2005 BMW 3 Series Sedan (E90) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW E90 3 Series Sedan ranges from about 1325 kg (2,920 lbs) to 1725 kg (3,802 lbs), depending on the exact model, engine, trim level, and equipment installed. Lighter versions typically have smaller engines and fewer luxury features, while higher-performance or fully equipped trims weigh more due to added components like larger wheels, performance parts, or advanced technology packages. This range indicates a well-balanced weight for a sedan that emphasizes driving dynamics.

The BMW E90 offers a luggage capacity of about 450 to 460 liters (15.9 to 16.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats up, providing ample space for daily luggage and groceries. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity significantly increases to between 460 and 1385 liters (16.2 to 48.9 cubic feet), allowing for much larger or longer items to be transported. This flexibility makes the E90 practical for weekend trips or larger cargo needs without compromising the sleek sedan profile.

Yes, the BMW E90 3 Series Sedan fits comfortably into a standard home garage. Typical garage dimensions are around 2400-2700 mm (94.5-106 inches) in width and roughly 2100-2300 mm (82.7-90.5 inches) in height. The E90’s width with mirrors folded is about 1817-1820 mm (71.5-71.7 inches), and its height ranges from 1418 to 1421 mm (55.8 to 56 inches), so it provides sufficient clearance for most standard garages, including space for opening doors and safe clearance.

The BMW E90 3 Series has a ground clearance of approximately 144 mm (5.7 inches), which is relatively low for a sedan and supports its sporty handling and great road-holding capabilities. This low ride height improves aerodynamic efficiency and lowers the vehicle's center of gravity, enhancing stability during cornering and spirited driving. However, drivers should be mindful of speed bumps and uneven terrain as the clearance is not very high, emphasizing the car’s focus on performance rather than off-road capability.

The BMW E90 3 Series Sedan supports various rim sizes, including 16, 17, and 18 inches. Specific options include 16Jx7, 17.8Jx7, and 18.8.5Jx8. Tire sizes correspond to these rims, with typical fits being 205/55 R16, 225/45 R17, 225/40 R18, and higher-performance options such as 255/35 R18 or 255/40 R17. These wheel and tire combinations affect ride comfort, handling precision, and aesthetics, allowing owners to tailor the car’s look and performance to their preferences.

Compared to its predecessor, the BMW E46, the E90 3 Series Sedan is generally slightly larger in all dimensions. The E90 measures approximately 4520-4526 mm in length versus the E46's roughly 4500 mm, and it is wider, measuring nearly 1817-1820 mm compared to the E46’s 1745 mm. Height remains similar, but the E90's increased width and slight length growth contribute to a more spacious cabin and updated styling. These incremental size increases improved interior space and helped the car maintain competitive dimensions in the compact executive segment.

The BMW E90 3 Series Sedan is dimensionally competitive with contemporaries such as the Audi A4 (B7) and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204). The E90's length of around 4520 mm is close to the Audi A4’s 4525 mm and the Mercedes C-Class’s 4520 mm, making them similarly sized vehicles in the segment. The E90 is slightly wider than the Audi A4 but comparable to the C-Class. All three offer similar luggage capacities and interior space, but the E90 tends to focus more on sporty handling dynamics, with its size accommodating a balanced blend of comfort and performance.

The BMW E90 3 Series Sedan supports a maximum roof load of 75 kg (165 lbs). This capacity is adequate for standard roof-mounted equipment such as bike racks, ski racks, or reasonably sized cargo boxes. When loading the roof, it is important to distribute weight evenly and avoid exceeding this limit to preserve vehicle safety and roof integrity. The E90’s aerodynamic roofline also helps reduce drag and noise when carrying external loads, but heavier or bulkier items should be secured carefully.

The maximum weight or gross vehicle weight (GVW) of the BMW E90 varies from 1840 kg (4,056 lbs) to 2170 kg (4,784 lbs), depending on model configuration and equipment. This figure represents the total allowable weight of the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and fuel. It ensures safety margins against overloading, helping maintain vehicle control and braking performance. Buyers should consult their specific model’s manual to understand exact GVW limits for optimal performance and safety.