Alpina’s alternative take on the outputs of Munich’s most famous manufacturer has long provided the discerning BMW enthusiast with more exclusive options and have been so successful that Alpina have recently been acquired by the mother ship.
This car hails from the mid nineties and showcases the usual Alpina traits: a thoroughly re-worked engine, luxurious interior and an automatic gearbox with manual controls on the steering wheel. One of only 28 made in right hand drive, it has a full history and has seen little use in the last ten years.
If you’re looking for a modern classic that’s capable of both flying under the radar and also raising a smile for the cognoscenti then this is the perfect blend of subtle style and exclusivity. Get your bid in now.3idG2x0LmgPilkE6kGwKF0LE8nVA5ac1d1zxcRNj.jpeg455.18 KB
The History and Paperwork
Registered new 12 January 1996
Options include Alpina wheels with air valve in locking centre hubcap
Full set of main dealer stamps in the service book to 50,000 miles
Independent servicing from 50,000 to 75,000 miles when car was put into storage, in 2012
Head gasket replaced
Rarely used since 2012
Full set of owner’s manuals
Box file of history
Current MOT which has no advisories expires 7 June 2022
To the untrained eye, the cabin of the B3 looks much like that of any other E36. But the Alpina fan will note the softer leather, hand stitched steering wheel with the distinctive gear up and down buttons and additional gauges that front the dashboard.
It’s all very well preserved here, too, with just the expected bolster wear and a little patina to the steering wheel rim. All of the toys are said to be fully functional, including the air conditioning and electric sunroof.
Back in the boot, there’s a full size spare, full set of tools and the original first aid kit, while the trim is just as well preserved as the rest of the interior. Overall, there’s nothing here that will get in the way of enjoying the car.wtetgLyrVwVbgrb91WbumXy7Qrc4B6gGER060dkJ.jpeg198.95 KB
The Exterior
Subtle Arctic silver without Alpina stripes
Alpina body kit
Alpina Wheels
Whoever specified this car originally was clearly in favour of a stealthy approach as, although the Alpina body kit is present and correct, the boxes for the optional stripes and mirrors have been left unticked. The Alpina decal on the front spoiler and the wheels are just enough to mark out the car’s rarity.
The paintwork is said to be in very good shape and the bodywork is all straight save for a very small dent to the nearside rear quarter. Those distinctive Alpina wheels are in very good order and wear tyres with good tread all round.
Underneath, there is an amount of surface corrosion consistent with the car’s age but there was nothing to trouble the MOT tester at the last certificate. Overall, it looks to be a solid and original car.BuDwcBshzXmqlVri3TYDCsFVmkDGKa53bLPVZZ5o.jpeg371.38 KB
The Mechanics
Alpina 3.0 straight six
Five speed automatic with manual controls on the steering wheel
Runs very well
Happily there are no issues to report on the mechanical front. The seller reports that the car starts, runs and drives just as it should and makes a lovely rorty sound from the exhaust. This Alpina is ready to be driven.M9hm7RBPXuCqVlvfQPjeDs6l4VIvRGtOQitDAv3d.jpeg374.54 KB
Summary
A rare and subtle take on BMW’s E36 coupe which has been properly cared for and is ready for its next owner to enjoy.
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