2005 Alpina B5 Touring (E61) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Alpina B5 Touring (E61) ranges between 1795 kg and 1810 kg (approximately 3957 to 3991 pounds). This reflects the vehicle's base weight with all necessary fluids, a full tank of fuel, and standard equipment, but without passengers or cargo. The maximum weight, which includes passengers, cargo, and any additional gear, goes up to between 2260 kg and 2350 kg (about 4980 to 5179 pounds). These weights underline the car's robust construction, balancing performance enhancements from Alpina with the added structural elements of a luxury station wagon.

The Alpina B5 Touring (E61) offers a versatile luggage capacity to accommodate various needs. With the rear seats in their upright position, the luggage volume is 500 liters (approximately 17.7 cubic feet), suitable for everyday grocery runs or luggage for a family trip. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity significantly expands to 1650 liters (around 58.3 cubic feet), making it highly practical for larger cargo loads or transporting bulky items. This flexibility is a key benefit of the station wagon body style.

The Alpina B5 Touring (E61) is equipped with staggered tire sizes: 275/35 R19 tires on the rear and 245/40 R19 tires on the front. These 19-inch tires combine a wide contact patch with a low-profile sidewall, enhancing grip, cornering stability, and overall road handling. The wider rear tires support better traction, which is essential for balancing the car’s powerful engine output and ensuring optimal performance. Together, these tires contribute to a dynamic driving experience tailored to the sporty yet refined nature of the Alpina B5 Touring.

Yes, the Alpina B5 Touring (E61) generally fits into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4843 mm (190.6 inches) and a width of 1846 mm (72.7 inches), it falls within typical garage size limits, which often average around 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length and 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width. The height of 1491 mm (58.7 inches) is well below standard garage clearance heights. However, garage users should measure their specific garage dimensions, especially width, to ensure comfortable maneuvering space in and out of the vehicle.

Compared to its predecessor, the Alpina B5 Touring (E60 generation), the E61 model maintains similar dimensional proportions but with slight refinements for enhanced practicality and design. The length of 4843 mm (190.6 inches) is fairly consistent with the earlier generation, ensuring ample interior space remains a priority. Its width, at 1846 mm (72.7 inches), and height, 1491 mm (58.7 inches), remain closely aligned, ensuring the vehicle retains the dynamic and stable stance typical for Alpina’s performance wagons. Although size changes are minimal, the newer generation benefits from better packaging and a more refined exterior design, enhancing both aesthetics and usability.

When compared to similar performance station wagons from its production era, such as the Audi RS4 Avant (B7) and the Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG Wagon (S211), the Alpina B5 Touring (E61) holds a competitive position. Its length of 4843 mm (190.6 inches) is close to the Mercedes E55 AMG’s 4867 mm (191.6 inches) but slightly longer than the Audi RS4 Avant's 4500 mm (177.2 inches). Width at 1846 mm (72.7 inches) is comparable to its rivals, contributing to stable handling characteristics. Capacity-wise, the B5’s luggage space of 500 liters (17.7 cubic feet) up to 1650 liters (58.3 cubic feet) with folded seats offers versatility on par with its competitors, making it a well-rounded option for those wanting luxury, performance, and daily usability.

The Alpina B5 Touring (E61)’s dimensions significantly enhance its driving dynamics and handling balance. Its relatively low height of 1491 mm (58.7 inches) contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving cornering stability and reducing body roll. The wide stance at 1846 mm (72.7 inches) helps to provide solid grip and composure on various road surfaces. Meanwhile, the length of 4843 mm (190.6 inches) provides stability at high speeds without sacrificing maneuverability in tighter spaces typical of a performance wagon. Alpina’s tuning further complements these dimensions with suspension adjustments that emphasize a blend of comfort and agility.

Based on its physical dimensions, the Alpina B5 Touring (E61) is classified as a mid-size station wagon. With a length of 4843 mm (190.6 inches), it fits into the mid-sized category, falling between compact wagons and full-size estates. This size allows it to offer generous interior room and cargo capacity while remaining manageable in urban and suburban settings. Its width (1846 mm or 72.7 inches) and height (1491 mm or 58.7 inches) further confirm its mid-size status, striking a balance between spaciousness and driver-friendly proportions typical in performance-oriented wagons of its era.

The Alpina B5 Touring (E61) distinguishes itself not only through its performance-enhanced dimensions but also with advanced engineering and luxury features. Based on the BMW 5 Series E61 Touring platform, it features a hand-built, tuned V8 engine delivering significant power and a refined driving experience. Inside, the car offers high-quality materials, Alpina-specific design touches such as exclusive wheels and badging, and an array of comfort features tailored to luxury and sportiness. The combination of spacious cargo capacity, sophisticated suspension, and upgraded brakes makes it suitable for enthusiasts seeking everyday usability with high-performance capabilities.