The Alpina B3 Coupe (E36) 3.0i 24V, produced between 1993 and 1996, represents a unique blend of BMW’s established 3 Series platform and Alpina’s renowned engineering expertise. Based on the E36 3 Series Coupe, the B3 was not a mere tuning exercise, but a comprehensively refined vehicle designed to offer a more sophisticated and powerful grand touring experience. It occupied a niche position, bridging the gap between the standard BMW 3 Series and the higher-performance M3, appealing to drivers seeking a balance of luxury, performance, and exclusivity. This particular 3.0i 24V variant, with its 250 horsepower inline-six engine, was a key offering within the B3 lineup during this period.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 Coupe (E36) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0i 24V (250 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 25 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 30.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.6 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 258 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 160.31 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 188 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 240.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 250 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 236.02 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2997 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 182.89 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm |
| Piston Stroke | 3.39 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 | 1330 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 2932.15 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg |
| Max. weight | 4078.55 lbs |
| Max load | 520 kg |
| Max load | 1146.4 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 405 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 14.3 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 17.17 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity | 14.3 UK gal |
| Length | 4433 mm |
| Length | 174.53 in. |
| Width | 1710 mm |
| Width | 67.32 in. |
| Height | 1346 mm |
| Height | 52.99 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in. |
| Front track | 1410 mm |
| Front track | 55.51 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1423 mm |
| Rear (Back) track | 56.02 in. |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m |
| Minimum turning circle | 34.12 ft. |
| 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR17; 265/35 ZR17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 3.0i 24V lies Alpina’s modified version of the BMW M30 inline-six engine. Displacing 3.0 liters (2997 cc), this engine featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head with four valves per cylinder (24V). Alpina’s enhancements included high-compression pistons (10.5:1 compression ratio), a specially designed camshaft, and a tuned Bosch Motronic fuel injection system. These modifications resulted in a power output of 250 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s smooth power delivery and characteristic inline-six sound were hallmarks of the B3 experience. The B3 3.0i 24V was exclusively offered with a 5-speed manual transmission, optimized for the engine’s torque curve and providing a direct connection to the rear wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 3.0i 24V offered a distinctly refined driving experience. While not as overtly aggressive as the M3, it provided ample performance for spirited driving. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 5.8 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 160 mph. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s powerband, allowing for strong acceleration in any gear. The suspension, while based on the standard E36 setup, was subtly tuned by Alpina to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling precision. The B3 felt planted and stable at high speeds, making it an excellent choice for long-distance cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina B3 Coupe was positioned as a premium offering, and as such, came standard with a generous level of equipment. Interior features included leather upholstery, sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and wood trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Alpina also offered a range of bespoke customization options, allowing customers to personalize their B3 to their exact specifications. Exterior features included Alpina-specific aerodynamic enhancements, such as a front spoiler and rear decklid spoiler, as well as unique 17-inch alloy wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 Coupe utilized the standard E36 3 Series chassis, but with several Alpina-specific modifications. The suspension was slightly lowered and stiffened, and the stabilizer bars were upgraded for improved handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS as standard. The B3’s suspension setup provided a good balance between comfort and handling, making it a capable performer on both smooth roads and winding country lanes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 Coupe was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. It was often seen as a more refined and comfortable alternative to the BMW M3, appealing to drivers who prioritized grand touring capabilities over outright track performance. Compared to the standard 3 Series Coupe, the B3 offered a significant performance upgrade, as well as a more luxurious and well-equipped interior. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance coupe, averaging around 25 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs were higher than those of a standard BMW due to the specialized nature of the Alpina components.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 Coupe (E36) 3.0i 24V remains a highly sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts today. Its combination of classic BMW styling, Alpina’s engineering expertise, and relatively limited production numbers has made it a collectible car. The M30 inline-six engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance, although finding qualified mechanics familiar with Alpina-specific components can be a challenge. Well-maintained examples of the B3 Coupe command premium prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and status as a unique and desirable classic.
