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      03-06-2012, 08:04 PM   #1
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Lightbulb 2012 Geneva: Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Debuts Along with B3 GT3 and Uprated B5

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2012 Geneva: Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Debuts Along with B3 GT3 and Uprated B5
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Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo

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THE BMW ALPINA B6 BITURBO – CABRIO INDULGENCE AND COUPE CULTURE

DRIVE – FIRST CLASS PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMY


For ALPINA, a technology driven company, standstill is a foreign word. Since the introduction of the B7 Bi-Turbo, the engineers from Buchloe, Germany, have been continuously working on the details of the turbo charging and intercooler system.

Consequently, the all-aluminium V8 power plant now produces 540hp (397kW) at a moderate 5200 to 6250rpm, with a maximum torque of 730Nm from 2800 to 5000rpm. Two turbo-chargers configured in parallel, each feeding one of the two cylinder banks, with specially developed large diameter exhaust-turbines allow this engine configura- tion to provide both exceptional power output and an abundance of torque over an especially broad rpm range while maintaining excellent throttle response at low rpm.
The comprehensive high-performance cooling system comprises an indirect inter-cooling system (air-to-water/water-to-air) with short intake tracts and increased inter-cooler flow. The systems excellent thermodynamic efficiency is guaranteed by a large-volume low-temperature inter-cooler radiator, two water-to-air inter-coolers placed close to the engine and additional separate motor oil and water coolers.

High-performance MAHLE pistons are designed specifically to deal with temperatures and pressures associated with up to 1.2 bar charging and the engine’s 9.2:1 nominal compression ratio. Altogether, this results in an impressive specific output of 123hp (90kW) per litre and a mean total compression of 20.1 bar.

Direct injection and Double-VANOS contribute to the B6 Bi-Turbo’s class-leading consumption and emission figures: 10.5l/100km (Convertible: 10.6l/100km) and 244g/km CO2 (Convertible: 247 g/km) (Combined cycle, measured according to ECE Norm).

TRANSMISSION – EIGHT-SPEED ALL-ROUNDER

Adapted and tested in co-operation with ZF, the advanced SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission sets benchmarks. With ALPINA’s philosophy the guiding credo, engineers have spent thousands of development and test hours ensuring that no other performance automatic transmission comes close to providing this level of both comfort and performance.

The blend of eight speeds and plenty of torque makes for unparalleled comfortable gear changes with no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power – only the accom- panying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. 730Nm of torque means the B6 Bi-Turbo excels at cruising along at speed in a high gear at minimum rpm, benefiting both consumption and comfort.

Using the Sport (S) Shift Mode a completely different character emerges: the transmission is crisp and unmistakably immediate. The innovative single-cylinder fade-out (known as 'Einzelzylinderausblendung‘ in German) enables super quick up-shifts which take just milliseconds. Depending on the load on the transmission, the injection of fuel into a given cylinder is interrupted for a fraction of a second, creating the required reduction in torque that the automatic transmission needs for the up-shift. The advantages versus the typical method of timing retardation are noticeably quicker shifts, improved thermo-dynamic efficiency due to reduced exhaust temperatures and lower fuel consumption. Each up-shift is accompanied by a deep back-pressure burble.

The SWITCH-TRONIC buttons, for use in the Manual (M) Shift Mode, are ergonomically and unobtrusively positioned on the back of the steering wheel, and allow the driver to take complete control of the transmission. The system allows for multi-simultaneous down-shifts in milliseconds, hereby the transmission will skip several gears depending on engine loads and rpm. In this manner the 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC reveals itself as extremely multi-faceted, providing the right shift characteristic for any and all situations.

The Automatic Up-Shift function means that the transmission will up-shift into a higher gear once a certain rpm threshold has been passed in the current gear. In certain driving situations this may not be desired, for example during especially sporty driving or for example when encountering multiple tight hair-pin corners. The simultaneous selection of either Sport, Sport+ or DSC OFF Mode using the Drive Performance Control button and the selection of the M Shift Mode (transmission) will deactivate the automatic up- shift function. The transmission will hold the selected gear up to maximum rpm’s (electronically limited) and will not automatically up-shift into a higher gear.

