Driven: Alpina B3

The new Alpina B3 is the result of a long tradition of collaboration. Alpina and BMW have a relationship that goes back to 1962 when Alpina began selling tuning kits for the BMW 1500. Only two years later in 1964, Alpina’s robust products were so well-regarded, they earned the BMW factory guarantee.

Today, relations between the two companies are closer than ever; for instance, the Alpina B7 is assembled on the BMW 7 Series production line, and then shipped to Alpina for final customization.

Alpina gets early VIP access to BMW test mules and engineering data; as a result, Alpina’s product introductions closely follow BMW’s.

Although the companies are close, they approach performance differently. This is fantastic if you miss twin-turbocharging. Alpina is not too keen on the twin-scroll craze at BMW, so the straight six in the Alpina B3 is twin-turbocharged. Alpina is well-known for its torque fixation, and the company’s fans feed off this. Twin turbos are a great way for Alpina’s torque-addicted customers to remain happy. The B3 offers 443 lb-ft on tap, and 404 horsepower — impressive for a 3.0L straight six.

The Alpina B3 also offers upgraded suspension, damping, wheels and tires, culminating in a package that makes the 3 Series chassis even better. It’s like a BMW massaged by angels, and what could be better than that?

Find out more about how the car drives by reading Autocar’s review.

via [Autocar]