2003 BMW 5 Series (E60) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW 5 Series (E60) ranges from 1475 kg to 1675 kg (3,251 to 3,692 lbs), depending on the variant and optional equipment. The maximum permissible weight, or gross vehicle weight, varies between 2010 kg and 2235 kg (4,432 to 4,927 lbs). This weight allowance accounts for passengers, cargo, and additional load, ensuring the car maintains optimal safety and handling characteristics.

The BMW 5 Series (E60) provides a generous luggage capacity of 520 liters (18.4 cubic feet), which is quite spacious for a mid-size sedan. Interestingly, folding the rear seats does not increase this luggage capacity as the standard luggage compartment already maximizes available space. The trunk is designed to handle everyday luggage and grocery needs comfortably, and the 100 kg (220 lbs) roof load capacity offers additional storage solutions such as roof boxes or bicycle mounts.

Yes, the BMW 5 Series (E60) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Standard garage dimensions typically range around 2440 mm (96 inches) in width and 6100 mm (240 inches) in length. The E60’s dimensions — 4841 mm (190.6 inches) long and 1846 mm (72.6 inches) wide (excluding mirrors) — allow sufficient space for parking and opening doors. However, with mirrors opened at 2030 mm (79.9 inches), parking in narrower garages might require care to avoid mirror damage.

The BMW 5 Series (E60) measures 2030 mm (79.9 inches) in width with mirrors fully opened, which is about 184 mm (7.3 inches) wider than the car’s body width of 1846 mm (72.6 inches). This extended width is a critical factor when parking in narrow spots or maneuvering through tight spaces such as narrow urban streets or parking garages. Drivers need to consider mirror width to avoid accidental scrapes or damage. However, the mirrors can often be folded in manually or electronically in some variants to reduce width and increase maneuverability.

The BMW 5 Series (E60) supports a variety of rim sizes including 7J x 16, 7.5J x 17, 8J x 17, 8J x 18, 9J x 18, 9.5J x 18, 9J x 19, and 7J x 16 LM. Corresponding tire sizes that fit these rims range from 225/55 R16, 225/50 R17, 245/45 R17, 245/40 R18, 275/35 R18, 275/30 R19, 245/35 R19, to 225/50 R16. This wide spectrum offers flexibility for balancing ride comfort, handling, and sporty aesthetics depending on personal preference or specific model trims.

When compared to its predecessor, the BMW 5 Series E39, the E60 is slightly larger in most dimensions. The E60’s length is 4841 mm (190.6 inches), whereas the E39 measured approximately 4760 mm (187.4 inches). The width of the E60 at 1846 mm (72.6 inches) is marginally wider than the E39’s 1785 mm (70.3 inches). These increases translate into a roomier cabin and more road presence. The E60 also exhibits a more modern, aggressive design while maintaining BMW’s sporty handling reputation.

In the market segment of mid-size luxury sedans from the early 2000s, the BMW 5 Series (E60) offered competitive dimensions and features compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211) and Audi A6 (C6). The E60’s length of 4841 mm (190.6 inches) and width of 1846 mm (72.6 inches) are comparable to or slightly larger than its competitors, giving it a balance of spaciousness and agility. Additionally, the E60 was praised for its advanced technology, including iDrive infotainment, a modern design language, and sporty driving dynamics, often setting it apart from contemporaries.

The roof load capacity of the BMW 5 Series (E60) is 100 kg (220 lbs). This limit supports practical uses such as mounting roof boxes for additional luggage, bicycle racks, ski racks, or other cargo carriers designed for rooftop use. Keeping the load within this weight ensures the vehicle’s stability and safety while driving. For families or travelers, this expands the car’s cargo versatility, especially for longer trips or outdoor activities needing extra equipment.

The curb weight of the BMW 5 Series (E60) ranges between 1475 kg (3,251 lbs) and 1675 kg (3,692 lbs). This variation depends on several factors including engine choice, drivetrain (rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive), trim levels, optional equipment like sunroofs, sound systems, and safety packages, as well as transmission types. Diesel variants or models with larger engines typically weigh more, whereas entry-level or base models are lighter. The weight variance influences fuel economy, handling, and performance.