The Alpina B3 Coupe (E92) 3.0i Biturbo, produced between 2007 and 2013, represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity within the BMW 3 Series lineage. Based on the E92 generation of the 3 Series Coupe, the B3 was not a product of BMW’s M division, but rather a meticulously engineered vehicle by the independent manufacturer Alpina. Positioned as a high-performance alternative to the standard 3 Series and even the M3, the B3 3.0i Biturbo aimed to deliver a more refined and comfortable grand touring experience without sacrificing significant performance. It occupied a niche above the 335i, offering substantially more power and a more luxurious interior, while remaining more approachable and less track-focused than the M3.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 Coupe (E92) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0i Biturbo (360 Hp) Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg, 20.2 UK mpg, 7.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 285 km/h (177.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 3800-5000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 3800-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal, 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1782 mm (70.16 in.) |
| Height | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18ZR |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the B3 Coupe 3.0i Biturbo is its 2.979-liter inline-six cylinder engine, designated as the Alpina/BMW S30Bi. This engine is fundamentally based on the BMW N54 engine, but extensively modified by Alpina. The key difference lies in the implementation of two turbochargers – hence the “Biturbo” designation – instead of the single turbocharger found in the standard N54. These turbochargers are significantly upgraded, featuring larger compressors and intercoolers, to deliver increased airflow and boost pressure. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and double-VANOS (variable valve timing) for both intake and exhaust camshafts. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5500-6000 rpm and a substantial 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque between 3800 and 5000 rpm. The “Switch-Tronic” transmission is a ZF 6HP21 automatic gearbox, modified by Alpina for quicker shift times and more aggressive programming. It also features steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, allowing for manual gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 3.0i Biturbo offers a distinctly different driving experience compared to both the standard 3 Series Coupe and the M3. The twin-turbocharged inline-six delivers a broad and potent torque curve, providing effortless acceleration in virtually any gear. The Switch-Tronic transmission, while an automatic, responds quickly to driver inputs via the shift paddles, allowing for precise control. While not as raw or focused as the M3, the B3 offers impressive performance, achieving 0-60 mph in around 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 177 mph. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a more compliant ride than the M3 while still offering excellent body control. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and cruising, making it a capable grand tourer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Alpina vehicles were always characterized by a high level of standard equipment and luxurious appointments. The B3 Coupe 3.0i Biturbo typically included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and a sunroof. Alpina-specific touches included unique interior trim pieces, a bespoke steering wheel, and Alpina badging throughout the cabin. Optional extras included navigation, upgraded sound systems, and various exterior customization options. The interior generally featured a more refined and understated aesthetic compared to the more aggressively styled M3.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 Coupe utilized the standard E92 3 Series chassis, but with Alpina-specific modifications. The suspension was recalibrated with stiffer springs and dampers to improve handling and reduce body roll. The braking system featured ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. While the base 3 Series models often featured rear drum brakes, the B3 always came equipped with rear discs. The steering was precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Compared to the 335i, the B3 offered a significant power increase and a more refined driving experience. Against the M3, the B3 provided a more comfortable ride and a more relaxed grand touring character, albeit with slightly less ultimate track performance. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a high-performance coupe, averaging around 24.2 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from the robust BMW underpinnings and Alpina’s meticulous engineering.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 Coupe (E92) 3.0i Biturbo remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market today. Its combination of performance, luxury, and relative rarity has made it a sought-after model among enthusiasts. The twin-turbocharged inline-six engine is known for its durability and tunability, and with proper maintenance, these engines can provide years of reliable service. The Switch-Tronic transmission, while complex, is generally robust. However, as with any high-performance vehicle, regular maintenance and attention to detail are crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The B3 represents a unique chapter in the history of the 3 Series, offering a compelling alternative to the standard BMW offerings and cementing Alpina’s reputation as a builder of exceptional performance automobiles.
