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Alpina B3
Alpina B3
Alpina B3
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Alpina B3
Overview
ManufacturerAlpina
Production1987-present
Body and chassis
ClassCompact executive car (D)
RelatedBMW M3
BMW 3 Series

The Alpina B3 are a series of high performance executive cars manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Alpina, which is based on the BMW 3 Series of the car manufacturer BMW. As of 2021, it is produced as a sedan (four-door) and station wagon (touring). Up to and including the E90 series, two-door sedans, coupes and convertibles were also offered. With the exception of the convertible, every model was optionally available with all-wheel drive. The current diesel variant runs under the Alpina D3 Biturbo.

First generation (E30; 1987-1992)

[edit]
Alpina B3 (E30)
See also: BMW 3 Series (E30) § Alpina models

The Alpina B3 2.7[1] was produced from August 1987 to May 1992. A total of 257 units were manufactured in Buchloe, the number of units includes all variants. The basis for this was the BMW E30 325i (BMW E30) with the M20 engine. It had an in-line six-cylinder with a displacement of 2693 cm3 and had an output of 150 kW (204 hp) and a torque of 265 Nm. The machine had a larger displacement than the series, machined combustion chambers, a 268° camshaft (later 272°) and special cast pistons. Furthermore, a manifold made of VA steel and two metal catalytic converters were attached. The stated performance was achieved through these measures. The B3 accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and reached a top speed of 227 (224) km/h. The M20-C2/2 engine is the smallest engine variant that Alpina made during the Noelle era. Karl-Otto Noelle was an engine developer at Alpina from 1984 to 1993.

In addition, there was a version of the BMW E30 M3 with the designation B6 3.5 S and the 3.43-liter six-cylinder, which was significantly revised (Alpina engine type B10 / 5, 3430 cc, 187 kW / 254 PS, 320 Nm).[2][3]

Second generation (E36; 1993-1999)

[edit]
See also: BMW 3 Series (E36) § Alpina models
Alpina B3 3.2 Biturbo (E36)

Between 1993 and 1996, the BMW Alpina B3 3.0[4] of the E36 series was produced. It was the direct successor model of the Alpina B6-2.8 model of the E36 series, which was also based on the BMW 325i (but M50B25 without Vanos model until the BMW factory holidays in August 1992 - then with VANOS). In the spring of 1996, the B3 3.2 followed as an upgrade.[4] The body base for the B3 3.0 was a 325i (BMW E36) and a 328i for the B3 3.2. In both models, however, Alpina used the more robust M50 (B25TÜ) cast iron engine, as the M52 engine of the 328i was not suitable for expanding the displacement. Both vehicle variants were available as a coupé (two-door) and sedan (four-door), cabriolet (convertible) and station wagon (touring).

Third generation (E46; 1999-2006)

[edit]
See also: BMW 3 Series (E46) § Alpina models, and Alpina B3 S (E46)
Alpina B3 (E46)

In 1999, the new BMW Alpina B3 3.3 of the E46 series was introduced. The year before, a prototype with the 3.2-liter engine of the B3 3.2 had been presented at the Birmingham Auto Show. The production model was formally presented at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show and the station wagon at the 2000 Birmingham Auto Show.[5] The body base was initially provided by the 328i[6] (M52TÜ) and then later by the 330i[6] (M54). The following model variants were available: sedan, coupé, cabriolet (convertible) and station wagon (touring). From 2001, the B3 was also offered in an all-wheel drive variant, the premiere of which took place at the Geneva Motor Show of the same year.[5] From 2002, the Alpina B3 S with 224 kW maximum power and 362 Nm maximum torque was produced. Its premiere took place at the Paris Motor Show in 2002.[7] For both E46-B3 models, Alpina used the E36-US-M3 gray cast iron engine block (S52B32/US) as the basis and modified it, since neither the M52TÜ nor the M54 engine block were suitable for it.