The intelligent coupling of state-of-the-art engine and transmission technologies give the B6 Bi-Turbo stunning performance figures: 0-100km/h in 4.3s (Convertible: 4.4s), and a top speed of 320km/h (Convertible: 317km/h).

EXHAUST SYSTEM – PURE-BRED, SONOROUS, LIGHTWEIGHT

For the first time, ALPINA has collaborated with Akrapovič on the development of a lightweight exhaust system made from high-strength titanium. Faithful to the guiding principle of ‘form follows function’, the entire system is laudable not only for its acoustics and appearance, but also for its technical refinements. In addition to a weight- saving of 45% compared to the conventional use of stainless steel, the exhaust system also boasts impressive technical details. The engineers from ALPINA and Akrapovič have achieved quite a feat, managing to retain a diameter of 2 x 70mm throughout the entire length of the exhaust system, despite the tricky ‘packaging’. In conjunction with further design refinements, exhaust back-pressure is reduced to an absolute minimum.

In interaction with the powerful engine, the exhaust system generates a backdrop of deep, sonorous eight-cylinder sound – powerful, sporty, but never obtrusive, due to intelligent, controllable exhaust valves. These offer the driver a special degree of influence over the sound experience, and can be controlled using the Drive Performance Control. In Comfort+ and Comfort Mode the valves are closed, opening at 3000rpm, regardless of the selected gear. In 1st and 2nd gear decisive use of the accelerator will cause the valves to open (at approx. 60% load) and the B6 Bi-Turbo to elicit a special symphony from the tailpipes during dynamic bursts of acceleration. As befits the character of the B6 Bi-Turbo in Sport and Sport+ Modes, the exhaust valves remain open at all times.

CHASSIS – DYNAMIC COMFORT

High-performance convertibles and large grand coupés place special demands on their chassis – requiring distinct levels of comfort for easy cruising, safe and neutral handling at high speeds, and light-footed agility for the moments in between. In order to do justice to this broad spectrum of requirements, the new B6 Bi-Turbo features the latest electronic suspension technologies and comes with Variable Damper Control (electronically adjustable dampers) and Dynamic Drive (active roll stabilisation) as standard.

This system has been artfully calibrated by ALPINA and is tied into other system parameters controlling steering assistance, torque cushioning and the Dynamic Stability Con- trol system. Featuring pronounced Comfort+, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes, the B6 Bi-Turbo transitions effortlessly from cultivated luxury convertible to thorough-bred sports car. Across all variables, the Coupé has been set-up to be more sporting and dynamic, and features a rear axle with limited slip differential as standard.

Specific springs, increased front wheel camber and a subtle adjustment of the toe-in in conjunction with a 20“ wheel-tyre combination all serve to produce a very agile chassis set-up. The lightweight 20“ ALPINA CLASSIC wheels, with MICHELIN PILOT SUPER SPORT tyres in the dimensions 255/35 ZR20 front and 285/30 ZR20 rear, contribute significantly to the direct handling and precise steering. Conventional tyres are used to promote ride comfort.

DESIGN EXTERIOR – EXCITING DETAILS, FUNCTIONAL AERODYNAMICS

The BMW 6 Series is marked by an elegant and dynamic design as well as excellent aerodynamic properties. ALPINA gives the new B6 Bi-Turbo a unique, powerful appearance which elegantly underlines the sporty character of this beautiful coupé and convertible.

The exterior components that influence the aerodynamic properties of the B6 Bi-Turbo are not just there for aesthetic reasons – their design is subject primarily to functional premises and plays a central role in achieving excellent high speed stability. Take for example the front spoiler with the integrated carbon fibre front splitter. It causes more air to flow over and around the vehicle, simultaneously reducing the air masses which flow underneath by more than 10%. This leads to a noticeable stabilisation of the front- end at high speeds and plays a role in reducing any tendencies to understeer. The front spoiler, in conjunction with the rear spoiler, ensures that the B6 Bi-Turbo is very well ‘tethered’ overall. Uplift on the front axle is reduced by 14% and tends towards a value of zero on the rear axle from a speed of 150km/h. Instead of the rear spoiler, the Coupé is also available with a rear wing - which despite an impressive visual impact, fits precisely the contours of the rear area and reduces drag.

