What size wheels fit a BMW M5 II (E34)?

Roughly 8J–8.5J (ET5–ET25); staggered setups run 9J–9.5J rear.

How many BMW M5 are there on UK roads?

Approximately 6,002 BMW M5 are licensed in the UK, according to DfT VEH0124 vehicle-parc data (2025).

BMW M5 II (E34) — Wheel Fitment & Specs

By Torque, AIWheelTech vehicle & fitment specialist · 1984–present

TL;DR — The BMW M5 II (E34) (1984–present) uses a 5x120 bolt pattern, 72.6 mm centre bore, M12 x 1.5 bolts torqued to ~115 Nm. It accepts ~8J–8.5J wheels at ET5–ET25 front; staggered setups run 9J–9.5J rear (ET7–ET27).

Overview

The BMW M5 II (E34) is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series automobile developed by BMW's motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. It was produced from September 1988 to August 1995 and succeeded the E28 generation. Built on the E34 platform, it featured significant improvements over its predecessor, including a more powerful engine and enhanced aerodynamics. The car was available in saloon body style initially, with an estate version introduced later.

Wheel fitment

Bolt pattern (PCD)	5x120
Centre bore	72.6 mm
Bolt / thread	M12 x 1.5 (bolts)
Wheel-bolt torque	115 Nm
Seat type	tapered
Factory setup	staggered
TPMS	none

Aftermarket wheel sizes — read per position:

Position	Width	Offset
Front	8J–8.5J	ET5–ET25
Rear (staggered)	9J–9.5J	ET7–ET27

As a rule, each extra 1J of width wants roughly +8–10 ET to keep the wheel tucked. The exact offset and any spacer are confirmed by the fit-check.

Browse wheels that fit a BMW M5 →Get them fitted (UK)

UK popularity & demand

~6,002 BMW M5 licensed on UK roads — top 17% of models by volume.

Based on DfT VEH0124 vehicle-parc data (2025), there are approximately 6,002 BMW M5 on UK roads, placing it in the top 17% of car models by volume across our fitment database. That makes its wheel fitment a high-demand size to keep in stock — one reason we track its exact spec here.

Source: DfT/DVLA licensed-vehicle statistics (VEH0124), matched to the AIWheelTech fitment database.

Engines & drivetrain

Variant	Engine	Fuel	Power	Drive
3.8L S38	3.8 L (3,795 cc) straight-six engine	petrol	250 hp	RWD
3.6L S38	3.6 L (3,535 cc) straight-six engine	petrol	232 hp	RWD

Performance

Variant	Power	0–62 mph	Top speed
3.6L S38	232 hp	6.3 s	155 mph
3.8L S38	250 hp	5.9 s	155 mph

Dimensions

Length	4720 mm
Width	1750 mm
Height	1392 mm
Wheelbase	2760 mm
Kerb weight	1745 kg

Body styles & production

Body styles	Saloon, Estate
Produced	1984–present
Units produced	12,254

Trim levels

Standard

Factory colours

Alpinweiss IAlpinweiss IIIArktisblau MetallicBlackBlacksapphire MetallicBlauewater MetallicBronzit MetallicBurgundy Red MetallicCalypsorot MetallicCarbonschwarz MetallicCinnabar RedCosmos Blue MetallicDelphin MetallicDiamond Black MetallicHenna RedImolarot II SolidKalaharibeige MetallicLapis BlueLemansblau MetallicMalachite Green Metallic

History & notable variants

The second-generation M5 was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1987 and went into production shortly after. It featured cosmetic changes from the standard E34, including unique front and rear bumpers and side rocker panels. In late 1991 (model year 1992), the engine was upgraded to a 3.8-liter variant with increased power output. The car received a 6-speed manual transmission in 1994. Notable special editions included the Cecotto, Winkelhock, and 20 Jahre Motorsport Editions.

Reliability & owner notes

Pros: High-performance engine; Unique styling
Cons: Limited production run