Fourth generation (E9x; 2007-2012)

[edit]
Main article: Alpina B3 (E90)
Alpina B3 (E90)

The second Alpina B3 Biturbo was produced from 2007 to 2012. The formal premiere took place at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. With the coupé, it was at the Goodwood Festival of Speed the following Summer and with the convertible at the IAA 2007. The station wagon was only available with the facelift in October 2008.[8] It is based on the BMW E9x 335i, has a six-cylinder engine with 3.0 L displacement and twin-turbo charging. The engine with a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) with 500 Nm accelerates the B3 from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. According to the factory, the top speed is 285 km/h. The B3 Biturbo was available as a sedan (E90), station wagon (Touring, E91), cabriolet (convertible, E93) and coupé (E92), from 2008 also optionally with all-wheel drive (except convertible). Alpina modified the exterior with front and rear spoilers and a double-flow, double-sided exhaust system (a total of four tailpipes). For the 2010 model year, the B3S Biturbo was presented at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.[9] The maximum power increased by 29 kW (40 PS) to 294 kW (400 PS) and the torque increased to 540 Nm. The B3S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The maximum speed is 300 km/h according to the factory. Production of the E90 and E91 (saloon and estate) ended in 2011, while E92/E93 (coupé/convertible) production continued until 2013.[9]

Fifth generation (F30; 2013-2019)

[edit]
Main article: Alpina B3 (F30)
Alpina B3 Biturbo (F30)

The formal premiere of the sedan F30[10] and the station wagon F31[11] at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show took place in the third Alpina B3 Biturbo. It was produced between March 2013 and May 2019. It was based on the BMW F30/F31 335i until 2017,[12] has an in-line six-cylinder engine with 3.0 L displacement and bi-turbocharging. The engine with a maximum output of 301 kW (410 hp) with a maximum torque of 600 Nm accelerates the B3 from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds. According to the factory, the maximum speed is 305 km/h. The B3 Biturbo are available as a sedan or station wagon (touring), both of which could be combined with all-wheel drive (xDrive).

Alpina modified the exterior with front and rear spoilers and a four-pipe exhaust system. The facelift of the F30/F31 was also incorporated into the design of the Alpina B3 Biturbo in 2015.[11] In March 2017, Alpina revised the drive of the B3 and took the BMW F30/F31 340i as the basis. From now on, this has a maximum output of 324 kW (440 hp). Production ended in autumn 2018 for the sedan and in summer 2019 for the station wagon.[12]

Sixth generation (G20; 2020-present)

[edit]
Alpina B3 Touring (G21) Rear

Main article: BMW 3 Series (G20)§Alpina B3 and D3

The Alpina B3 based on the BMW G21 station wagon (Touring) was presented at the 68th International Motor Show Germany (IAA) in September 2019 in Frankfurt. It is powered by a three-liter in-line six-cylinder gasoline engine with an installed output of 340 kW (462 hp) at 5000–7000 rpm. The maximum torque of the motor is 700 Nm at 3000 rpm.[13]

At the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2019, Alpina presented the B3 based on the BMW G20 sedan.[14]

With the G20 BMW 3 Series facelift debuting in 2022, Alpina's take on the B3 was also revealed.[15] Available in either B3 sedan or D3 S Touring models, both get the all-important Alpina styling cues along with a substantial power bump over its donor cars.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Alpina B3

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The is a high-performance variant of the , produced by the German automaker since , renowned for its blend of refined grand touring capabilities, enhanced powertrains, and subtle luxury modifications that distinguish it from BMW's more track-focused M3 models. The B3 lineage began with the E30-based model in , featuring a 2.7-liter inline-six engine. This was followed by the E36-based model in April 1993, featuring a 3.0-liter inline-six engine tuned to 250 horsepower and available in sedan and body styles until December 1995, with production totaling 741 units. The E46 generation's B3 3.3, launched in March 1999, utilized a 3.3-liter inline-six delivering 280 horsepower, offered in saloon, touring, , , and all-wheel-drive variants until 2006, emphasizing improved acceleration (0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds for the manual saloon) and top speeds exceeding 265 km/h. Subsequent iterations advanced the B3's performance with turbocharging; the E90/E91/E92/E93-based B3 Bi-Turbo, launched in March 2007, employed a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six producing 360 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 285 km/h across sedan, coupe, convertible, and touring bodies, before evolving into the more potent B3 S Bi-Turbo in 2010 with 400 horsepower and 540 Nm. The F30/F31 generation, introduced at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, featured a 3.0-liter bi-turbo inline-six initially rated at 410 horsepower and 600 Nm, later upgraded in the B3 S to 440 horsepower, with production running from March 2013 to February 2017 for the base model and extending to 2018 for the S variant, prioritizing all-wheel-drive options and 0-100 km/h times as low as 4.3 seconds. The current G20/G21-based B3, debuting in 2019, features a 3.0-liter inline-six () outputting 495 horsepower and 730 Nm of in its standard form, with standard all-wheel drive and figures including 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds for the saloon (as of 2025) and a top speed of 305 km/h, available in saloon and touring configurations with advanced digital connectivity and aerodynamic enhancements. A higher- B3 GT variant, introduced for the 2025 model year, increases output to 529 horsepower and 730 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds for the saloon. Throughout its history, the B3 has been celebrated for its balanced tuning, handcrafted with -specific blue instrumentation and accents, and limited production runs that underscore its exclusivity as a sophisticated alternative in the compact executive segment.

