2002

4837cc

Alpina Green

Full History

     here is no doubt that demand for the last few generations of Alpina, has risen dramatically since the announcement that BMW will buy Alpina.  It was inevitable and we will see major changes to the brand making it less exclusive and niche. This will take Alpina far closer to mass-production than ever, which of course it needs to survive. There will be collateral damage though. I believe the hardcore Alpina enthusiast will be looking elsewhere for their fixes or desperately holding on to and preserving the last true Alpina motor cars.

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BMWs E39 range of cars produced between 1995 and 2004 are already legend.  Loved by the motoring press and raved about.  The driving experience of all models from 520i – M5 gave compliance and comfort, blended with sporty enthusiast feel. The E39 was the first major leap forward in chassis design and technology for the 5-series.  Our workshop is regularly visited by owners of these cars, booking them in for restoration and future proofing work while quoting the same thing over and over again. “What could I possibly replace it with”!

The B10 for Alpina was a massive success and saw very high production figures for such a low volume brand.  Journalist complimented the B10 which helped drive demand.  Despite the B10’s success, it is well known that any model needs a facelift and evolution during its production run. Enter the B10 V8 S.

The V8S took the B10 to new heights of luxury and performance.  Based on the facelifted E39 540i, the Alpina engine was stroked taking capacity to 4837cc, now producing 375 BHP and a staggering 510 N/m of torque. This set a new top speed of 170 MPH. This same version of Alpina engine went on to power the Alpina Z8’s.  Still running the now revered Alpina Switch-Tronic gearbox with change buttons on the steering wheel. The attention to detail was above and beyond with B10’s featuring Alpina interior trim, Alpina steering wheel, Alpina exterior trims, Alpina front and rear aero package, Alpina exhaust system, Alpina suspension, Alpina Brembo front brakes, Alpina 19” wheels, Alpina floor mats, Alpina instruments, Alpina door sill trims, interior Alpina plaque and Alpina exterior stripes.

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