All these components also ensure the effective flow of air to various cooler groups, such as the inter-coolers and engine cooling system. One special detail: the high- performance brakes, with a diameter of 374mm front and 345mm rear, are additionally supplied with cooling air by a specially constructed NACA air intake on the front underbody.

The double tailpipes, with a slightly elliptical shape in typical ALPINA style, are designed in titanium and carry small logos that make discreet reference to the origins of the ALPINA exhaust system made by Akrapovič. The rear valence, which attractively and elegantly frames the outlet of the tailpipes, additionally integrates the features of a diffuser.

INTERIOR & EQUIPMENT – MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP, EXCLUSIVE PERSONALISATION

Blue ALPINA instruments with high resolution information display with black panel LCD technology. A sport steering wheel, hand-stitched in LAVALINA leather. Blue illumi- nated entry sills with logo. Or the classic ALPINA exotic wood equipment in myrtle – an exclusive burl wood of the laurel family, which grows only on the Pacific coast of the USA. These are just some of the elegant features of the interior that point to the exclusive origins of the B6 Bi-Turbo – just for connoisseurs.

Naturally, no limits are set on the personal predilections of customers. From the paintwork to the interior trims to the colour of the upholstery – everything offered by the exten- sive BMW and ALPINA equipment range is available. Seldom does a BMW ALPINA leave Buchloe without making use of the virtually limitless personalisation options offered by the ALPINA Manufaktur. Our philosophy dictates that the customer can design his or her own individual interior – made by skilled craftsmen in our leather workshop.
The B6 Bi-Turbo features an extensive range of standard equipment, including leather upholstery, fully adjustable comfort seats with heating system, navigation system with preparation for Bluetooth mobile phone, USB audio interface, Xenon lights and LED fog lights.

Buchloe, March 2012

Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo








Limited Edition Alpina B3 GT3

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Motor sport heritage limited edition based on the BMW ALPINA B3 S Bi-Turbo Coupé

ALPINA’s recent return to international motor sport peaked last year, with the drivers Alexandros Margaritis and Dino Lunardi winning the German GT Series, the 2011 ADAC GT Masters Championship, in the BMW ALPINA B6 GT3. With this achievement ALPINA purposefully demonstrates that despite a long absence from motor sports, cutting edge automotive know-how and technical expertise continues to be the foundation for the development of exclusive BMW ALPINA automobiles. Ideal circumstances to
re-kindle the long-standing ALPINA tradition of creating ultra small series limited editions.

The BMW ALPINA B3 GT3 combines exceptional characteristics and technical features of the ALPINA B6 GT3 race car with classic design elements of iconic ALPINA automobiles of the past – to the delight of ALPINA customers and enthusiasts worldwide.
Strictly limited to 99 cars, the BMW ALPINA B3 GT3 will be available from spring 2012 at a price of approx. € 90.000,- including 19% VAT (German specification, ex-works Buchloe).

The exceptionally smooth twin turbocharged 3.0 liter in line six-cylinder engine from the BMW ALPINA B3 S Bi-Turbo - with its massive torque and effortless performance - is also employed in the B3 GT3. Re-designing sections of the exhaust system and installing a newly enhanced rear silencer the exhaust pressure has been further reduced, increasing output in the B3 GT3 by 8hp. The direct petrol injected engine now delivers a total power output of 408hp at 6000rpm and 540Nm of torque at 4500rpm.

+ Titanium rear silencer and tailpipes, lightweight made by Akrapovič

Developed in collaboration with Akrapovič, the renowned specialist for Titanium exhaust systems, the B3 GT3 exhaust system is
lightweight, impressive yet elegant in appearance and, in keeping with the character of the car, has a raspy sound.

The use of Titanium for the rear silencer and tailpipes, in addition to other constructional design measures such as the removal of the middle silencer, the use of an x-section and significantly larger diameter pipes, has resulted not only in a reduction in back pressure but also a weight saving of 11kg.

