Rare model - 1 of just 200 Impressive original condition 309bhp, 3.4-litre inline six-cylinder engine Recent gearbox overhaul Thousands spent
The Appeal
From its humble beginnings modifying factory carburettors, cylinder heads and crankshafts in order to extract more power from BMW engines, Alpina has developed into a world-renowned company that produces more luxury-orientated versions of BMW cars with an emphasis on individuality and speed, and one such example is the B3 S.
Based upon the Alpina B3 that was developed from BMW's E46 3 Series, the B3 S features a hand-built 3.4-litre inline six-cylinder engine, which is an enlarged and modified version of BMW's S52B32 unit as found in the American E36 M3. So it has plenty of power. 309Bhp to be exact, which is only 30 horsepower short of the M3.
It's less in your face, performance wise, coming across as a tad more refined, more elegant and comfortable, thanks in part to its Alpina specific dampers and Eibach springs. It's also a lot rarer. Alongside some interior tweaks the B3 S also comes with a front chin spoiler and18-inch Alpina alloy wheels.
This 2004 two-door convertible is a prime example in stunning condition and comes with a five-speed automatic gearbox, which is the correct transmission for this car. Remember, it's not an M3, nor should you want it to be. With decent service history it's clear that the car has been cherished and well-maintained and as such presents as a wonderful example of a rare Alpina model – number 168 of just 200 to be precise.image.png3.48 MB
The History and Paperwork
2004 model year
Number 168 of 200 (with interior plaque)
2 keys
Original book pack
V5C present and correct
First registered 16/06/2004
Current owner acquired the vehicle in April 2022
Vendor states that £9,000 has been spent on servicing and recommissioning
Recently gearbox £3,000 gearbox overhaul
Stored in garage
Original service manual showing 13 service stamps up to 101,107 miles
Numerous invoices and receipts for work carried out
Collection of old MOT certificates
MOT until 23/01/2026
101,413 miles
Car will be sold with the original registration plate FH04 PKV
The exterior Alpina Blue paintwork is in great shape with no evidence of any real damage aside from a tiny chip to the driver's side A-pillar and a small blemish on the nearside headlight surround
All shut lines appear straight and the convertible roof looks to fit perfectly
Appears to be a rust-free example
The front spoiler has been repainted
The bonnet carries a few light scratches and a very small dent but is otherwise unmarked
All glasswork is intact and all badges are present and correct
The original Alpina alloy wheels have been refurbished and present impeccably
The vendor states that the Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres are new
The interior is in wonderful condition and shows limited signs of wear throughout
The vendor informs us that the Alpina-embossed black leather heated seats have been refurbished and the driver's booster cushion is new
BMW Wind deflector included
Colour Sat Nav/TV monitor ( but not digital) fully functional
Air con/climate control
Multi function steering wheel
Harmon Kardon CD/stereo/cassette with six disc changer in the boot
Centre arm rest
Retro fitted cup holders
Rear park assist
Bluetooth
First aid kit
The boot space is clean and tidy and comes complete with spare wheel and tyre, jack and factory tool kit
Engine bay presents well with only some light surface rust to the offside strut top to note
The underneath looks to be solid and free from rust
The vendor states that everything is sorted, the engine is stunning and the car sounds fantastic and drives like new
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