Overview

Model Description

The Alpina B3 is a high-performance developed and produced by the German manufacturer , serving as a tuned variant of the platform since its introduction in 1987. As a automaker, Alpina refines BMW's core engineering to deliver enhanced driving dynamics, luxury, and exclusivity, positioning the B3 as a sophisticated alternative within the compact executive segment. The model has evolved alongside the chassis codes, from the E30 to the current G20/G21 generations, maintaining its focus on balanced performance and refined usability. The B3 has been offered primarily in sedan (saloon) and (touring) body styles, reflecting the practicality of the underlying platform, while earlier generations also included two-door and variants for broader appeal. Across its lineup, the B3 emphasizes Alpina's expertise in upgrading BMW's inline-six engines, achieving greater power and smoother refinement through meticulous tuning and component enhancements. Production has spanned over 35 years, characterized by Alpina's limited-series approach, with early variants produced in limited numbers to ensure exclusivity and handcrafted quality. Shared traits among B3 models include optional all-wheel drive systems in later generations for improved traction and handling, signature multi-pipe exhaust configurations that contribute to both performance and a distinctive , and bespoke interior trims featuring Alpina-specific materials and instrumentation for a premium, personalized cabin experience. These elements underscore the B3's role as a refined , blending high-end engineering with everyday versatility.

Positioning and Naming

The Alpina B3 serves as the entry-level performance model within Alpina's portfolio, based on the and positioned below higher-output variants such as the B4 and B5, while offering enhanced capabilities over the standard through refined tuning and engineering upgrades. This placement establishes the B3 as an accessible gateway to Alpina's exclusive lineup, targeting enthusiasts seeking balanced performance without venturing into the more potent models derived from larger platforms. The naming convention for the B3 originates from Alpina's tradition of denoting tuned models with a "B" prefix, standing for "" (petrol) to signify gasoline-powered vehicles, followed by the corresponding BMW series number—thus, B3 indicates modifications to the 3 Series. Suffixes such as "Biturbo" or "S" are appended to highlight specific engine configurations or performance enhancements, like twin-turbocharging or sport-oriented tuning, allowing for clear differentiation across variants. Visual identifiers distinguish the B3 from both standard BMW models and the more aggressive BMW M variants, featuring the signature blue-and-green script badging, characteristic alloy wheels, and subtle aerodynamic enhancements including front splitters and rear diffusers that emphasize elegance over overt sportiness. In the market, the B3 is positioned as a prioritizing comfort, refinement, and understated luxury, appealing to drivers who value long-distance usability and sophisticated dynamics rather than track-focused intensity. Introduced in 1987 with the first generation based on the E30 platform, the B3 emerged as a response to growing demand for refined power in the compact executive segment during the late 1980s, filling a niche for premium, modified sedans and coupes that blended BMW's engineering with Alpina's bespoke enhancements. This historical context underscores its role as a more civilized alternative to the , offering superior torque and composure for everyday refinement.

Generations

First generation (E30; 1987–1992)

The first generation Alpina B3, introduced in 1987 and produced through 1992, marked the model's debut as a performance-oriented variant of the E30 3 Series. Built in limited numbers at Alpina's facility in , , a total of 257 units were manufactured across sedan, , convertible, and touring body styles, emphasizing exclusivity and handcrafted refinement. This generation established Alpina's tuning philosophy by enhancing the base 325i platform with subtle yet effective modifications focused on balanced performance and drivability. At the heart of the B3 was a 2.7-liter naturally aspirated inline-six , coded M20-C2/2, featuring a displacement of 2693 cm³ derived from the M20B25 block with Alpina-specific internals including a longer stroke crankshaft and optimized . The delivered 150 kW (204 hp) at 6000 rpm and 265 Nm of torque at 4800 rpm, providing smooth power delivery suitable for both spirited driving and grand touring. Paired exclusively with a five-speed and , the offered precise control and engaging dynamics characteristic of the E30 . Performance metrics underscored the B3's capabilities, with from 0 to 100 km/h achieved in 7.1 seconds and a governed top speed of 227 km/h, enabling confident highway cruising while maintaining the E30's agile handling. Unique engineering touches included a for improved durability and flow, dual catalytic converters to ensure emissions compliance in regulated markets, and an -tuned suspension system incorporating Bilstein dampers for enhanced cornering poise and ride comfort without sacrificing the base model's versatility. These elements laid the groundwork for subsequent B3 generations' evolution in refinement and performance balance.