Taking design cues from the B6 GT3 race car and in order to support weight reduction efforts, the exhaust system ‘only‘ has two
typically ALPINA oval shaped tailpipes but of increased diameter (115mm). In addition to its heat protective function, the lightweight carbon tailpipe trim provides for a more aggressive design.

Extensive sound development measures where aimed at achieving a natural, unfiltered and typical six cylinder sound.

+ High performance fixed calliper brake system

Besides exceptional acceleration, in 4.5s from 0-100km/h, and a fulminant power delivery, negative acceleration also plays a pivotal role in satisfying the demands of enthusiast drivers.

The B3 GT3 features a high performance motor sport brake set-up with 6-piston fixed callipers at the front and 4-piston fixed calliper at the rear, with grooved discs measuring 380 x 35 mm at the front and 355 x 32 mm at the rear. The brake callipers are painted in blue with discrete ALPINA lettering in Silver.

Overall, the brakes are designed for high stress and load under forced conditions and are characterised by excellent fading resistance, good modulation (control) and response - without sacrificing comfort and practicality.

+ ALPINA GT3 CLASSIC 19“ lightweight alloy wheels, forged

Anyone mentions the name ALPINA, most people inevitably think of the famous ALPINA CLASSIC light alloy wheels, their closely guarded trademark design significantly shaping the appearance of almost all BMW ALPINA automobiles since the beginning.
It is only logical then, that the new and exclusively for the B3 GT3 available lightweight forged alloy wheels are also of CLASSIC design. Forged aluminium alloy exhibits much higher stiffness and strength characteristics compared to conventional cast aluminium alloy, translating into a significant weight reduction and more design freedom. The design of the 19” lightweight forged alloy wheels, which are painted in Himalaya Grey, has been inspired by the B6 GT3 race car. The 20 spokes are particularly fine and ‘clean’, giving the wheel a minimalist technical and timeless appearance. The new wheels, which are 25% lighter, result in a further weight reduction of 10kg, despite increasing half-an-inch in width to 8.5 x 19" front and 9.5 x 19" rear (front: 8.9kg, rear: 9.3kg).

+ Race-bred coilover sports suspension, perfectly balanced

The coilover suspension technology in the B6 GT3 played a central role in achieving success at widely varying race circuits, which
all required very different set-ups.

The direct transfer of this technology ‘from the track to the street’ allows for far reaching adjustment of the suspension on the B3 GT3
according to widely different requirements, and for fine-tuning and balancing the handling according to personal preference.

The coilovers are fully height adjustable, meaning the ride height of the vehicle can be changed significantly. Additionally the dampers feature a 12-fold compression and 18-fold rebound adjustment. The range of adjustment has been carefully calibrated to allow for a dynamic yet sufficiently comfortable road-biased set-up for normal driving while simultaneously offering an amplitude of adjustment for also achieving a purely track-focussed race set-up.

Fundamental suspension components including the springs and stabilisers have been specifically calibrated by ALPINA to suit the
dynamic focus of the B3 GT3. Special top mounts with adjustable top mount plates at the front ensure an especially stiff connection to the chassis. Combined, all these components ensure that the B3 GT3 exhibits the kind of poised and extremely neutral handling which
one expects from ALPINA.

The overall chassis and suspension set-up translates into a real performance increase and exceptional levels of lateral grip.
If necessary over and understeer can also be influenced according to personal preference by means of adjusting the camber at the front, just like on the B6 GT3 race car.

+ Sophisticated aerodynamics

Besides its competitive drivetrain and suspension technology, the B6 GT3 race car managed to more than hold its own in the ADAC GT Masters thanks to its exceptional aerodynamics – downforce playing a vital role in achieving fast lap times. The B3 GT3 special edition exhibits a number of aerodynamic features which have been directly derived from the experience gained in motor racing.
The combination of a front splitter, which is mounted on the underside of the front spoiler, and dive plates, which are mounted on the side of the front valence, ensures excellent aerodynamic properties at the front end. To achieve an ideal aerodynamic balance a carbon wing is mounted at the rear. The profile of the rear wing is such, that it reduces lift at the rear significantly without negatively effecting the drag coefficient. The rear diffusor, in black matt, also plays a part in ensuring that the aerodynamic efficiency at the rear end is improved.

