2001 BMW 7 Series (E65) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The BMW 7 Series (E65) has a curb weight ranging from 1715 kg to 2015 kg (approximately 3782 to 4441 lbs), depending on the specific model and features equipped. Its maximum gross vehicle weight ranges between 2370 kg and 2630 kg (about 5227 to 5799 lbs). This substantial weight reflects the luxury equipment, engine options, and build quality. While the heavier weight enhances stability and ride comfort, it slightly impacts fuel efficiency and acceleration compared to lighter sedans.

The BMW 7 Series (E65) provides a generous luggage capacity of 500 liters (around 17.7 cubic feet). This is ample space for suitcases, golf bags, or groceries, making it well-suited for long trips and practical everyday use. The large trunk space allows BMW 7 Series owners to travel comfortably without sacrificing luxury or interior passenger space.

Standard residential garages in many parts of the world typically measure around 2400 mm (about 7 feet 10 inches) wide and 4800 mm (approximately 15 feet 9 inches) deep. The BMW 7 Series (E65) exceeds the length of most standard garages at 5029 mm (198 inches or 16.5 feet), which can make parking the car inside a standard garage challenging. The width at 1902 mm (74.8 inches) usually fits, but owners should check their garage depth if they plan to park it inside regularly.

Compared to its predecessor, the E38, the E65 BMW 7 Series is longer, wider, and taller, reflecting a push towards more interior luxury and space. The E65's length is 5029 mm versus the E38’s roughly 4950 mm, making the newer model about 79 mm longer. The width has also increased slightly to 1902 mm from approximately 1866 mm on the E38. These enhancements contribute to improved passenger comfort, especially in rear seat legroom and shoulder space, making the E65 a more spacious luxury sedan.

The BMW 7 Series (E65) offers rim sizes of 8J x 17 and 8J x 18 inches, paired with tire sizes such as 245/55 R17, 225/60 R17, 245/55 R17 W, and 245/50 R18. These wide tires and large rims contribute to stable handling, enhanced road grip, and a comfortable ride—key traits for a luxury sedan. Larger rims can improve cornering and braking performance but may slightly affect ride softness. These tire options also provide a balance between comfort and sportiness, typical for a BMW flagship.

While exact interior dimensions vary slightly by seating position, the E65’s increased overall size compared to its predecessor translates into better front and rear legroom, headroom, and shoulder space. This spaciousness enhances passenger comfort, particularly for rear occupants where luxury and relaxation are prioritized in a flagship sedan. The roomy cabin supports long-distance travel with less fatigue, complemented by advanced seat options and fit-and-finish.

When compared to peers like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 and Audi A8 D3 from the same era, the BMW 7 Series (E65) is competitively sized. The E65’s length of 5029 mm places it slightly longer than the W220 S-Class (~5043 mm) and comfortably within the size range of full-size luxury sedans of the early 2000s. Its width of 1902 mm is typical for this class, offering a balance of cabin space and drivability. Overall, the E65 holds its own dimensionally, providing spaciousness expected in the executive luxury segment.

The E65 generation marked a significant departure in design for the 7 Series, featuring a bold and controversial styling under BMW’s then-chief designer Chris Bangle. Technologically, it introduced the iDrive infotainment system, which centralized vehicle controls into a single interface, a pioneering move at the time. The E65 also incorporated advanced safety features such as side curtain airbags and electronic stability control, alongside improved comfort amenities and optional V12 engines, setting new benchmarks for luxury and innovation in the segment.

Absolutely. The BMW 7 Series (E65) is designed as a full-size luxury sedan that comfortably accommodates families seeking both space and premium features. Its large dimensions translate into ample legroom and headroom for passengers, while a 500-liter trunk ensures sufficient luggage capacity. Luxurious interior materials, advanced climate control, and optional rear-seat amenities make it an excellent choice for family travel, especially for those who value comfort, safety, and refinement.