Second generation (E36; 1993–1999)

The second generation of the , produced from 1993 to 1999, was based on the E36 3 Series platform, drawing from the 325i and later 328i models to offer enhanced . This iteration built on the foundational modifications established in the prior E30-based model by increasing displacement and refining output for improved dynamics. Available in sedan, , cabriolet, and touring body styles, it catered to a broader range of preferences while maintaining across all variants. A total of 741 B3 3.0 units were produced from 1993 to 1996, followed by 342 B3 3.2 units from 1996 to 1999. The initial B3 3.0 variant, offered from 1993 to 1996, featured a 3.0-liter inline-six engine based on the unit, producing 184 kW (250 PS) at 5,700 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm through optimizations like an enhanced manifold and revised . In 1996, introduced the upgraded B3 3.2, enlarging displacement to 3.2 liters while retaining the inline-six configuration, yielding 195 kW (265 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 330 Nm at 4,400 rpm for stronger mid-range pull and acceleration. Both engines emphasized naturally aspirated efficiency, with the B3 3.2 achieving 0-100 km/h in approximately 5.9 seconds. Power was delivered via a standard five-speed with revised gear ratios optimized for quicker acceleration, or an optional four-speed with Alpina's Switch-Tronic for paddle-shift convenience. Unique to this generation were features like the switchable sports , which allowed drivers to toggle between quieter road use and a more aggressive note under load, alongside subtle aerodynamic tweaks and stiffened suspension components for balanced handling. These elements distinguished the B3 as a refined , blending everyday usability with superior straight-line performance.

Third generation (E46; 1999–2006)

The third generation Alpina B3, produced from 1999 to 2006, was based on the BMW 3 Series E46 chassis, utilizing the 328i and 330i as donor models for its sedan, coupe, convertible, and touring body styles. Approximately 300 B3 3.3 units and 500 B3 S units were built. This iteration marked a significant evolution for Alpina, emphasizing refined performance and versatility while maintaining the brand's signature grand touring character. The standard B3 3.3 featured a naturally aspirated 3.3-liter inline-six engine (E4/4 designation) with double VANOS variable valve timing, producing 206 kW (280 PS) at 6200 rpm and 335 Nm of torque at 4800 rpm. Power was delivered through a standard six-speed Getrag manual transmission or an optional five-speed Switch-Tronic automatic, contributing to composed highway dynamics and agile handling. In March 2001, at the Geneva Motor Show, introduced the B3 3.3 Allrad, incorporating BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability, particularly in sedan and touring variants; this option continued production even after the rear-wheel-drive model's update. The all-wheel-drive setup distributed power variably between the axles, improving wet-weather performance without compromising the rear-biased feel. The B3 S variant, debuted at the 2002 , elevated the model's sportiness with a hand-built 3.4-liter inline-six (E5/1) derived from the cast-iron block of the U.S.-spec E36 M3 S52 engine, bored and stroked for increased displacement while retaining double . It generated 224 kW (305 PS) at 6300 rpm and 362 Nm at 4800 rpm, paired with the same six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. Available across all body styles, the B3 S achieved 0–100 km/h acceleration in 5.4 seconds with the manual and a top speed of 270 km/h (electronically limited), underscoring its position as a more potent alternative to the M3. This generation's focus on all-wheel-drive integration and power upgrades laid groundwork for advanced drivetrains in subsequent models.