In summary, the optimum design and combination of these components means that lift has been completely dialled out, the B3 GT3 is the first roadgoing BMW ALPINA automobile to exhibit actual downforce at the front and rear.

+ GT3 Cup wheel and tyre set

For everyday use, the B3 GT3 comes equipped with MICHELIN Pilot Sport 2 tyres as standard. For the race track, an optional GT3
Cup wheel and tyre set, consisting of a set of ALPINA GT3 CLASSIC 19“ lightweight alloy wheels with MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup+ tyres is available. The Cup tyres deliver excellent performance on the track in dry conditions and at an optimum tyre operating tem- perature range from 50°C to 90°C. Despite being road legal, these tyres are not recommended for everyday use because public roads do not offer the suitable conditions for achieving the optimum tyre operating temperatures. Furthermore, these tyres have very little
negative profile, necessitating super careful driving in damp and wet road conditions (aquaplaning).

+ Interior, tradition meets sport

All B3 GT3’s feature a Leather/Alcantara interior upholstery in black. Both driver and passenger are seated in lightweight Recaro sport seats with seat heating. Ergonomically shaped and with a firm seat cushion, they deliver excellent comfort in combination with optimum lateral support. The seats can be adjusted in height by about 30mm via their mounting points and feature manual back and horizontal adjustment.

A special highlight for ALPINA enthusiasts: vertical stripes designed in ALPINA racing colours are integrated into the front and rear seats. The sports steering wheel with paddles is finished in grippy Alcantara, hand finished with Blue/Green stitching.

+ Limited 99

Limited to 99 units worldwide, the B3 GT3 features a comprehensive and carefully selected standard equipment level, in line with its sporting character.

For customers wishing to have a built-in navigation system, B3 GT3 is available with an optional Comfort Package, which includes BMW Profes- sional Multimedia Navigation System and BMW Park Distance Control (PDC). Other BMW options are not available. The B3 GT3 is available as standard in Black Sapphire metallic and Mineral White metallic or optionally in special paintwork ALPINA Blue metallic. The interior trim is carried out in Alcantara Black with ALPINA lettering (embossed).

Unique and exclusive, the B3 GT3 is optionally available with a full body vinyl wrap in the official B6 GT3 race car design (Green/Blue/Silver), including interior trim in Green high-gloss. All cars are equipped with a rear axle with a Drexler limited slip differential, similar to the B6 GT3 race car. Every B3 GT3 is labelled with a specially designed production plaque in the interior.

Alpina B3 GT3 Limited Edition






Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo

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BMW ALPINA B5 BITURBO – SALOON, TOURING – HIGH PERFORMANCE, PERFECTLY STYLED
(MODEL YEAR 03/2012)

THE POWERTRAIN – FIRST CLASS PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMY


The new all-aluminium V8 powerplant produces 540hp (397kW) at a moderate 5200 to 6250rpm, with maximum torque of 730Nm available between 2800 and 5000rpm. “Bi-Turbo” refers to two turbo-chargers configured in parallel, each feeding one of the two cylinder banks. Specially developed large diameter exhaust-turbines allow this engine configuration to provide both exceptional power output and an abundance of torque over an especially broad rpm range while maintaining excellent throttle response at low rpm.

The comprehensive high-performance cooling system comprises an indirect inter-cooling system (air-to-water/water-to-air) with short intake tracts and increased inter-cooler flow. The systems excellent thermodynamic efficiency is guaranteed by a large-volume low-temperature inter-cooler radiator, as well as two water-to-air inter-coolers placed close to the engine.

High-performance MAHLE pistons are designed specifically to deal with temperatures and pressures associated with up to 1.2 bar charging and the engine’s 9.2:1 nominal compression ratio. Altogether this results in an impressive specific output of 123 horsepower (90kW) per litre and a mean total compression of 20.1 bar.

