MODEL HISTORY

Alpina introduced a grand touring alternative of the B12 5.0 in 1990, based on the E31 8 Series’ 850i and the later 850Ci models. It was introduced a few months after the introduction of the 850i.

Notable mechanical changes include higher compression Mahle pistons fitted to the engine, along with larger intake valves, modified cylinder heads, a new exhaust system, and a modified Bosch Motronic ECU. These modifications allowed the engine to have a power output of 350 hp at 3,500 rpm and 347 lb⋅ft of torque at 4,000 prm. The engine’s red-line was increased to 6,400 rpm. The B12 5.0 was only available with a 4-speed ZF 4HP24E automatic transmission – modified electronically for improved gear changes. Other mechanical modifications consisted of new springs and Bilstein shock absorbers.

Exterior wise, the car was fitted with the Alpina 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and a front spoiler with special paint choices along with optional Alpina pinstriping. The interior was customised to customer specifications and contained a wide range of options with Alpina instrument cluster and badging being standard. The cars had special Vehicle Identification Numbers for easier recognition.

Performance figures include a claimed 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph. Only 97 cars were made before the B12 5.0 was succeeded by the B12 5.7 in 1994.

Equipment

Granite Silver Metallic, Black Leather, Alpina Classic Wheels by Ronal, Alpina Front Splitter, Alpina High Comp Mahle Pistons, Alpina Intake Valves, Alpina Modified Cylinder Heads, Alpina spec Bosch Motronic ECU, Alpina Exhaust, Bilstein Shocks, Sunroof, Climate Control, Electric Seats, BMW Bavaria Sound System, Alpina Steering Wheel, Electric Windows, Alpina Pin Stripe Deko kit

EXTERIOR

Alpina’s from the 90’s represent a statement in taste and no more so than the ever beautiful 8 series treated to the marque’s impeccable styling and engineering upgrades. Finished in a pristine coat of Granite Silver the depth is outstanding and resembles more of a liquid form. Complimented by the traditional front splitter and deko pinstripes this example commands a unique presence at the kerb and on the move.

90’s-vibe Pop up headlights are a fitting addition to this elegant cruiser, a styling cue normally associated with BMW’s Italian counterparts.

INTERIOR

As you open the large driver’s door and you step over the Alpina branded kick plates you are met with a finely contrast stitched wheel that falls to hand perfectly. This Alpina variant’s interior is covered in soft Black Nappa Leather that looks and smells factory fresh with sports seats remaining clean, supple and supportive. The rear bench feels especially soft and unworn suggesting they have seen very little use throughout the cars life.

The ergonomics of the drivers cockpit are perfectly designed, cocooning and supplying the driver directly with all instrumentation within an arms reach – and given the pillarless construction and optional sunroof this unique model feels very special indeed.

The 8 series continues to succeed as a design triumph and and is luxuriously laid out; oozing 90’s style and sophistication as it did sat in the showroom when new.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

In 1991, Alpina realised that 300 horses in something weighing 1790kg wasn’t going to cut it. The Buchloe branch performed their customary magic and went to work revising the internals, ECU and Exhaust to draw another 50hp from the 5 litre engine – much more like it!

Thanks to fresh distributor caps and rotor arms, as well as new air intake bellows and an major service, the car performs true to the GT designation with effortless torque and excellent road manners.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

Alpina’s wheels have become a cult icon of their own. The simple concave multi-spoke exposes a good size dish, remaining both elegant and purposeful, with a design so effective that little has changed over the past 40 years.

The 17 inch set on this example present in immaculate condition fresh from refurbishment and are shod in Pirelli rubber with ample tread at each corner.

The factory upgraded disc brakes and Bilstein suspension, both recently renewed, make all the difference to the B7 providing excellent damping and stopping power to help manage the considerable hike in power.

HISTORY FILE

First sold by Sytner of Nottingham in October of 1991, this fabulous Coupe would return to the supplying dealer for it’s running in service at 1,421 miles just two months later.

Returning to the main dealer on a further 11 occasions up until 2007, with the last service at 68,700 miles, the car was then sympathetically stored until recently where a light recommissioning has since taken place.

Over £11k has been spent on suspension, braking and fuel systems to ensure the car is ready to be used, admired and enjoyed by a new owner.

With the original stamped service book confirming the car’s early history, and a significant recent spend, this iconic Alpina is available to the market for the first time in 20 years.