While it shed the E39 specific centerbore, the low offset OE E60 and E61 5 series wheels standard on most cars in this generation make selecting appropriate aftermarket wheels difficult. We’ve outlined chassis specific options for both RWD and AWD E60 fitments, for owners looking to improve the performance of their 5 series. Wheels like the forged VS-5RS, SM-10RS, EC-7RS or flow formed ARC-8, FL-5, SM-10 and EC-7 are the perfect option to optimize aesthetics and fitment. Be sure to consult our E60 E61 5 Series Wheel & Tire Fitment Guide prior to purchasing your next set of Apex wheels.
The E60 and E61 5 series launched in 2003 after the well loved E39 generation, and continued production through 2010.The E60 marked a huge increase in the number of modern features present on most models that continue to this day. I-Drive displays in the dashboard were standard on the E60, along with bluetooth calling integration which became standard after the 2004 model year in North America. These cars came equipped with a wider range of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines. M54 530i models gave way to N52 and N53 engines, while the 535i and xi introduced the N54 engine to a 5 series chassis. N62 V8s with varying displacements and outputs powered 540i, 545i, and 550i models. The range topping M5 used an F1 inspired V10 power plant, with inspiration taken from its partnership as an engine supplier and title partner with Sauber in the early 2000s.
The E61 touring or wagon version was available in the US and could be equipped with the spectacular panoramic roof option. This was the last 5 series wagon to be sold in the United states. The E61 chassis was also available in M5 guise in very limited numbers for European markets, to the delight of a few lucky enthusiasts.
AWD “xi” models are of particular note to those buying aftermarket wheels, as the hubs equipped on these cars require adjusted wheel fitments and higher offset wheels versus the RWD E60s. Standard rear-wheel drive models are built around low offset fitments and relatively narrow acceptable wheel and tire widths, especially up front, unless the cars are heavily modified. Luckily for you, we’ve got aftermarket E60 and E61 5 series wheel configurations perfect for every model.
While the used prices for E60s are incredibly affordable, the aging electronics and complex powertrains make selecting a good one incredibly important. Be sure to review HotCar’s E60 5 series buyer’s guide prior to purchase.
* Designed to fit BMW 5x120mm center caps
Our new forgings weigh as much as 120 pounds before machining. To form such a thick blank we require special equipment capable of 10,000 metric tons of pressure. This extreme pressure increases the strength of the aluminum by eliminating porosity and improving the grain structure.
Many companies use 3rd-party blanks intended for non-motorsport wheels which can severely limit sizes, concavity, spoke design, and critical brake clearance. We designed our very own blank profiles from scratch to give us total control over the final product.
To be as light as possible the VS-5RS features extra-deep, side-milled spokes. Any excess material that doesn’t add strength is carved out using a precision CNC ball cutter. Side-milling is often deemed cost-prohibitive by others, but for true performance without compromise we believe it's essential.
Our forged Sprint™ wheels are lightweight without the strength compromises found on typical lightweight wheels. First, we carved out as much material as possible, then we purposefully added one pound back to reinforce critical areas, creating a stronger inner lip and a higher load rating.² What’s the point of a lightweight wheel if it’s fragile?
We conducted extensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to reinforce high-stress areas and to remove material where it didn’t improve strength. The result is a wheel that is exceptionally light without the strength compromises found on typical lightweight wheels.²
We don't rely solely on computer simulations or unverifiable in-house testing. We believe independent testing is critical to protect consumers in this unregulated industry. We chose STL, an independent lab in Ohio, to test our Sprint™ wheels far above JWL standards, including increases in testing duration, impact drop height, and total load.
Introducing the Sprint™ spec inner lip, with a unique channel profile that makes it even stronger than our previous designs. So even though our Sprint™ wheels are pounds lighter than comparable flow formed wheels, the inner lip is stronger.
More reinforcement
than our flow formed wheels3
From day one, APEX has been on a mission to build wheels that clear big brakes. Our new forged wheels are the product of everything we’ve developed over the past 10+ years, including an innovative high-clearance barrel design and vehicle-specific spoke profiles.
Our new forgings were redesigned to create extra deep, concave spoke profiles. Their new shape allows us to make any profile, from flat to deep and everything in between. Each one is optimized for a specific application using 3D laser scans of factory and aftermarket brake kits.
Whether it's a day at the track or months of street driving, repeated hard braking and acceleration can make a tire slip along the bead seat and go out of balance, causing vibration. Knurled beads help, but are less effective when painted over. Our forged line features unpainted knurled beads that stay sharp and maximize grip.
Track wheels need track tools. Don’t settle for wheels that require undersized tuner lugs or thin walled sockets. All APEX wheels accommodate over-sized race lugs and impact sockets to make swapping wheels lightning fast.
Socket Diameter Clearance
As track enthusiasts ourselves, we know how frustrating it is to try to locate and decipher wheel specs that have been hastily hammered into the rim or become unreadable over time. With our new Sprint™ wheels, we chose to invest a little extra and laser-engrave the specs on the barrel, in plain sight, making them easy to find and read. (You’re welcome.)
All VS-5RS wheels are purpose built for select vehicle applications. Very few applications require centering rings.
All APEX wheels come with our gloss black cap included that is interchangeable with the OE cap. We also offer additional colors for select fitments.
APEX wheels can be used with all OEM mounting hardware, proper aftermarket hardware and most wheel spacers. Wheel locks and stud conversion kits also work perfectly.
All APEX wheels accept OEM and aftermarket Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors and standard fit valve stems. If you don’t have sensors, then select from our metal stems available in multiple finishes.
All Apex Wheels come with a
lifetime structural warranty against defects in
workmanship and materials, plus a 1 year finish warranty.
Exchanges are fast, easy, and hassle-free.
See terms and conditions.
Curb rash or pothole damage on the street? Make an oopsie at
the track?
We’ve all been there. APEX is proud to offer 50% off replacement
wheels, no matter the damage.
See terms and conditions.
¹ VS-5RS vs. the original EC-7R, comparing side milling of 18x9” ET46 5x130 fitment.
² Strength and weight comparisons are based on an 18” BMW 5x120 wheel.
³ Comparing the amount of material reinforcement in our standard inner lip profile vs Sprint™ spec inner lip profile on an 18” wheel.
⁴ All wheels compared with equivalent 18x10” ET25 5x120mm / 72.56mm fitment