One of the most luxurious and exclusive Tourings currently available, from a historic car brand that takes BMW to the next level in every way. Condition: virtually factory new.
Unlike BMW M models, ALPINAs are more focused on long comfortable Autobahn blasting at high speeds, rather than driving on the Nordschleife. This manifests itself in engines with more torque at the low end and more smoothly tuned handling than the high-revving and harder-suspended M models. Make no mistake: ALPINAs are (at least) as fast in a straight line as their M equivalents. On top of that, the interior is of a much higher standard, with opulent wooden trim instead of carbon fibre and, instead of hard sports seats, leather seats that would not be out of place in top British brands, but with German build quality. Nor are these mass-produced but largely hand-built luxury vehicles. A totally different character.
But first, back in time. In 1962, German Burkard Bovensiepen developed a double Weber carburettor for the BMW 1500. This was so well received that from 1964 BMW maintained the factory warranty for models fitted with this carburettor. From then on, ALPINA got involved in developing various racing parts for BMWs only, specialising in carburettors and fast camshafts, which to this day are depicted in the ALPINA logo.
The brand was very successful in racing until it withdrew from the various competitions in 1988 to focus entirely on producing passenger cars. Since 1983, the brand has been recognised as an independent manufacturer by the German Ministry of Transport, after which all cars produced were registered as ALPINA.
This betrays how far ALPINA goes in customising BMWs: BMW engines are shipped to Buchloe, manually modified, returned to BMW's production line to be fitted into a completed chassis, and the entire vehicle then goes back to Buchloe to be finished and fitted with more luxurious interior parts and other modifications. All this is done almost entirely by hand, which limits production and guarantees exclusivity.
A typical ALPINA invention is the so-called Switch-Tronic system, with which, in 1992, ALPINA became the first manufacturer to offer steering-wheel-mounted manual operation of an automatic gearbox. Further characteristic features are the multi-spoke alloy wheels with the valve cap under a central cover, modified bumpers and optional stickers inspired by the racing cars of the past. Inside, soft leather and wood dominate, along with ALPINA logos and nameplates.
This is a 2022 ALPINA B5 Touring Allrad, based on a G31-generation BMW M550i Touring xDrive. However, the N63 4.4L V8 has been fitted with a new lightweight intake and exhaust system, cooling system, two twin-scroll Garett turbochargers, high compression pistons, special spark plugs and a new ECU programmed by ALPINA, among others. All this produces 621 hp and 800 Nm of torque. To handle this torque reliably, the ZF automatic gearbox has been fitted with heavier components and the special Switch-Tronic shifter system.
The chassis has also been extensively modified and the all-wheel steering has been recalibrated. All-wheel drive sends up to 90% of the power to the rear wheels. Pirelli P Zero tyres have been specially designed for this model.
This example was originally delivered in Germany. Finished in understated Azuritschwarz II (very dark blue metallic) with black Nappa leather and almost all options.
NB: this is a VAT car. Dutch VAT is included in the bids. Business buyers may reclaim the VAT (21%), depending on each personal situation. Bids include registration on a new Dutch number plate.
ALPINAs are a good example of 'stealth wealth': only the connoisseur knows what is in front of them, the outsider sees a well-dressed BMW. You can show up driving these anywhere. The colour scheme and lack of stickers also make this one a real 'sleeper'. Did we mention that this one is just run-in with just 4,300 km on the odometer?
As an independent car brand, ALPINA's exclusivity and craftsmanship goes beyond tuning companies Brabus and ABT. Even with ALPINA now officially being part of the BMW Group since 2022, the brand will continue to exist independently. It does mean that the current range is among the last models ALPINA has produced as a completely separate brand, which may help the investment value of this B5. One thing is certain: you won't get any closer to an M5 Touring (for now), but with a premium-level interior and more comfort.
This ALPINA is equipped from factory with:
None, this car is still completely original.
The car is in near-new condition and is delivered through the ALPINA importer. Expect a condition approaching perfection.
The ALPINA is currently registered on German license plates; before delivery, the ALPINA B5 will be registered in the Netherlands. This is included in the (bid) price.
Given the low mileage, the car has not yet needed any maintenance.
The ALPINA is delivered by Dusseldorp BMW, a large Dutch dealer group specialising in BMW, also official importer of ALPINA. This B5 was traded in by its owner for a new ALPINA XB7.
Seller - Dusseldorp Official BMW / ALPINA
Seller type - Business
Location - Netherlands
Chassis number - WAPBG3100MKM50749
Registration number - German: NGM 899 ( will be delivered with new NL licence plate)
Year/date - 4 July 2022
Mileage - 4,300 km
Demonstrable - Yes, all documented
Warranty - yes, 33 months remaining
VAT/Margin car - VAT
Bodywork - Sationwagon
Engine - ALPINA M5/1 4.4L V8 Bi-Turbo 612hp (based on BMW N63B44T3)
Drive - All wheel drive
Transmission - ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with Switch-Tronic steering wheel controls
Exterior - Azuritschwarz II metallic C47
Interior - Exclusive leather Nappa Black Exclusive stitching LZFK
Smokers car - No
Owners - 1
Tyres - New Pirelli P Zero ALP
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