ALPINA B3 classic car for sale

History of the ALPINA B3

ALPINA, originally a tuning house founded in 1965, evolved into a recognised manufacturer from 1978 with its own chassis numbers and approvals. The first ALPINA B3 appeared in 1987, based on the BMW E30 325i, as a highly re-worked performance sedan, coupé, touring, or cabriolet. Unlike stock BMWs, ALPINA versions featured uprated engines, unique styling, and a luxury interior. Each generation has followed the same philosophy: combine unassuming looks with precise engineering and everyday usability. Since its debut, the B3 line encompasses versions across E30, E36, E46, E9x, and F30 BMW platforms, with each model hand-assembled in Buchloe, Germany. Production numbers have always remained limited—often just a few hundred units per body style, enhancing their standing among aficionados.

Model History of the ALPINA B3 Series

The B3 family traces its roots to the E30-based B3 2.7 (from 1987), with about 204 hp and rare all-wheel drive variants. Successive generations increased in sophistication and performance: the E36 B3 3.0 and B3 3.2 delivered 250–265 hp; the much-admired E46 B3 3.3 and B3 S pushed up to 305 hp, available in sedan, coupé, touring, and cabriolet forms—often in low numbers per version. With the E9x series (E90/E91/E92/E93), ALPINA introduced the BiTurbo straight-six with up to 400 hp and both rear- and all-wheel drive. The F30 B3 continued the tradition, pairing aggressive performance with daily usability. Every evolution brought technical upgrades, unique equipment, and further customisation options, keeping the B3 distinct from both mass-market BMWs and purebred sports cars.

Highlights of the ALPINA B3

ALPINA B3 models are distinguished by subtle, yet unmistakable features: unique ALPINA alloys (usually 18 or 19-inch), tailored spoilers, four-tailpipe exhausts, and signature ALPINA deco stripes. Inside, lavish use of Lavalina leather, hand-finished wood trim, blue ALPINA instrument faces, and individually numbered plaques underline exclusivity. The chassis, suspension (often featuring Bilstein/ALPINA shocks and custom springs), and braking systems are precisely recalibrated by ALPINA for an ideal balance of luxury and dynamics. Advanced equipment—such as climate control, heated sports seats, navigation, and premium audio—is typically fitted as standard. Most importantly, every engine is extensively uprated by ALPINA: special pistons, mapped ECUs, bespoke exhausts, and, in later models, twin-turbo technology combine for punchy power delivery and a unique character.

The B3 E46 holds a supply share of 47.7% among ALPINA B3 listings, and 33.6% of viewing demand, making it the most prevalent and viewed variant in the series. The E36 (supply 13.8%, demand 27.1%) and E30 (supply 7.7%, demand 20.5%) also have notable presence and interest, reflecting a strong following for earlier iterations. Newer generations such as E92 and F30 are less commonly listed but still draw attention, attesting to the enduring appeal across decades.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Numerous B3 models are rare by design: for example, the E46 B3 S Convertible (292 units) and B3 3.2 E36 (85 units) exist in very small numbers, often identified by a production plaque in the cabin. The B3 GT3 (2011) was a limited edition with racing livery, aerodynamic upgrades, and an output of over 400 hp. ALPINA offers a broad customisation programme, so individual cars often feature bespoke colour combinations, interior materials, and unique trims. Certified documentation and full provenance enhance collectability—the combination of confirmed production number, original logbook, tool kit, and ALPINA certificate is a must-have for collectors.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Engineers at ALPINA thoroughly re-work the standard BMW engines for increased displacement, improved combustion, custom camshaft profiles, and optimised forced induction (on turbo models). Outputs range from 204 hp (E30) right up to 410 hp and 600 Nm torque in the latest F30 BiTurbo. Acceleration typically spans 0–100 km/h in 4.1–7.1 seconds depending on model and year. The chassis receives uniquely tuned Bilstein/ALPINA dampers, custom springs, and stiffer anti-roll bars, creating ride and handling characteristics that blend comfort with outstanding roadholding. Transmission choices range from precise 6-speed manual gearboxes to the ALPINA Switch-Tronic automatic, which uses steering wheel paddle shifters for direct manual control. All-wheel drive (allrad) is available on selected models, particularly later variants, further boosting traction and usability.

• ALPINA B3 E46: 3.3/3.4L I6, 280–305 hp, broadest supply (47.7%) and highest demand (33.6%).
• ALPINA B3 3.0/3.2 E36: 250–265 hp, rare (13.8% supply), classic appeal thanks to straight-six and manual/automatic options.
• ALPINA B3 BiTurbo (E9x/F30): 360–410 hp, twin-turbo, sub-5 second 0–100 km/h times, available as sedan, touring, coupé, convertible, with all-wheel-drive options.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

B3 models are set apart by subtle yet distinctive ALPINA aesthetics: tailored spoilers, quad exhausts, exclusive alloys, and characteristic ALPINA decor stripes (usually optional). Paint finishes often include trademark Alpina Blue metallic or other special-order hues (e.g., Avus Blue, Saphir Black). Interiors are finished to a standard far beyond BMW M-cars—hand-stitched Lavalina leather, rare wood inlays, signature ALPINA blue dials with red needles, and embroidered emblems on seats and floor mats. High-specification features include power memory seats, seat heating, advanced stereo (often Harman/Kardon), navigation, and a suite of additional comfort and safety technologies (PDC, xenon headlights, rain sensor, electric glass roof, etc.). Each car typically carries a numbered plaque highlighting its production place and uniqueness. A wide range of bespoke requests, from colour choices to interior materials, were possible by special order, resulting in a vast spread of unique specifications even within the same model year.

Other relevant features

Documentation—including the ALPINA logbook, maintenance record, tool kit, detailed provenance, and original literature—plays a critical role in the value and desirability of these cars. Many B3s remain in the hands of enthusiasts, who maintain the vehicles in original specification. Careful inspection for originality and completeness is crucial when selecting an ALPINA B3.

Summary

The ALPINA B3 series stands at the intersection of engineering finesse, luxurious comfort, and understated exclusivity. With each generation, ALPINA seamlessly blended BMW underpinnings with hand-finished performance upgrades, creating vehicles that excel in both everyday usability and spirited driving. Extremely limited production, a high degree of individualisation, and a focus on authentic documentation ensure ongoing enthusiasm among classic car collectors and driving purists alike.