BMW’s 7 series first spawned a long wheelbase version with the E32 launched in 1986 but the extended edition of the Chris Bangle-designed E65 model was the first to get its own BMW internal designation: E66. The E65 was a sales success but the E66 remained more of a niche offering, particularly in the UK.
This, then, is a rare beast and one which has spent most of its life doing what you would imagine people bought the long wheelbase version for: to be chauffeured around.
It’s clearly led a pampered life and is in great condition as a result. So whether you have a chauffeuring business, four adults to transport in comfort, or just hanker after an outsize saloon, then this could be the car for you.20220224_143401.jpg3.92 MB
The History and Paperwork
Registered 4 Jan 2006
Previously chauffeur-driven car for company director
Maintained at BMW Battersea seemingly on a money no object basis
Last serviced 1 Feb 2022 at independent specialist, total cost almost £1,500
Included were new front discs and pads, brake fluid change, coolant change, diff oil replaced, brake pad wear sensor replaced, thrust arms replaced both sides and a new battery
Collection reduction forces sad sale
All owner’s manuals present
Full set of stamps in the service book and many supporting invoices
MOT runs to 1 Feb 2023
V5 present in owner’s name
Currently being driven by company director who reposts it drives superbly well
Looking at the condition of the driver’s seat in this car leads one to wonder about the perils of wearing jeans when driving. If we assume that the chauffeur that drove this car for most of its life wore a uniform rather than loafing around in their Levis then that may go some way to explain the limited wear that it has experienced, even when taking into account the limited mileage.
If that speculation is correct then the rear seat passengers must surely have also been smartly dressed for the cabin is clean and tidy throughout with almost no signs of wear. The rear seat legroom is, as you would expect, very generous, so much so that footrests are provided. Being of the SE trim level, standard equipment includes all the mod cons and it’s all reported to be in full working order, including the telephone in the centre arm rest.
Back in the boot, it’s similarly very smart and houses a full sized spare wheel under the floor. The toolkit and warning triangle are both present. Overall, it’s remarkably well preserved for its age.bmw 19.jpg3.63 MB
The Exterior
Black with sun protection glass
Bodywork very straight
Good wheels with premium tyres
Finished in black with tinted windows at the rear and measuring up at over five metres long, this is an imposing vehicle. Having seemingly avoided supermarket car parks, there are no dents and the paintwork reflects the nature of the car’s likely usage, being mostly within London. There are a few stone chips but they are very minor and overall it presents very well.
Similarly, the wheels are all in good order. They wear a matching set of Bridgestone tyres which all have plenty of tread remaining, including the spare. Underneath is reportedly all clean and tidy too. You could arrive at the swankiest of venues without causing a murmur.20220224_143438.jpg5.11 MB
The Mechanics
Clean engine bay
New battery
Drives very smoothly
Naturally, the long wheelbase carries something of a weight penalty but the 3 litre straight six is up to the job and, although you’re not going to win any traffic light grand prix, it’s hardly the sort of car to be competing in anyway. Once up to speed, the owner reports that it cruises effortlessly and that the ride quality is a particular highlight.
Also in the road report is that the gearbox shuffles the ratios smoothly and that it is, as you would hope, very quiet and with no unusual noises from the suspension or drivetrain to distract from the air of serenity. In all, it’s very much the limo experience.20220224_143527.jpg3.94 MB
Summary
A pampered and well kept example of the flagship BMW limo that has been very much enjoyed by its current keeper. Only being sold to reduce their vast collection.
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