1972 BMW 5 Series (E12) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW 5 Series (E12) ranges from 1230 kg to 1385 kg (2712 to 3053 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. Its maximum permissible weight varies between 1700 kg and 1840 kg (3748 to 4056 lbs), ensuring it can carry passengers and cargo within safe limits without compromising performance or safety.

The luggage capacity of the BMW 5 Series (E12) sedan is 440 liters (approximately 15.5 cubic feet). For a 1970s mid-size sedan, this was quite practical, providing ample space for everyday travel and moderate luggage needs. By modern standards, this is a modest trunk size but remains sufficient for most passenger needs.

The BMW 5 Series (E12) features a ride height or ground clearance of approximately 139 to 140 mm (5.47 to 5.51 inches). This balanced ground clearance suits both urban environments and highway driving, offering a stable ride while accommodating mild road irregularities and speed bumps efficiently.

The BMW 5 Series (E12) rides on 14-inch rims, paired commonly with tire sizes 175/80 R14 and 195/70 R14. These tire specifications provide a blend of comfort and handling characteristics typical for sedans of that era, balanced for both performance and ride quality on various road surfaces.

With its length of 4620 mm (181.9 inches) and width of 1690 mm (66.5 inches), the BMW 5 Series (E12) is compact enough to fit comfortably within a typical standard garage, which usually accommodates vehicles up to approximately 4877 mm (192 inches) in length and 2438 mm (96 inches) in width. This makes parking and storage convenient for most residential garages.

The E12 generation was actually the first generation of the BMW 5 Series; it did not have a direct predecessor named E10 in the 5 Series line. Instead, the E12 introduced BMW's entry into the mid-size luxury sedan market, setting the template for future 5 Series models. Its dimensions established the class standard that subsequent generations would evolve from.

The BMW 5 Series (E12) slots neatly among mid-size sedans of its time, with a length of 4620 mm and width of 1690 mm. For example, compared to the Mercedes-Benz W114/W115 series (approx. 4600 mm length) and the Audi 100 C1 (approx. 4760 mm length), the E12 was slightly shorter but offered competitive width and height. Its balanced size favored driving dynamics and urban usability without sacrificing interior space.

The BMW 5 Series (E12) usually came with 14-inch rims equipped with tire sizes 175/80 R14 or 195/70 R14. These tire sizes provided a good balance between sidewall height and rim diameter, contributing to a comfortable ride with adequate cushioning over rough surfaces while maintaining responsive handling, which aligned with the car's sporty yet practical design philosophy.

With a height of 1425 mm (56.1 inches), the BMW 5 Series (E12) offers sufficient headroom for most adult passengers, maintaining a comfortable interior environment. This relatively moderate height also contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing vehicle stability and aerodynamic efficiency compared to taller sedans, which supports better driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.