Direct injection and Double-VANOS contribute to the B5 Bi-Turbo’s class-leading performance, emissions and economy in this segment: 10.5l/100km (Touring: 10.6l/100km) and 252g/km CO2 (Touring: 255g/km) (Combined, measured according to ECE Norm).

TRANSMISSION – EIGHT-SPEED “WUNDERKIND”

Adapted and tested in co-operation with ZF, the advanced SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission sets a new benchmark. With ALPINA’s philosophy the guiding credo, our engineers have spent thousands of development and test hours ensuring that no other performance automatic transmission comes close to providing this level of both comfort and performance.
The blend of eight speeds and plenty of torque makes for unparalleled comfortable gear changes with no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power – only the accompanying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. 730Nm of torque means the B5 Bi-Turbo excels at cruising along at speed in a high gear at minimum rpm, benefiting both consumption and comfort.

Using the Sport (S) Shift Mode a completely different character emerges: the transmission is crisp and unmistakably immediate. The innovative single-cylinder fade-out (known as 'Einzelzylinderausblendung‘ in German), enables super quick up-shifts which take just milliseconds. Depending on the load on the transmission, the injection of fuel into a given cylinder is interrupted for a fraction of a second, creating the required reduction in torque that the automatic transmission needs for the up-shift. The advantages versus the typical method of timing retardation are noticeably quicker shifts, improved thermo-dynamic efficiency due to reduced exhaust temperatures and lower fuel consumption. Each up-shift is accompanied by a deep back-pressure burble.
The SWITCH-TRONIC buttons, for use in the Manual (M) Shift Mode, are ergonomically and unobtrusively positioned on the back of the steering wheel, and allow the driver to take complete control of the transmission. The system allows for multi-simultaneous down-shifts in milliseconds, hereby the transmission will skip several gears depending on engine loads and rpm. In this manner the 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC reveals itself as extremely multi-faceted, providing the right shift characteristic for any and all situations.

The Automatic Up-Shift function means that the transmission will up-shift into a higher gear once a certain rpm threshold has been passed in the current gear. In certain driving situations this may not be desired, for example during especially sporty driving or for example when encountering multiple tight hair-pin corners. The simultaneous selection of either Sport, Sport+ or DSC OFF Mode using the Drive Dynamic Control button and the selection of the M Shift Mode (transmission) will deactivate the automatic up-shift funtion. The transmission will hold the selected gear up to maximum rpm’s (electronically limited) and will not automatically up-shift into a higher gear.

The intelligent coupling of state-of-the-art engine and transmission technologies give the B5 Bi-Turbo stunning performance figures: 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds (Touring: 4.6) and a top speed of 319km/h (Touring: 316km/h). Massive braking capability in the form of ventilated high-performance brakes (374mm front, 345mm rear) ensures braking on par with pure-bred sports cars.

SUSPENSION – DYNAMIC COMFORT

The times when „properly stiff„ suspensions were seen as a positive handling characteristic are long gone. It remains a fact that a truly neutral set-up, even at the limit, provides the best technical compromise. This is achieved in part through shorter ALPINA springs and specific transverse suspension arms which in combination result in an optimised camber. Together with 20” wheels and tyres this yields a very balanced and direct chassis set-up, discarding a pure sport-orientated approach for an agile suspension with pre- cise turn-in. Mounted on the light-weight 20” ALPINA CLASSIC wheels are non-run-flat MICHLIN PILOT SUPER SPORT tyres measuring 255/35 ZR20 front and 285/30 ZR20 rear. Representing the latest in ultra-high performance tyre technology available today, they feature a running surface is made up of 2/3rds soft compound (centre) and 1/3rd hard compound (outside and flanks). This mixture makes for excellent durability despite typical hard use in high-performance vehicles yet provides very good grip in the wet. Enhanced tread stability and a new flank reinforcement technology ensure the tyre is less likely to suffer from spikes in temperature with a resulting loss of grip in the dry.

