(First posted 8/6/2013; Rescheduled as a tribute to Karl Lagerfeld, who passed on earlier this week at age 85) — Pillowy, button-tufted seats and abundance of wood trim often conjure thoughts of full-size American cars of the Brougham era. In particular, Cadillac, Oldsmobile, and Chrysler were big fans of the button-tufted look on their top models during the 1980s. But don’t be confused, this is no “Fine Corinthian Leather”. These seats are those of–a BMW?

Yes, indeed. This is a 2000 BMW 750iL.

Obviously this is not your average BMW 7-series.

In addition to being an L7 limousine model, it’s a one-of-a-kind Individual model styled by German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld.

Now the L7 alone was a unique model. With a wheelbase stretched to 131 inches, 10 inches longer than a standard 750iL and 16 inches longer than a standard-wheelbase E38, only 899 E38 7-Series L7 “limousines” were made from 1997-2001. All L7s were powered by the 750iL’s 5.4-liter V12 making 322 horsepower and 361 lb-ft of torque.

In 2000, one of those 899 L7s served as the canvas for famed fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld to put his mark on. Lagerfeld had previously special-ordered two other BMWs, including a 1992 E32 7-Series that was the very first of BMW’s “Individual” models offering extensive customization to the most selective of consumers.

The exterior color was achieved by painting Chestnut Brown Metallic over Gold Orange Metallic for a glowing effect.

The interior featured a special order chocolate-colored leather (button-tufted no less!) with orange piping and acres of real wood trim.

Among its other unique features are executive tray tables, a state-of-the-art (for 2000) rear entertainment system, in-door tissue dispensers and a James Bond-style safe, all separated by a limousine-style partition. It’s quite a unique car. This is how BMW does Brougham.

(BMW photos from onlycarsandcars)