What is the minimum ground clearance of the BMW 5 Series?
3 Answers
The minimum ground clearance of the BMW 5 Series is 149mm. The minimum ground clearance of the BMW 5 Series refers to the distance between the lowest point (excluding the wheels) and the supporting plane, which is used to indicate the vehicle's ability to pass over obstacles such as rocks and tree stumps without collision. A higher ground clearance for the BMW 5 Series improves its off-road capability, but if the ground clearance is too high, the stability at high speeds may decrease. The BMW 5 Series (English name: CAMRY) was first designed in 1916. Its body dimensions are: length 5106mm, width 1868mm, height 1500mm, with a wheelbase of 3105mm. Generally, the ground clearance of sedans ranges between 110mm and 150mm, while SUVs have a ground clearance between 200mm and 250mm. However, the ground clearance of the BMW 5 Series is not static; it also depends on the load condition. Therefore, changes in ground clearance should be considered based on the load variations of the Camry. When selecting a vehicle, ground clearance can be one of the reference factors. The choice should depend on the vehicle's intended use and the road conditions. For urban areas with well-maintained roads, a vehicle with lower ground clearance can enhance stability and comfort. For long-distance travel or driving in areas with poor road conditions, a vehicle with higher ground clearance may be preferable to avoid damage to the chassis.
I've always enjoyed studying car specifications. As a fan of the BMW 5 Series, I can tell you that its minimum ground clearance is typically around 140mm. This measurement is taken at the lowest point of the chassis and is designed to balance urban driving comfort with basic passability. If you've driven on uneven roads, you'll find that 140mm is sufficient for most speed bumps and potholes, but you need to be cautious on dirt roads or steep slopes to avoid scraping the undercarriage. Specific models may vary slightly—for example, newer 2023 models might have minor adjustments—but they generally fall within the 130-150mm range. I recommend checking your owner's manual to confirm your exact model. Overall, this clearance gives the 5 Series a stable ride—not as low as a sports car, but don't expect it to handle off-road terrain as easily as an SUV.
I've driven several BMW 5 Series cars over the years, with a minimum ground clearance of about 140mm, which is quite practical to be honest. When driving in the city, such as over small potholes or speed bumps, the body hardly shakes; but it can be a bit challenging when driving in the countryside or climbing hills, occasionally hearing slight scraping sounds. This design is intended to make the car handle flexibly while protecting the chassis. The newer models might be slightly different, for example, 140mm is a standard value, but with larger tires, the clearance might be a bit smaller. It's sufficient for daily use, but if you frequently drive on rough roads, choosing a car with higher ground clearance would be more reassuring. Remember to regularly maintain and check the suspension to prevent the clearance from becoming lower.
