Twenty-one years of a cult classic.
Since the 1989 B10 BiTurbo Alpina has been improving performance and efficiency through the use of turbochargers in many of their models. The 2010 B3 S BiTurbo is no exception, using the twin-turbocharged BMW 3.0-liter inline six to create an efficient and powerful car.
The powerful turbocharged inline six engine used in the B3 S BiTurbo benefits from years of testing and development at the hands of Alpina. For increased power and throttle response, engineers have modified the intake and exhaust systems for optimal efficiency. To handle the 1.2 BAR (17.4 PSI) of boost pressure created by both turbochargers and a compression ratio of 9.4:1 Alpina uses high-strength MAHLE pistons and an enhanced cooling system with additional radiator. This results in a power output of 400 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 397 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 RPM – over 130 hp per liter! The 3.0-liter inline six provides a meaty powerband, as 294 lb-ft of torque is available from just 1,300 RPM all the way to 6,000 RPM. This allows the B3 S to effortlessly accelerate, sprinting to 62 mph in just 4.7 seconds, while a top speed of 186 mph is achieved by the coupe and convertible variants.
The enhanced performance of the B3 S BiTurbo does not come with consumption penalty; in fact it offers class-leading economy figures of 29.1 mpg and 224-225 g/km CO2. This comes thanks to engine mapping optimization and direct fuel injection.
Depending on the variant, power is sent to either the rear or all four wheels through the Alpina Switch-Tronic six-speed automatic transmission. In automatic mode, the transmission shifts smoothly for a quiet and relaxing ride. In manual however, it’s a different story. Gear changes take just a few hundred milliseconds without an interruption in power, and are controlled by shift buttons on the back of the steering wheel. Downshifts are seamless as the throttle is automatically synchronized in manual mode for composed driving.
The dynamic performance of the B3 S BiTurbo is showcased through the optimized aerodynamic modifications. The front features a new spoiler, which reduces lift at the front axle and redirects air to the enhanced cooling system. The rear of both the coupe and convertible features a new valance with an integrated diffuser and quad tailpipes. Completing the tasteful appearance are 19-inch Alpina BMW Classic lightweight alloy wheels. The 20-spoke wheels feature a unique hidden air valve mounted in the wheel center covered by a cap for an clean finish. Both the Alpina Classic and optional Dynamic wheels are shod in 245/40 ZR18 front and 265/40 ZR18 rear Michelin Pilot Sport 2 rubber.
Inside the B3 S is a premium interior with classic Alpina features. Comfortable sport seats with ample side support have been fitted with the Alpina Switch-Tronic leather sports steering wheel. Clean Alpina blue gauges feature a digital speed indicator and engine oil temperature.
The BMW Alpina B3 S BiTurbo will be available in Saloon, Touring, Coupe, and Convertible trims. Expect pricing to start upwards of £50,000 (+/- 75,000 USD).
BMW Alpina B3 S BiTurbo Gallery
BMW Alpina B3 S BiTurbo Specifications
Engine:
No. of Cylinders: Inline-6
Displacement: 3.0 liters (2979 cm³)
Bore x Stroke: 84 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
Maximum Horsepower: 400 at 6,000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 397 lb-ft. at 4,500 RPM
Engine Management: Siemens MSD 81
Maximum Boost Pressure: 1.2 BAR (17.4 PSI)
Transmission:
Gearbox: Sport automatic ZF 6HP19 TÜ with SWITCH-TRONIC
Gearbox ratios:
1st gear 4.17
2nd gear 2.34
3rd gear 1.52
4th gear 1.14
5th gear 0.87
6th gear 0.69
rev. 3.40
Axle drive ratio:1 :3.46
Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.7 seconds
Top Speed: 186 mph
Wheels and Tires:
Wheels: Alpina Classic 18” weight-optimized light alloy wheels, 20-spoke design with concealed tire valves behind lockable hub caps (optional at additional charge: 19” Alpina Classic and Dynamic wheels)
Front Wheels: 8×18 inches
Rear Wheels: 9×18 inches
Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 2
Front Wheels: 245/40 ZR18
Rear Wheels: 265/40 ZR18
AWD Front/Rear: 245/40 ZR18
Exterior:
-Front spoiler
-New rear bumper with integrated diffuser
-Two double-ended exhaust pipes
Interior:
-Leather sport seats
-Alpina Switch-Tronic leather sports steering wheel
-Blue ALPINA instrument display
-Headrests with Alpina logo
Source: BMW Alpina