Fourth generation (E90/E91/E92/E93; 2007–2013)

The fourth generation of the Alpina B3 marked a significant shift to twin-turbocharged power, departing from the naturally aspirated engines of previous models and delivering substantially higher torque for improved low-end responsiveness. Introduced in 2007, production of the sedan (E90) and touring (E91) variants ran until 2012, while the coupe (E92) and cabriolet (E93) continued until 2013. This generation was based on the BMW 3 Series E90 platform and offered in multiple body styles, with all-wheel drive (xDrive, branded as Allrad by Alpina) becoming available from 2008 onward for the sedan, touring, and coupe, though the cabriolet remained rear-wheel drive only. The B3 featured a modified version of BMW's 3.0-liter inline-six N54 with twin turbochargers, enlarged intercoolers, and reinforced internals including Mahle pistons, producing 265 kW (360 hp) at 5,500–6,000 rpm and 500 Nm of at 3,800–5,000 rpm. A higher-output B3 S variant, introduced in 2010, boosted output to 294 kW (400 hp) at 6,000 rpm and 540 Nm at 4,500 rpm through revised turbo mapping, pistons, and exhaust components for smoother power delivery and reduced emissions. Power was sent to the wheels via a six-speed ZF automatic transmission with Switch-Tronic paddle shifters and Alpina-tuned software for quicker shifts. Performance emphasized refined acceleration and high-speed stability, with the standard B3 achieving 0–100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 285 km/h (electronically limited), while the B3 S improved to 4.7 seconds and 300 km/h. The cabriolet variant was slightly slower at 5.0 seconds to 100 km/h due to added weight. Unique styling elements included quad exhaust tailpipes integrated into a revised rear diffuser for enhanced airflow and a distinctive auditory note, along with aerodynamic front and rear spoilers. A 2010 facelift aligned with BMW's Life Cycle Impulse updates, incorporating a revised front with adaptive LED headlights, updated kidney grilles, and modified taillights for improved and efficiency; the interior received enhanced materials and iDrive refinements. This update also introduced the B3 S across body styles, emphasizing the model's blend of grand touring comfort and dynamics.

Fifth generation (F30/F31; 2013–2019)

The fifth generation of the Alpina B3 was introduced in March 2013, building on the turbocharged legacy of the preceding E90/E91 generation by offering enhanced power and efficiency in sedan and body styles based on the BMW F30 and F31 platforms, respectively. Production of the sedan ran from 2013 to May 2018, while the touring variant continued until May 2019, aligning with the end of BMW's F31 production. All-wheel drive (xDrive) was available as an option on both body styles, providing improved traction without compromising the model's grand touring character. The B3 utilized a 3.0-liter inline-six biturbo , initially derived from BMW's N55 unit, delivering 301 kW (410 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. In March 2017, following BMW's 2015 facelift of the F30/F31, launched the updated B3 S variant with a revised B58-based producing 324 kW (440 PS) and 660 Nm, incorporating refinements like improved turbocharging and intercooling for better response and efficiency. Both versions featured high-precision direct injection, , and a reinforced to handle the increased outputs. Power was routed through a ZF 8-speed with Alpina's SWITCH-TRONIC paddle , enabling quick shifts and a sporty mode that emphasized the engine's broad band from 3,000 rpm. The transmission's adaptive logic optimized gear selection for both performance and fuel economy, contributing to combined consumption figures around 8.5–9.1 L/100 km depending on the variant. Performance benchmarks highlighted the B3's balance, with the xDrive-equipped B3 S sedan accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and reaching a top speed of 305 km/h when fitted with the optional limiter-delete package. Rear-wheel-drive models were slightly slower at 4.3 seconds to 100 km/h, but all variants offered electronically limited top speeds exceeding 300 km/h for superior capability. Braking was enhanced by standard 370 mm front ventilated discs with four-piston , providing composed stops from high speeds. Distinctive features included a stainless-steel with components and four tailpipes in a double-oval for a refined yet aggressive sound profile, complemented by an adaptive suspension with electronically adjustable dampers that balanced ride comfort and handling. The 2015 facelift introduced updated LED headlights, revised front kidney grilles, and an enhanced iDrive with a larger display, maintaining the B3's understated luxury while improving visibility and connectivity. Exterior styling featured Alpina's signature 20-inch forged wheels, subtle aerodynamic tweaks like a rear spoiler, and bespoke badging to differentiate it from standard models.

