The Alpina B8 Gran Coupe (G16), produced from March 2021 to February 2022, represents the pinnacle of high-performance luxury within the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe range. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, takes BMW models and elevates them with bespoke enhancements focusing on powertrain, handling, and exclusivity. The B8 Gran Coupe, specifically the 4.4 V8 (621 hp) xDrive Switch-Tronic variant, is positioned as a supremely powerful and refined grand tourer, offering a unique alternative to the standard BMW M8 Gran Coupe. It builds upon the G16 8 Series platform, sharing its core structure but distinguished by Alpina’s signature styling and engineering touches.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B8 |
| Generation | B8 Gran Coupe (G16) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (621 Hp) xDrive Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | March, 2021 |
| End of production | February, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 270 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 254 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 324 km/h (201.32 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 285.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 367.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 621 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 141.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 2000-5000 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 2000-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N63B44T3 |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 11.1 l (11.73 US qt | 9.77 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 5092 mm (200.47 in.) |
| Width | 1932 mm (76.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1666 mm (65.59 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 395 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 398 mm |
| Front tires | 245/35 ZR21 96Y |
| Rear tires | 285/30 ZR21 100Y |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 21 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B8 Gran Coupe lies Alpina’s meticulously tuned version of the BMW N63B44T3 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. While based on the standard BMW engine, Alpina implements significant modifications, including bespoke turbochargers, intercoolers, and engine management software. These changes result in a power output of 621 horsepower and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, available across a broad rev range of 2000-5000 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and features a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The exhaust system is also unique to Alpina, contributing to both performance and a distinctive sound. The engine is paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, which Alpina has recalibrated for faster shifts and optimized responsiveness. This transmission, marketed as ‘Switch-Tronic’, allows for both automatic and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The B8 Gran Coupe delivers a driving experience that blends effortless power with remarkable composure. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, enabling rapid acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth and decisive gear changes. While not as overtly aggressive as the BMW M8 Gran Coupe, the B8 offers a more refined and luxurious experience, prioritizing comfort and high-speed stability. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling precision. The weight distribution is near perfect, contributing to balanced cornering behavior.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B8 Gran Coupe comes exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments include Alpina-specific leather upholstery with unique stitching patterns, a sports steering wheel, and Alpina-branded interior trim. Standard features also include BMW’s latest iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Optional extras include a variety of customization options, such as bespoke interior color schemes, carbon fiber trim, and upgraded audio systems. The B8 Gran Coupe is positioned as a premium offering, and as such, a high level of luxury and technology is standard.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 Gran Coupe utilizes a modified version of the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe’s chassis, with Alpina-specific suspension tuning. The suspension features adaptive dampers and revised spring rates to optimize both ride comfort and handling. Brakes are upgraded with larger ventilated discs – 395mm at the front and 398mm at the rear – to provide ample stopping power. The braking system also includes ABS and other electronic stability control systems. The car’s steering is precise and well-weighted, providing confident control at all speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B8 Gran Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. It was often positioned as a compelling alternative to the BMW M8 Gran Coupe, offering a more refined and comfortable driving experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, is reasonable for a vehicle of this performance – around 19.8 US mpg combined. Compared to other trims in the 8 Series Gran Coupe lineup, the B8 represents the highest level of performance and luxury, justifying its higher price point. Reliability is expected to be good, given Alpina’s reputation for meticulous engineering and BMW’s underlying build quality.
Legacy
The Alpina B8 Gran Coupe (G16) represents a significant achievement in high-performance grand touring. Its powerful engine, refined chassis, and luxurious interior have established it as a desirable vehicle among enthusiasts. On the used car market, the B8 Gran Coupe holds its value well, reflecting its exclusivity and performance credentials. The N63B44T3 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. The B8 Gran Coupe is likely to be remembered as a standout example of Alpina’s ability to transform already impressive BMW models into something truly special.
