[speeddeacon]

Thanks. If he were in the US you might get a few more opinions but my understanding is that differences in standard and optional equipment and even option package content varies by country, not to mention between the models, e.g. 730 vs 740 vs 750, etc. Here there is no L version because there is no non-L version, they are all long wheelbase G11/12 so far. Maybe one of the members well versed in the european specs will chime in to help.

That being said the question itself is so very subjective that it is hard to say what are must have options. The car is so well equipped to begin with. However I would venture that, in the beautifully mountainous geography of Austria, the Cold Weather Package would be a no brainer at least, and in my opinion should be standard on a car the caliber of a 7 series (I mean its a $400 package, come on BMW). Beyond that, it would be purely personal.

For comfort, Executive Package with it's ventilated and massaging seats seem like a no miss option. Heads up display is included too in the lower lines, which I think is invaluable. If he likes tech and additional safety features, then the Drivers Assistance Plus fits the bill. To me these are the three must have option packages in that they all add function that I find desirable in an elite luxury sedan. However, they aren't necessarily keeping the price down either.

You mentioned M Sport and 20's, which don't seem at all to be mandatory since they are essentially just cosmetic differences (although the higher speed limiter with the 20's might come in handy should he venture onto the Autobahn, if the higher speed limiter is available in euro spec). While I do prefer the looks of the M Sport package, it isn't even available on all colors here in the US and certainly would not take budgetary priority over the functional packages listed above, so I guess I'm not one to take form over function in this class of car. Since price is an issue I'm assuming he isn't being chauffeured so Rear Executive Lounge seating is not necessary and probably wouldn't be available on a non-L version anyway.

So, if a "plain" 7 series is not well enough equipped, then I say Cold Weather Package is the only must have, followed by Executive Package then Driver Assistance Plus. The rest is fluff, albeit some very desirable fluff that has its price.