OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the maximum tolerated dose of E7070 in patients with solid tumors. II. Assess the qualitative and quantitative toxicity in terms of predictability, duration, intensity, onset, reversibility, and dose relationship of this treatment regimen in this patient population. III. Determine a safe dose for phase II evaluation. IV. Assess the pharmacokinetics of this treatment regimen in these patients. V. Determine any possible antitumor activity of this regimen in these patients.