2003 Alpina B3 3.3 Coupé
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Highlights
One of just 324 RHD B3 3.3 built
Excellent mechanical condition - ready to enjoy
A true enthusiast piece, unmolested and original
The Appeal
Often regarded as “the thinking man’s M-car” Alpina models have always held a certain attraction for BMW enthusiasts, thanks to their ‘under-the-radar’ nature, performance upgrades, heritage and subtle aesthetic tweaks that stand out, but only if you really know what you’re looking for.
Based upon the E46-generation 3-Series, the B3 3.3 was introduced by Alpina in 1999, utilising the block from the previous US-spec E36-generation M3 (S52B32/US) as the basis for the 3.3-litre engine, resulting in a power output of 280bhp, which was sent rearwards through either a ZF manual transmission or an Alpina ‘Switch-tronic’ unit, which was co-developed between ZF and Bosch.
With only 324 examples of the B3 3.3 produced in RHD format for the UK market (of which 90 were coupés) this example is chassis number 257, finished in Blue and with only just over 115,000 miles on the odometer. Presented in excellent mechanical condition and wonderfully original, this is an eminently useable example of the revered B3 3.3 which any Alpina enthusiast would be proud of.
History/Paperwork
- V5 registered keepers document, showing 4 former registered keepers
- This is a trade sale, so the vendor has not registered the car in their name
- Outstanding history folder with stacks of invoices
- Full complement of BMW / Alpina handbooks and manuals
- Stamped service record, comprised of main dealer stamps up to ~100,000 miles, and then specialist (4 stamps) to the current reading of just over 115,000 miles
- Two sets of keys
- Wonderfully original, with no known or obvious modifications fitted to the vehicle
- The vendor will supply the vehicle with a fresh MoT certificate, due to the current one running out on 10-November 2022.
- The most recent service took place at 115,437 miles
The Interior
- Excellent condition throughout
- Wood inlays/details in great condition, with only some light marks noted on the shifter
- Original Alpina floor mats remain with the vehicle, with the driver’s mat exhibiting commensurate wear to the heel pad area
- OE infotainment system in full working order
- Some light wear is visible around the cabin, including to the door cards, outer seat bolsters, door sill protectors and other high-traffic areas, in keeping with the car’s age and mileage
- There is a more noticeable mark on the right-centre of the steering wheel, just outside of the horn boss
- The boot is exceedingly tidy, and the tool kit and jack are present-and-correct
- Up above, the headlining is taut throughout and free of any major stains, whilst the Alpina chassis number plaque is present, showing chassis number 257
- The door seal strip on the driver’s side has separated at the top, and will require attention
- The vendor reports no known faults with any of the systems, gauges or displays
The Exterior
- Finished in the classic Alpina shade of blue, the bodywork and paint on this example remains in very good condition for its age and mileage
- There is no sign of any bodywork damage, mis-aligned panels or indentations, and the vendor is not aware of any accident history
- The paintwork is commensurately worn along the front bumper, Alpina-specific splitter and the rear of the arches, with stone chips and light marks in keeping with the car’s mileage and age
- At the rear, there are a few light marks on the upper edge of the rear bumper, along with a more pronounced scuff on the nearside rear corner
- The fuel filler cap shows a small chip to the leading edge
- The window trims are slightly dulled, but free of any damage
- The model-specific boot spoiler exhibits a few small bubbles underneath the paintwork
- All four wheels are in exceptional condition, with no kerb rash noted
The Mechanicals
- Six-cylinder US-spec M3-based engine, with extensive upgrades from Alpina
- Starts on-the-button with no smoke or untoward behaviours noted during our photo shoot
- Recently serviced
- Switch-tronic transmission in full working order
- The engine bay is tidy and well-presented overall, with no signs of any obvious leaks or issues
- No reported faults from the vendor
- The most recent MoT exam, dated 08 November 2021, shows a first-time pass with no advisory items. A fresh MoT will be put on the vehicle prior to completion of the sale
Summary
Offered for sale in rude mechanical health and in very good aesthetic condition for its age and mileage, this rare and desirable E46-based Alpina B3 3.3 coupé would make a fantastic addition to any BMW or Alpina enthusiast’s collection, or a wonderful daily driver which is suited to both long motorway jaunts and exhilarating B-road blasts.
Notice to bidders
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Vehicle specification
- Year 2003
- Make Alpina
- Model Alpina B3 3.3 Coupe (E46)
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 115,525 Miles
- Engine size 3.3
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Windlesham
- Location Surrey
- Country United Kingdom
10 bids
from 5 bidders
- turner.•••• £12,750 27/11/22
- JT481 £12,500 26/11/22
- busines•••• £12,250 25/11/22
- Simonv6•••• £11,750 23/11/22
- JT481 £10,750 23/11/22
- busines•••• £10,500 23/11/22
- Simonv6•••• £10,000 23/11/22
- JT481 £9,600 21/11/22
- michael•••• £9,400 21/11/22
- JT481 £9,100 20/11/22
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