To fulfil the seemingly contradictory demands for comfort, everyday usability and sports car like handling, the B5 Bi-Turbo is equipped with electronically-adjustable dampers (Variable Damper Control). This system has been artfully calibrated by ALPINA, and is tied into other system parameters controlling steering assistance, torque cushioning and the Dynamic Stability Control system. Featuring pronounced Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ modes, the B5 Bi-Turbo transitions effortlessly from cultivated luxury to thorough-bred sportiness. Light steering, ultra-comfortable suspension and an imperceptibly shifting transmission make the B5 Bi-Turbo an ideal partner in stop-and-go traffic, when covering great distances or when encountering less than perfect road surfaces. Yet at the touch of a button, the B5 Bi-Turbo will track through tricky corners and exciting sections of road with an agility and light-footedness like no other in its class.

An especially for the BMW ALPINA B5 Bi-Turbo in co-operation between ALPINA and Drexler Motorsport adapted limited-slip differential is available as an option. This mechanical limited-slip differential improves traction during dynamic driving and minimises slip by distributing torque and power to the wheel with the most grip. The opera- tion of the limited-slip differential is permanent and independent from other driving dynamic settings or systems. Significant characteristics include: torque sensing multidisc differential with pre-tensioning; active locking characteristic up to 30 % under load and 20 % under trailing throttle; very reactive in sensing slip, harmonious self-steering properties and excellent directional stability; motor sport quality, forged gears, CNC milled housing, hand built.

DESIGN & INTERIOR – CLASSIC CRAFTSMANSHIP MEETS MODERN TECHNOLOGY

The B5 Bi-Turbo presents typical ALPINA virtues and design cues in a new and convincing fashion, with a refreshing and dynamic appearance. Both the saloon’s and the touring’s silhouette begins with an attention commanding front that is powerful and confident, and ends with a harmonious and elegant rear. The ALPINA trademark two double-ended-pipes are artfully integrated into the rear valence which features a discreet diffuser. The diffuser can be deleted as needed, should the customer desire the optional ability to tow a trailer. In combination with the rear spoiler (Saloon), the B5 Bi-Turbo’s total aerodynamic package yields the highest levels of safety and stability, especially at high speeds. The resulting reduction in lift, speed-dependent, can reach a remarkable –60 % front and –30 % rear.

The interior reveals the expected discreet touches that suggest the B5 Bi-Turbo’s exclusive pedigree. The standard equipment level is comprehensive: leather interior, versatile and adjustable Comfort seats, an excellent navigation system with Bluetooth preparation, and Xenon headlamps all ensure the driver’s and passengers’ well-being. The hand-stitched LAVALINA leather SWITCH-TRONIC steering wheel can be positioned exactly as needed to see the blue ALPINA gauges with black-panel LCD technolo- gy, thanks to the electrically-adjustable steering column. The classic ALPINA burled Myrtle wood trim provides a warm ambience - found only on the USA’s Pacific Coast it is cultivated from dedicated Laurel tree groves grown for just this purpose. Optional ALPINA Piano Lacquer interior trim with its silver diagonal rhombs, offers a modern and just as exclusive alternative.
The interior’s warm ambience and modern treatments foster a sense of well-being. For those who would only award themselves that something unique, exclusive volumes and the ALPINA philosophy of hand-craftsmanship offer a nearly endless spectrum of personalisation.

Buchloe, March 2012

Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo






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      03-07-2012, 10:04 AM   #2
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I would def drive the b6 wow that thing looks awesome
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      03-07-2012, 10:08 AM   #3
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I quite like the B3 GT3, and for the most part the B6. Not sure about the B6 seats though, somewhat odd. Overall though these are very well done
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      03-07-2012, 10:40 AM   #4
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those b3 seats are sick!!
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      03-07-2012, 10:49 AM   #5
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Damn...why do we get the short end of the stick here in the states, we buy way more BMW'S.
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      03-07-2012, 11:33 AM   #6
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I think it's because of price. BMW sells cars for way cheaper stateside, but with a lot of volume.

