Ironically its first cars were English Austin 7s built under license, the same company that 68 years later BMW bought in 1995. It lost torrents of money in five years and resold for a pound (about $1.60) to Austin/Rover management earlier this year. The little Austin was known as the Dixi in Germany and because it was small and cheap it sold well during the early depression years. BMW quickly developed the tiny Dixi into larger and sportier cars.

Now, some 73 years later, at the turn of this new century, BMW dominates the world sport sedan market. Its 3 series, 5 series, M series and Z cars all handle and drive like race cars, real drivers’ cars. But what about the flagship vehicle, the 4,300-pound behemoth, the 7 series?

Well, testing soon demonstrated that the big 740iL, like all BMWs, is a driver’s car with all the comfort and safety of the best of the American, Japanese and German competition (except for cupholders).

On a trip to Borrego Springs the test car was thrown around twisty roads with abandon without causing any increase in heartbeat or unsolicited back seat driving advice.

While swooping down one of the few straight pieces of highway on the return trip, a very large bird, perhaps a wild turkey, looked down the road, misjudged the approaching BMW’s speed and took to the air from the right shoulder. It seemed that the bird would hit the center of the windshield full force, so the car was instantly flicked into the oncoming left lane to allow the bird to gain some altitude. It did, merely brushed the left roof top and flew on, although perhaps not entirely on its original flight path. Just then five motorcycles appeared in the oncoming lane. A quick flick back and the car was again in the proper lane, unperturbed. Impressive. Try that in an SUV. Better yet, don’t.

The 32-valve, 4.4 liter, 282 hp V-8 engine is hushed and powerful, with a gorgeous racy sound on hard acceleration, and whisper quiet around town. One can talk in lowered tones and be heard at any speed — if it had a ticking clock, it would be audible while driving.

The ride is well isolated, firm and pliable. Although the handling is exceptional at moderate speeds, when taken closer to the limit, the car starts to buck and twitch, a phenomenon that led to letting go of the accelerator, and making a mental note not to do that again.

The seats are large and comfortable and the rear leg room rivals a stretch limousine. The cupholders are, as in most German cars, a joke. OK for small coffee cups, but forget about a McDonald’s drive through and a large soda.

The automatic temperature control system works well with separate controls for driver, passenger and rear seat passengers. The doors are massive and opening the driver’s side can be a chore, requiring substantial arm muscles. Don’t buy this car for grandma. It has a huge trunk, with a sketch layout picture on the underside of the trunk lid instructing you how to pack four full-size golf bags in there.

You won’t get lost easily. The voice and map navigation system works if you have the time and patience to program in your destination address. You probably won’t use it much around town, but it becomes very useful if you are going someplace new. Just plug it in and listen to Miss BMW’s instructions.

You’ll have to part with $66,400 to become an owner of one of these. If you’ve ticked off someone recently you might want to spend the extra $33,000 (yes, that’s three zeros) for a protection model with unbreakable glass, steel sun roof, thicker skinned doors and more. This one weighs 4,630 pounds.

The base 740iL as sold is replete with most everything you might want. However, if you desire a silkier ride you can buy the adaptive ride package with self leveling rear suspension and electronic damping control for $1,900.

Those planning to spend a lot of time in Montana or thereabouts should consider the cold weather package with heated front and rear seats and steering wheel for $1,100. Special metallic colors are available for $3,000. A rear window power sunshade costs $740, parking distance control $900, rear side impact airbag $550, active comfort seats $500, and cool looking 18-inch spoke alloy wheels with performance tires are $1,450.

The EPA estimated fuel consumption is 15 city/23 highway on premium fuel. One week’s combined city/highway driving returned 17.8 mpg.

The warranty is four years or 50,000 miles with three years or 36,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance and four years or 50,000 miles of roadside assistance.

Overall, this is a seductive car, it grows on you and could quickly become a trusted member of the family. Pity it had to go back.

If you are in this price range, and like to drive, take a look at one at Harloff BMW in Encinitas, Cunningham BMW in El Cajon or BMW of San Diego in Kearny Mesa.