The Alpina B6 Coupe (F13), produced between 2012 and 2015, represents a high-performance grand tourer based on the BMW 6 Series Coupe (F13). Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, meticulously refined the 6 Series, creating a vehicle that blended luxury, performance, and exclusivity. This variant, equipped with the 4.4-liter V8 biturbo engine producing 540 horsepower, occupied the top echelon of the B6 Coupe lineup, offering a significant step up in performance compared to the 6 Series models and other Alpina variants. It was positioned as a direct competitor to high-performance coupes from brands like Porsche and Aston Martin, appealing to drivers seeking a unique and powerful driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B6 |
| Generation | B6 Coupe (F13) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (540 Hp) BITURBO Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 219 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 320 km/h (198.84 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 288.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 390.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 540 Hp @ 5200-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 730 Nm @ 2800-5000 rpm (538.42 lb.-ft. @ 2800-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M2/1 |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Valvetronic |
| Kerb Weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4894 mm (192.68 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1377 mm (54.21 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2855 mm (112.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1594 mm (62.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1637 mm (64.45 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/35 R20 Rear wheel tires: 285/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 20 Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B6 Coupe lies Alpina’s meticulously engineered 4.4-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the M2/1. This engine is based on the BMW N63 engine but features significant modifications by Alpina to enhance performance and durability. These modifications include reinforced pistons, a revised crankshaft, and larger turbochargers. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin-turbocharging with intercooling, delivering a potent 540 horsepower and 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s power delivery is remarkably smooth and linear, thanks to Alpina’s expertise in engine calibration. The engine is paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, branded as “Switch-Tronic.” This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles, providing the driver with a choice between convenience and control. Alpina recalibrated the transmission for quicker shifts and optimized gear ratios to complement the engine’s power characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The B6 Coupe’s driving experience is characterized by a blend of effortless power and refined comfort. The 540 hp engine provides exhilarating acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (198 mph). The Switch-Tronic transmission contributes to this performance by providing seamless gear changes. Compared to the standard BMW 6 Series or lower-powered Alpina variants, the B6 Coupe offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The suspension, while tuned for comfort, provides excellent body control and minimizes roll during cornering. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced and predictable handling characteristic. The exhaust note is also distinctively Alpina, offering a refined yet sporty sound.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina B6 Coupe came generously equipped with standard features, reflecting its premium positioning. Interior appointments included high-quality leather upholstery, Alpina-specific interior trim (often featuring wood or carbon fiber), and sport seats. Standard equipment also included a premium sound system, navigation system, and a host of driver-assistance features. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and various customization options through Alpina’s bespoke program. The interior design was largely based on the BMW 6 Series, but with unique Alpina touches, such as a numbered plaque indicating the car’s production number.
Chassis & Braking
The B6 Coupe’s chassis benefited from Alpina’s expertise in suspension tuning. The suspension system featured a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both with stabilizer bars. Alpina optimized the suspension geometry and damper settings to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ensured safe and controlled braking in various conditions. The car’s weight distribution was carefully balanced to enhance handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B6 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. It was often lauded as a more refined and engaging alternative to the standard BMW 6 Series and other high-performance coupes. Fuel economy, while not a primary focus, was respectable for a vehicle of its performance caliber, achieving around 25 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and quality control. Compared to the BMW M6, the B6 Coupe offered a more comfortable ride and a more relaxed driving experience, while still delivering impressive performance. It also offered a unique and exclusive appeal, thanks to its limited production numbers and bespoke customization options.
Legacy
The Alpina B6 Coupe (F13) remains a sought-after vehicle in the used car market, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. The 4.4-liter V8 engine has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant, provided it has been properly maintained. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of a standard BMW 6 Series, the B6 Coupe’s unique character and performance capabilities justify the expense for many owners. The F13 B6 Coupe represents a high point in Alpina’s history, showcasing the company’s ability to create truly exceptional and desirable automobiles.