Bringing low-production vehicles to the states would probably end up costing BMW money.
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      03-07-2012, 11:41 AM   #7
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Matte Paint rocks!
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      03-07-2012, 11:50 AM   #8
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More four wheeled eye candy.
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      03-07-2012, 12:25 PM   #9
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The B6's interior is very Bentley-esque with that diamond quilted seating. It would be nice to see the Alpinas come to the US.
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      03-07-2012, 12:52 PM   #10
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Wow, I wonder how this new Alpina N63 compares to the S63 as far as responsiveness? They are making almost as much power as M now. And how can you argue with a 540hp touring. Change those Bentley-ish wheels to something BMW OEM and you are good to go.

I gather the B7 will get this newer more powerful engine soon too, including in the US?

And 408hp for the B3 GT3 is not too shabby for what I assume is a tuned N55. That's assuming it has some sort of warranty.
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      03-07-2012, 01:09 PM   #11
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Originally Posted by mkoesel View Post
And 408hp for the B3 GT3 is not too shabby for what I assume is a tuned N55. That's assuming it has some sort of warranty.
The Alpina B3 BT always uses the N54, not the N55 engine. You cannot extract that much power from the N55 with its single twinscroll turbocharger.

The B3 GT3 is basically a B3 S BT with a KW3 suspension, StopTech brakes and an Akrapovic exhaust, as well as slightly different wheels and race seats.

And of course any Alpina car retains the full BMW warranty. They're produced in BMW factories anyway.

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      03-07-2012, 01:38 PM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Alpina_B3_Lux View Post
The Alpina B3 BT always uses the N54, not the N55 engine. You cannot extract that much power from the N55 with its single twinscroll turbocharger.
Thanks for the info. However, I am sure with the proper modifications an N55 could make 408hp. After all, the N20 with single twin scroll can make almost 300hp, or 150hp/L.

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And of course any Alpina car retains the full BMW warranty. They're produced in BMW factories anyway.
Right, although sometimes limited production vehicles like this are sold with no warranty. But since you've pointed out that it is just a B3 S with some further upgrades, it makes sense it will have a warranty as well.
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      03-07-2012, 02:44 PM   #13
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In the UK Apina's come with 2 year manufactures warranty, after which you can extend with BMW warranty.
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      03-07-2012, 03:05 PM   #14
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Thanks for the info. However, I am sure with the proper modifications an N55 could make 408hp. After all, the N20 with single twin scroll can make almost 300hp, or 150hp/L.
As far as I know the N20 in its strongest 28i iteration makes 245hp, not 300.

And the N55 would not be reliable with anything above 350/360, certainly not to the extent Alpina would like it to be. There's a very good reason BMW and Alpina continue to use the N54 for the higher hp applications.

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      03-07-2012, 06:24 PM   #15
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Oh lord...no those wheels again
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      03-08-2012, 08:04 AM   #16
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Love the interior styling of the 6! It looks phenomenal!
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      03-08-2012, 08:06 AM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Alpina_B3_Lux View Post
As far as I know the N20 in its strongest 28i iteration makes 245hp, not 300.
Right, that's true, in factory configuration. But I was talking about aftermarket upgrades we have seen from a couple different manufacturers already. They are very close to 300hp for the N20. Why was I comparing aftermarket? Because in many ways, that is exactly what Alpina is. They take BMW's engines and modify them for more power.

Quote:
And the N55 would not be reliable with anything above 350/360, certainly not to the extent Alpina would like it to be. There's a very good reason BMW and Alpina continue to use the N54 for the higher hp applications.
BMW is axing the N54 this year, and yet I firmly believe we will continue to see 400hp+ I6 powered cars from various tuners. They will simply turn up the R&D on the N55 and get it to put out similar numbers to the N20 on a per-displacement basis. Maybe it will require other modifications that the N20 does not. But they will nevertheless find a way to do it.
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      03-08-2012, 09:21 AM   #18
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Alpina has a great range of models, including a B5 based on F11 5 series
So there is no cry after an M5 touring...
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      03-09-2012, 08:58 AM   #19
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classy things
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      03-09-2012, 10:42 AM   #20
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classy things
Alpina's are made with better taste than the competitors. Where others are vulgar, Alpina is classy. And technically more refined too
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