The Alpina B10 Touring (E39), produced between 1998 and 2004, represents a unique blend of high performance and practicality. Based on the BMW E39 5 Series Touring, the B10 was Alpina’s take on a high-performance wagon, offering a more refined and exclusive alternative to the M5 Touring which BMW never officially produced. Positioned as a luxury performance vehicle, it catered to buyers seeking a powerful, comfortable, and relatively understated estate car. The “4.6 i V8 32V (347 Hp) Switchtronic” variant was the primary configuration offered, combining a naturally aspirated V8 engine with Alpina’s proprietary automatic transmission. This specific variant occupied a premium niche within the E39 Touring range, sitting above all standard BMW trims in terms of performance and luxury, but offering a more subtle and grand touring-focused experience than a potential M5 Touring.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B10 |
| Generation | B10 Touring (E39) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.6 i V8 32V (347 Hp) Switchtronic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 19.4 l/100 km (12.1 US mpg, 14.6 UK mpg, 5.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 269 km/h (167.15 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 192.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 266.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 3700 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4619 cm3 (281.87 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1525 l (53.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal, 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4805 mm (189.17 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2830 mm (111.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR 18; 265/35 ZR 18 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the B10 Touring is the Alpina-modified BMW M60 V8 engine. Displacing 4.6 liters, this engine is based on BMW’s M60 block but features significant enhancements by Alpina. These include high-compression pistons, a modified crankshaft, and optimized cylinder heads with larger valves. The engine utilizes a Bosch Motronic engine management system, recalibrated by Alpina for improved performance and driveability. Fuel delivery is handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 347 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque at 3,700 rpm.
Crucially, the B10 Touring employed Alpina’s “Switch-Tronic” automatic transmission. This wasn’t a standard BMW automatic; it was a heavily modified ZF 5HP30 transmission with Alpina’s own software and shift logic. Switch-Tronic allowed for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via buttons on the steering wheel, offering a degree of driver control not typically found in luxury automatics of the era. The transmission was tuned for smooth shifts and optimal power delivery, complementing the V8’s characteristics. The gear ratios were carefully selected to provide both strong acceleration and relaxed highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The B10 Touring 4.6 i offered a unique driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as a contemporary M5, it provided a compelling blend of performance and comfort. The Switch-Tronic transmission, while not as quick as a modern dual-clutch gearbox, offered smooth and responsive shifts. The V8 engine delivered ample torque throughout the rev range, making for effortless cruising and strong acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 5.4 seconds was respectable for the late 1990s/early 2000s, and the car felt stable and planted at high speeds. The automatic transmission, while offering manual shift capability, prioritized smooth transitions and a relaxed driving experience, making it ideal for long journeys. Compared to the standard BMW 5 Series Touring, the B10 offered a more refined and powerful driving experience, with a greater emphasis on long-distance comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B10 Touring was exceptionally well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, and a high-end sound system. Alpina-specific touches included unique badging, a bespoke steering wheel, and Alpina-branded gauges. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio options. The interior was designed to be luxurious and comfortable, with a focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The B10 generally included features that were optional on the standard 5 Series, such as upgraded leather and more extensive wood trim.
Chassis & Braking
The B10 Touring’s chassis was based on the standard BMW E39 Touring, but with Alpina-specific modifications. These included stiffer springs and dampers, and a larger stabilizer bar, to improve handling and reduce body roll. The braking system featured ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension setup aimed to strike a balance between comfort and handling, providing a compliant ride without sacrificing stability. The rear suspension typically featured coil springs, offering a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B10 Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that it lacked the outright sporting edge of a dedicated performance car like the M5. Fuel economy, at around 17.7 US mpg combined, was typical for a V8-powered vehicle of its size and performance. Compared to other E39 Touring models, the B10 offered significantly more performance and a higher level of luxury, but at a considerably higher price point. The B10 was positioned as a niche product, appealing to buyers who wanted a unique and exclusive vehicle. It offered a compelling alternative to the standard 5 Series Touring and filled a gap in the market for a high-performance, luxury wagon.
Legacy
The Alpina B10 Touring (E39) remains a sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts. The 4.6 i V8 engine and Switch-Tronic transmission are generally considered reliable, although maintenance can be expensive due to the car’s age and complexity. Parts availability can be a challenge, but Alpina still provides some support for its older models. Today, the B10 Touring represents a unique and desirable combination of performance, luxury, and practicality, and well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. It stands as a testament to Alpina’s expertise in refining and enhancing BMW’s already excellent products. The car’s blend of performance, comfort, and exclusivity ensures its continued appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
