1962 BMW New Class Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW New Class ranges between 1040 and 1150 kilograms (2293 to 2535 pounds), while the maximum weight capacity spans from 1440 to 1550 kilograms (3175 to 3417 pounds). This relatively lightweight design contributes to agile handling and efficient performance, characteristic of BMW's approach to sporty sedans in the 1960s and early 70s.

The BMW New Class offers a luggage capacity of 600 liters (approximately 21.2 cubic feet), which was quite spacious for its class and era. This generous boot space makes the New Class practical for everyday use, capable of carrying luggage for trips, shopping, or daily errands without compromising passenger comfort.

The BMW New Class has a ride height or ground clearance of 150 mm (approximately 5.9 inches). This moderate clearance offers a good balance, allowing the car to handle most urban road conditions and light off-pavement roughness typical of its time, while maintaining a low center of gravity for improved driving dynamics.

The BMW New Class was fitted with rim sizes ranging from 5J x 14 inches to 5.5J x 14 inches. These 14-inch rims were standard for sedans of that era and contributed to a comfortable ride with sufficient grip for the car's performance level, complementing the classic and sporty styling of the vehicle.

Yes, the BMW New Class fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4500 mm (177.2 inches), width of 1710 mm (67.3 inches), and a height under 1.45 meters (about 57.1 inches), it is compact enough to fit standard garage spaces designed to accommodate vehicles up to roughly 5 meters in length and 2.5 meters in width, leaving ample space for doors to open and passenger movement.

The BMW New Class marked a considerable evolution from BMW's pre-1962 sedans, primarily in modernizing the body style and optimizing dimensions for both performance and comfort. Compared to its predecessors, the New Class had a longer wheelbase, more streamlined body, and slightly increased width, which provided better interior space and road presence. This shift reflected BMW's growing focus on sportier, driver-oriented sedans during the 1960s.

In comparison to other mid-size sedans of the 1960s, such as the Mercedes-Benz W110 or the Alfa Romeo Giulia, the BMW New Class was slightly more compact in width but similar in length and height. Its footprint was balanced to offer sporty handling without sacrificing interior comfort, making it competitive in the segment. The luggage capacity of 600 liters was notably generous compared to many peers, emphasizing practicality alongside sportiness.

The BMW New Class can safely support a roof load of up to 75 kilograms (165 pounds). This figure is important for owners considering roof racks, luggage carriers, or other rooftop accessories. Exceeding this limit could compromise handling or damage the roof structure. The roof load capability makes it feasible to transport additional luggage or gear for travel, enhancing the vehicle's versatility for daily use or longer trips.