Verify the individual car
This page describes a model, engine or historical subject at archive level. Before using a specification for purchase, valuation or repair, confirm the chassis identity, production date, market version and installed parts of the individual car. Previous repairs and conversions can change what is present. Use the linked factory material for exact procedures and record measurements and observations rather than relying on appearance alone.
Character and place in the range
Hand-built perfection by Burkard Bovensiepen.
Extremely fast. The B6 3.5S delivered 254 hp and was faster than the regular M3.
Engine range
C1 / C2: Tuned small 6-cyls. 2.3L to 2.7L with 170-210hp.
B3 / B6: Larger displacement, B6 sometimes used the heavy M30 block.
Inspection and maintenance
Authenticity is everything. Many specific Alpina parts are unobtainable or extremely expensive.
Condition varies more than specification. Inspect structure first, verify the engine’s time-sensitive service and road-test the complete car before valuing trim or options.
Details worth knowing
Alpinas can be recognized by a bespoke chassis number stamped by Alpina, crossing out the original BMW number.
The famous Alpina B6 3.5 S used the heavy M30 engine block (the 'Big Six') for massive torque and power.