Sixth generation (G20/G21; 2020–present)

The sixth-generation Alpina B3, based on the BMW 3 Series G20 sedan and G21 touring platforms, was unveiled at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show and entered production in 2020. This iteration marks the pinnacle of the B3's power evolution, with its tuned 3.0-liter inline-six biturbo engine delivering enhanced performance over prior generations while maintaining Alpina's emphasis on balanced grand touring dynamics. Available exclusively with all-wheel drive (xDrive) and an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, the B3 offers sedan and touring body styles, positioning it as a refined alternative to more track-focused rivals. The B3 is powered by a modified version of BMW's B58 engine, a 2,993 cc inline-six with twin turbochargers, producing 340 kW (462 PS; 455 hp) at 5,000–7,000 rpm and 700 Nm of from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm in its initial form. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 3.6 seconds for the sedan and 3.7 seconds for the touring, with electronically limited top speeds of 303 km/h and 300 km/h, respectively. A diesel variant, the D3 S, is offered solely on the G21 touring platform, featuring a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assistance via a 48-volt system, outputting 261 kW (355 PS) and 730 Nm for improved efficiency and responsiveness. In 2022, the B3 received a facelift aligned with the update, featuring a revised kidney grille, updated LED headlights, and a fully digital instrument cluster with enhanced driver aids such as and lane-keeping assist. Engine output increased to 364 kW (495 PS) and 730 Nm, though acceleration figures remained consistent at 3.6 seconds for the sedan, reflecting optimized tuning for smoother delivery rather than raw speed gains; top speeds rose slightly to 305 km/h for the sedan. The features quad tailpipes integrated into a diffuser, contributing to a distinctive low-end growl, while 19-inch or optional 20-inch Alpina Classic wheels shod P Zero tires for composed handling. Fuel economy under WLTP testing stands at 10.1 l/100 km combined for the petrol variants, with CO2 emissions of 229 g/km. The 2024 introduced the high-performance B3 GT variant for both sedan and touring bodies, boosting output to 389 kW (529 PS) at 6,250–6,500 rpm while retaining the 730 Nm torque plateau. This enables 0–100 km/h times of 3.4 seconds for the GT sedan and 3.5 seconds for the GT touring, with top speeds of 308 km/h and 305 km/h, respectively. Suspension revisions include adaptive dampers tuned for greater agility, paired with lightweight 20-inch forged wheels, and the interior gains Alcantara-trimmed sport seats and a . These updates solidify the B3's role as a versatile executive performer, blending acceleration with everyday usability.

Reception and Legacy

Market Reception

The Alpina B3 has achieved modest commercial success as a niche high-performance variant of the , with cumulative production across all generations estimated in the low thousands due to its limited-series manufacturing approach, which emphasizes exclusivity and customization. For instance, the first-generation E30 model produced 257 units between 1987 and 1992, while the second-generation E36 B3 3.0 accounted for 741 examples from 1993 to 1995. Sales peaked in the , particularly in , where annual deliveries for the B3 and related D3 models exceeded 500 units combined in 2015, driven by expanded market access and demand for all-wheel-drive options. This limited output has bolstered the model's desirability among enthusiasts, contrasting with higher-volume production. Critical reception for the B3 has been largely positive, with reviewers frequently commending its ability to deliver M3-level performance while offering superior ride comfort and refinement for daily use. The F30-generation model, for example, earned a 4.5-out-of-5 rating from Autocar in 2020 for its exceptional speed, handling, and "intrinsic magic" in balancing sportiness with usability. Similarly, Auto Bild's 2020 test of the B3 Touring highlighted its versatility for both everyday driving and track use, praising the 462-hp output and 700 Nm of torque as ideal for a "multi-purpose" . Early generations faced some criticism for premium pricing over standard models, which positioned the B3 as a more expensive alternative in the late 1980s and 1990s, though this has been offset by its reputation for understated elegance. Market trends show the B3 performing strongly in , its primary region, where 's overall sales fluctuated between 300 and 777 units annually from 2000 to 2017, with the B3 contributing significantly as a flagship 3 Series derivative. In , particularly , the model has enjoyed steady demand since the , bolstered by show appearances like the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, where it underscored 's long-standing presence in the market. U.S. availability has remained limited, with the G20 generation still not offered in the market as of 2025, despite BMW's 2022 acquisition of potentially enabling future imports. Post-2000s, growing preference for xDrive all-wheel-drive variants has further supported sales, aligning with broader shifts toward versatile performance sedans and wagons in premium segments. The E30-based B3, introduced in 1987, marked Alpina's entry into tuned 3 Series production and set the tone for its grand touring ethos. In the 2020s, the G20 iteration received acclaim for optimizing performance with efficiency, such as the B3 GT's 529-hp inline-six, which reviewers noted as a sophisticated blending power and real-world . The model's legacy has enhanced Alpina's reputation for crafting exclusive, driver-focused vehicles, with used B3 examples often retaining a premium in the over comparable models due to their rarity and craftsmanship, with some analyses showing around 4% higher values compared to M3 equivalents as of 2023. This premium in the , evident in E36 and F30 examples fetching above standard pricing, underscores the B3's enduring appeal as a refined counterpart to more aggressive M-division offerings. BMW's full acquisition of in 2022 has integrated the brand more closely, potentially influencing future production and market expansion while preserving its independent character until 2026.

