ALPINA B6 classic cars for sale

History of the ALPINA B6

The ALPINA B6 emerged in 1978 as ALPINA transitioned from providing tuning packages for BMW to delivering complete vehicles with their own manufacturer status. First introduced using the BMW 3 Series (E21) as its base, the inaugural B6 stunned the German market by offering a 2.8-litre straight-six engine with cutting-edge full electronic ignition—a first in series production. The balance of performance and daily usability became ALPINA’s signature. By the early 1980s, the B6 was iteratively improved and, in 1984, evolved on the basis of the new E30 3 Series. These changes kept the model at the forefront of performance and technology for its era. ALPINA continually refined the engine management, ensuring their variants maintained distinct advantages over their BMW base models, both in outright speed and technological sophistication.

Model history of the ALPINA B6

The B6 lineage began with the E21-based variant, running from 1978 to 1983, using ALPINA’s modified 2.8-litre engine and 200 hp output. Two-door only, the first iteration had a production run of 324 units. The second series improved acceleration and top speed, limited to just 209 units. The E30-based B6, including the iconic B6 3.5, followed, departing from the M3’s four-cylinder in favour of a larger, more powerful six-cylinder—261 hp and a 0–100 km/h time of 6.4 seconds. Rarer still is the B6 3.5S, using the M3 shell and a 3.43-litre engine. With the arrival of the E36, the B6 nameplate was phased out, transitioning into the B3 series. Across all generations, production numbers remained extremely limited, with certain variants, such as the B6 3.5S, built in runs as low as 62 units.

Highlights and Unique Features of the ALPINA B6

Every generation of the ALPINA B6 is characterised by comprehensive engineering changes beyond the standard BMW base: bespoke modifications to combustion chambers, fuel injection, camshafts, pistons, and exhaust systems. Early models pioneered fully electronic ignition control. Each car was hand-finished, often with custom accessories and trim, making no two examples identical. Select models feature exclusive ALPINA instrumentation, unique wheels, and special paint schemes. The E30 B6 3.5 outperformed the equivalent BMW M3 in both power delivery and acceleration, cementing its reputation among enthusiasts.

Technical Data of the ALPINA B6

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among the rarest ALPINA B6 models is the B6 3.5S based on the BMW E30 M3 shell: Only 62 were built, integrating a 3.43-litre six-cylinder in a chassis designed for four-cylinder competition cars. The B6 2.7, partially targeted at the Japanese market, is another collectable rarity with only 136 units produced globally, some in full Euro specification. The E30-series B6 3.5 saw just 218 examples, including only 19 four-door models; all such variants stand out for their exclusivity within the collector market.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

The ALPINA B6 models, being low-volume, extensively engineered performance cars, require attentive maintenance. ALPINA-specific components like pistons, camshafts, and custom exhaust systems can be challenging to source and expensive to replace. Electronics, especially the early fully electronic ignition systems, may need specialist attention. As production numbers were small, body and trim replacement parts—often unique to each car—are rare. Ensuring service history and correct ALPINA parts are present is crucial when buying.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The B6 takes BMW’s robust straight-six engines and reworks them for sharper throttle response, greater torque bands, and unique driving character. The jump from the standard 3 Series to a B6 involves noticeable differences in acceleration and top speed; for example, the B6 3.5 (E30) eclipses the output and performance figures of both the M3 2.3 and the period’s BMW 325i. ALPINA’s signature suspension tuning enhances both comfort and precision, ensuring the B6 is as adept at autobahn speeds as on winding roads. - E21 B6 2.8: 200 hp, 0–100 km/h in 7.2s, top speed 220 km/h.

• E30 B6 3.5: Up to 261 hp (non-CAT), 0–100 km/h in 6.4s, top speed above 250 km/h.
• E30 B6 3.5S: Based on BMW M3, 254 hp, 3.43-litre engine, extremely limited production.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

ALPINA B6s are known for distinctive styling cues, both inside and out: bespoke striping, exclusive alloy wheels, and often personalised paint finishes set them apart from base BMWs. Interiors typically feature ALPINA-specific upholstery and instruments, as well as custom steering wheels and gear knobs. Options varied by customer, including premium materials and unique trims not available on standard 3 Series models. The focus on driving ergonomics paired with understated luxury remains a hallmark.

Other Features and Notable Aspects

Many ALPINA B6s were configured to individual customer specifications, with an almost unlimited range of accessories and extras. Early B6s marked the beginning of ALPINA’s philosophy of tailoring each car not just technically but also aesthetically to client wishes. Documentation and provenance are crucial, as original ALPINA build records significantly affect collectability.

Summary

The ALPINA B6 stands apart due to its small production numbers and deep technical differentiation from any standard BMW 3 Series. Its combination of ALPINA’s engineering, unique design, and performance credentials underpin strong demand, especially for the E21 and E30 generations. Maintenance and parts sourcing are key considerations, but the reward is a car that delivers a specific blend of exclusivity, speed, and craft unmatched in its category.