charm. It felt like the car had a soul, a story — one worth continuing.

Condition at Purchase: A Challenge for an Enthusiast

The bodywork is the first thing anyone considering an E38 pays attention to. All technical issues can be fixed — replaced, repaired, adjusted. But the body is the most valuable. And in this case, it was, to put it mildly, not in great shape.

Arches, sills, fenders, hood, trunk lid — everything was rusted. The car couldn’t even be lifted on a hoist. But that didn’t scare Andrii — quite the opposite, it fueled his enthusiasm. The meticulous restoration work began.

What’s Under the Hood

This example is equipped with an M52B28 — a straight-six paired with an LPG system. Though various engines were originally available: from 2.8 diesels to the iconic V12.

Of course, the car has some "makeshift" elements — a reservoir from a Chinese Chery, brightly colored hoses. But these are conscious, practical choices aimed at making the car suitable for daily driving while preserving it.

Features and Details

The BMW E38 once showcased BMW’s peak technology. And even in this not-so-rich configuration, it hides plenty of curiosities:

• electric seats with memory,

• double-glazed windows,

• an instrument panel from an M5 E39,

• a factory first aid kit with original contents,

• a ski hatch,

• CD changer,

• phone in the center console,

• and even wooden grab handles.

Some parts, like a cup holder, are nearly impossible to find — a used one is unavailable, and a new one can cost up to 500 euros.

Repairs and Servicing

The list of work done since purchase is impressive. Brake discs, pads, shock absorbers, control arms, valve cover, hoses, all fluids, seals, caliper rebuild, seal replacements, stabilizers, bushings — and dozens more.

Expenses over two years: around $3,000–4,000. Not counting the work Andrii did himself at his service.

Daily Use

Surprisingly, the car proved practical even for everyday use. Installed Bluetooth allows modern device connectivity, the cabin remains ergonomic, and the seats are comfortable and highly adjustable.

"It’s incredibly quiet and smooth. You drive — and feel like you’re gliding," Andrii shares. Acceleration isn’t felt physically but seen on the speedometer: whether it’s a V8, straight-six, or V12 — everything feels calm and noble.

Future Plans

Andrii wants to restore the E38 to factory condition: remove the angel eyes, restore the headlights, install factory options, and replace the metal sunroof with a glass one.

It’s not just a car — it’s a project, hobby, passion. Every little detail that brings it back to its original state is a step toward reviving a legend.

Conclusion

The BMW E38 isn’t for everyone. It’s a car you have to love. You don’t just use it — you live through it. It’s more than transport — it’s a style, emotion, and spirit of an era.

For some, it’s just an old wreck, for others — a living classic. And that’s the point. Andrii admits he can’t imagine life without it. It’s become part of him — with all its issues, repairs, and endless to-do lists.

But most importantly — it’s still on the road. And it still gives him that same feeling: this is it.

Watch the full story on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQnbyNJIS6A

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