2004 BMW 745Li Road Test

Apart from the "misaligned" trunk and unorthodox taillight treatment, I have come to admire the rounded surfaces and bulging lines of

This is a large sedan, designed to transport five occupants in lavish comfort without sacrificing the high performance thresholds that distinguish it as a BMW. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

the 745Li. This is a large sedan, designed to transport five occupants in lavish comfort without sacrificing the high performance thresholds that distinguish it as a BMW. The "L" designation in the nameplate indicates length, and there's plenty of it. Without the "L," the 745i displaces 5,029 mm (198 in) of roadway lengthwise. Add the "L" and an additional 140 mm (5.5 in) of roadway disappears, for a grand total of 5,169 mm (203.5 in) of length. With the extended length, which elongates the cabin, comes substantially more rear seat real estate. Those at ease in the rear avail themselves to a minimum of 1,102 mm (43.4 in) of legroom and plenty of headroom. In

The "L" designation in the 745Li's nameplate indicates length, and there's plenty of it. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

fact so much legroom exists that BMW has included moveable wedges for those in the rear to rest their feet on.

So how does all that space compare against some of the competing super-sized sedans? Well, the Audi A8L checks-in 127 mm (5.0 in) longer than the 745Li, but grants 250 mm (1.0 in) less legroom. The top tier Mercedes S-Class pulls the tape to within 130 mm (5.1 in) of the BMW's length, and resultantly offers 76 mm (3.0 in) less legroom. Lest I be accused of not mentioning a domestic biggie, the Ford Crown Victoria wins for overall length, exceeding the BMW by no less than 216 mm (8.5 in), but the Crown Vic's exceptional length fails to augment its rear seat legroom, which is close to 100 mm (4.0 in) less than the 745Li's; however, with a trunk large enough to park a Buick, its obvious Ford focused on cargo rather than just human accommodations.