Comparison to BMW M3

The Alpina B3 and have shared a storied rivalry since the B3's introduction in 1987, positioning the former as a refined "gentleman's express" emphasizing grand touring poise and the latter as a raw "driver's car" optimized for track aggression. This philosophical divide persists across generations, with the B3 favoring usability and subtlety over the 's unfiltered intensity, though both draw from the platform for their foundations. In terms of power and tuning, the B3 delivers comparable or superior figures, such as 700 Nm in the generation compared to the M3 Competition's 650 Nm, enabling strong low-end pull with a smoother, more progressive delivery through Alpina's bespoke engine mapping and . This contrasts with the M3's sharper, more immediate response, which prioritizes explosive for spirited driving but can feel less refined in everyday scenarios. benchmarks reflect this balance, with both achieving 0-100 km/h in around 3.8 seconds for their Competition and AWD variants, though the B3's advantage aids in real-world usability. The engine philosophy underscores their divergence: both employ BMW's S58 inline-six, but refines it with proprietary turbochargers, an optimized , and ECU remapping to enhance smoothness and acoustic subtlety, fostering a more sophisticated character suited to long-distance cruising. The M3, conversely, tunes the same unit for maximum raw output and a more visceral soundtrack, amplifying its performance focus without 's emphasis on everyday refinement. Handling and ride quality further highlight their intents, as the B3 employs a softer suspension setup with adaptive dampers tuned for grand touring comfort, absorbing imperfections while maintaining composed dynamics on winding roads. In opposition, the M3 adopts a stiffer, track-oriented with lightweight carbon-fiber components and aggressive anti-roll bars, delivering superior grip and feedback for circuit use but at the expense of daily compliance. This setup contributes to the M3's edge in lap times, where it typically outperforms the B3 despite the latter's straight-line advantages in base model matchups. Pricing positions the B3 as a premium alternative to the M3, with similar starting prices in markets like (e.g., $181,900 for B3 GT vs. $181,500 for M3 Competition as of 2024) but enhanced by handcrafted assembly and limited availability, with annual production under 500 units for recent models versus thousands of M3s produced globally each year. This scarcity enhances the B3's allure as a alternative, appealing to buyers seeking understated luxury over the M3's broader accessibility.

References

  1. https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/product-world/model-history/
  2. https://www.alpina-archive.com/?page_id=57
  3. https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/product-world/model-history/bmw-3-series/bmw-3-series-e46/
  4. https://www.alpina-archive.com/?page_id=164
  5. https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/product-world/model-history/bmw-3-series/bmw-3-series-e90919293/
  6. https://www.alpina-archive.com/?page_id=167
  7. https://www.alpina-archive.com/?page_id=8082
  8. https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/product-world/model-history/bmw-3-series/bmw-3-series-f3031/
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  14. https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/alpina/philosophy/
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  16. https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/alpina/b3-2020
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  19. https://en.wheelz.me/the-alpina-b3-2-7-a-symphony-of-e30-engineering/
  20. https://zeperfs.com/en/fiche1646-alpina-b3-2-7.htm
  21. https://alpina.drive.place/b3/e30/group_coupe/354421
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  23. https://www.e30zone.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=41104
  24. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/model/alpina/3-series_e36_alpina.html
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  27. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1994/287180/alpina_b3_3_0.html
  28. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1997/287300/alpina_b3_3_2.html
  29. https://fastestlaps.com/models/alpina-b3-3-2-coupe
  30. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1996/287270/alpina_b3_3_2_coupe.html
  31. https://fastestlaps.com/models/alpina-b3-3-0-coupe
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  39. https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/alpina/b3-2007-2013
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  42. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a33381545/2020-alpina-b3-drive/
  43. https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/models/d3-s/highlights/
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  50. https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/alpina-europe-sales-figures/
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