The Alpina B3 (E90) 3.0i Biturbo Allrad Switch-Tronic, produced between 2008 and 2013, represents a high-performance variant of the BMW 3 Series (E90) sedan. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, independently refined the BMW platform, creating a vehicle that blended luxury, performance, and exclusivity. This particular iteration, equipped with a 3.0-liter biturbo inline-six engine and all-wheel drive, occupied the top echelon of the B3 lineup, offering a significant step up in power and capability compared to the standard 3 Series models and even the naturally aspirated B3 variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 (E90) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0i Biturbo (360 Hp) Allrad Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 218.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 304 Nm/tonne |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal, 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4545 mm (178.94 in.) |
| Width | 1817 mm (71.54 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1513 mm (59.57 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18ZR; 265/40 R18ZR |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 3.0i Biturbo lies Alpina’s meticulously engineered 3.0-liter inline-six engine, designated as the A3 engine family. This engine isn’t a direct derivative of the standard BMW N54 or N55 engines, but rather a heavily modified version. It features two turbochargers – one larger turbocharger for boost at lower engine speeds and a smaller turbocharger for higher RPMs – providing a broad and flat torque curve. The engine utilizes direct injection, a Mahle engine management system, and a unique intercooler setup to maximize efficiency and power output. 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, specifically calibrated by Alpina for quicker shifts and more responsive performance. It offers a manual shift mode, allowing drivers greater control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 3.0i Biturbo Allrad delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to the standard 3 Series or even the naturally aspirated B3 models. The all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, particularly in inclement weather, and contributes to confident handling. The twin-turbocharged engine provides instant and abundant power, resulting in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. The Switch-Tronic transmission, while smooth, is tuned for performance, holding gears longer and downshifting quickly under hard acceleration. Compared to a manual transmission equipped B3, the automatic offers a more relaxed driving experience, but some purists might find it slightly less engaging. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina B3 3.0i Biturbo Allrad was typically well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included leather upholstery, sport seats, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and Alpina-specific exterior and interior styling cues. These included unique Alpina front and rear bumpers, a rear spoiler, Alpina badging, and distinctive interior trim elements. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, upgraded sound system, and various customization options through Alpina’s bespoke program. The interior featured Alpina-branded gauges and a unique steering wheel, further differentiating it from the standard BMW 3 Series.
Chassis & Braking
The B3’s chassis was subtly but effectively upgraded compared to the standard 3 Series. Alpina utilized stiffer springs and dampers, along with reinforced anti-roll bars, to improve handling and reduce body roll. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ensured controlled braking even in emergency situations. While the suspension was firmer than the standard 3 Series, it remained comfortable enough for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 3.0i Biturbo Allrad was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its potent performance, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Compared to the standard BMW 335i, the B3 offered significantly more power and a more exclusive feel. Against the higher-performance BMW M3, the B3 provided a different character – prioritizing effortless power delivery and all-weather capability over the M3’s more track-focused approach. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was reasonable for a high-performance vehicle of this type, averaging around 23.1 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although the complex twin-turbocharged engine required diligent maintenance.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 (E90) 3.0i Biturbo Allrad remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and inspection of the turbochargers and cooling system. The Switch-Tronic transmission also requires periodic servicing. Today, these cars represent a unique blend of German engineering and Alpina’s signature touch, offering a compelling alternative to the more mainstream performance sedans of the era.
