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2009 Alpina B3 Bi-Turbo

For over thirty years now, ALPINA have been creating exclusive automobiles based on the BMW 3 Series, automobiles that aim to fulfill only the very highest demands. In the beginning of this continuing success story spanning over 6,000 units was the legendary 1978 BMW ALPINA B6 2.8 – revolutionary in its day due to its six cylinder engine.

This success story is continued in a most prominent fashion by the BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo. Enjoyment, great attention to detail and a unique driving experience come together, creating a synergy of elegance and driving dynamics.

Powertrain

The straight-six cylinder petrol powerplant manages to accommodate torque and power in a compact, nimble and efficient package like no other car in its segment.

400Nm (294lb-ft) of torque from 1300rpm onwards, peaking between 3800rpm and 5000rpm at 500Nm (368lb-ft), provide plenty of punch and elasticity, rocket-like launching the B3 Bi-Turbo from standstill if required, or sovereignly navigating traffic at the touch of your foot.

The omnipresence of Its sporty character means the engine revs freely, accompanied by a wonderful soundtrack, to a maximum 7000rpm, offering up 360hp (265kW) along the way between 5500rpm – 6000rpm.

The use of extremely durable MAHLE pistons allows for a maximum boost of 1.1 bar with 9.4:1 compression. The result, a peak specific output of 121hp (89kW) per litre and a maximum average pressure of 21 bar.

BMW ALPINA automobiles have always been known for their excellent blend of fuel economy and performance. The allure of the B3 Bi-Turbo is found in its V8-like performance coupled with the advantages of a much lighter and noticeably thriftier 3.0 litre straight-six.

A glance at the technical data confirms that the B3 Bi-Turbo ist best-in-class, leading its segment in terms of performance, consumption and CO2 emissions!

Design

The intense driving experience and the immediate bonding with the B3 Bi-Turbo are markedly influenced by fine materials and superior ergonomics. The standard leather interior features comfortable sport seats with excellent lateral support and electric adjustment.

The SWITCH-TRONIC sports leather steering wheel covered in finest ALPINA LAVALINA leather is a joy to touch and affords a clear view of the ALPINA typical blue instruments with their red pointers. As demanded by any enthusiastic driver, the provision of essential oil temperature information is provided by an analog instrument located below the rev counter.

Finely honed front and rear spoilers reduce aerodynamic lift, especially approaching top speed, increasing straight-line stability and helping guarantee true driving safety, not just a feeling of safety.

As tradition holds, each automobile is fitted with an ALPINA plaque identifying its unique production number.

Story by Alpina

In Detail

type Series Production Car
built at Buchloe, Germany
engine Inline-6
position Front, Longitudinal
displacement 2979 cc / 181.79 in³
bore 84 mm / 3.3 in
stroke 89.6 mm / 3.5 in
power 265 kw / 355.4 bhp @ 5500 rpm
specific output 119.3 bhp per litre
bhp/weight 226.37 bhp per tonne
torque 500 nm / 368.8 ft lbs @ 3800 rpm
body / frame Unitary Steel Monocoque
driven wheels RWD
wheel type Alpina Classic 18
front tires 245/40 ZR18
rear tires 265/40 ZR18
front wheels F 45.7 x 20.3 cm / 18 x 8 in
rear wheels R 45.7 x 22.9 cm / 18 x 9 in
curb weight 1570 kg / 3462 lbs
wheelbase 2760 mm / 108.7 in
front track 1503 mm / 59.2 in
rear track 1512 mm / 59.5 in
length 4545 mm / 178.9 in
width 1817 mm / 71.5 in
height 1422 mm / 56.0 in
transmission ZF 6HP19 6-Speed Automatic
gear ratios 4.17:1, 2.34:1, 1.52:1, 1.14:1, 0.87:1, 0.69:1
top speed ~285 kph / 176.98 mph
0 – 100 kph ~4.8 seconds
urban fuel econ eu 14.1 L/100 km or 16.68 mpg-us
extra urban fuel econ eu 7.3 L/100 km or 32.22 mpg-us
combined fuel econ eu 9.8 L/100 km or 24.00 mpg-us
emission 234 g/km
fuel capacity 63 litres or 16.63 gal.