Why The E60 BMW 5-Series Is Prettier Than We Give It Credit For

When the all-new E60 5-Series arrived, many wondered what the hell BMW, and then-chief of design Chris Bangle were up to. Next to the beautifully-proportioned E39 that came before it, the E60 looked peculiar, with headlights that looked like cat eye glasses and a porky boot lid dumped on the rear end. I for one thought the thing was pig ugly.

But now, three years since we said auf wiedersehen to the E60 Five, I've had something of an epiphany. Is it just me, or is this beast starting to look like a beauty? There could be a number of reasons for this. Maybe it's because the E39 is starting to look a little dated, or perhaps the E60 was ahead of its time?

The biggest factor though has to be its distinctiveness in the range at the time. These days, the boys at Munich seem to be following in the footsteps of Audi in creating a range of cars that all look way too similar. Just take a look at the current F30 3-Series, then the most recent F10 5-Series. Can you tell the difference? Didn't think so...

While the current 5-Series is an instantly forgettable blob of generic exec saloon that's barely different to its baby brother, the E60 leaves a lasting impression. The 'flame surfacing' design technique that Chris Bangle became noted for gives the car a brawny, muscular look. And in M-Sport trim with the the associated big wheels, the E60 looks a force to be reckoned with.

Let's also remember that the generation also spawned one of the greatest and most symphonic super saloons BMW ever made, the mighty V10 M5.

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So, have the reduced daylight hours left me in a temporary state of insanity, or am I on to something here? Voice your comments below.