Alpina B10 3.5 (E28): Spotted

The fast old 5 Series that isn't an M5, here's why you might want an Alpina B10

By Matt Bird / Thursday, 10 December 2015 / Loading comments

As modern BMWs move towards turbocharging, automatic gearboxes and the ruddy 2 Series Active Tourer, it should surprise no one that the older BMWs are becoming ever more desirable. The cars act as reminders of when BMW made the finest sports saloons, cars that were as desirable on the road as they were successful on track. It was a golden age that collectors are now desperately seeking to relive.

Off-centre exhuast very nice

This is one of those BMWs from the glory days. Except it isn't, because it's an Alpina. So it's a BMW made better, which remains quite a prospect. Even today cars like

D3 Bi-Turbo

show that Alpina is still at the top of its game for making BMW products noticeably more enjoyable. This car, based on such an iconic 5 Series, should be sublime.

What the Alpina B10 is not, however, is an M5. Whereas the M car used that legendary M88 3.5-litre straight-six, the B10 used the M30 has found in a 535i. But it was far from a regular engine, Alpina fitting a new cylinder head, cam, exhaust and Mahle pistons to liberate 261hp, with torque rated at 254lb ft. Behind an M5, yes, but certainly enough. New Bilstein dampers were added, along with Alpina wheels and bigger brakes.

Inside there were Alpina dials plus and new wheels and gearknob. It was a subtle cosmetic overhaul, as Alpina conversions typically are, but keen spotters would have known - and still will know - that it's something special.

Alpina advertising 80s style

This

particular B10

isn't on the standard Alpina wheels, but there BBS-style rims work pretty damn well. There aren't many details in the ad, but then 'multiple show winning car' is certainly a good one to include! That and the fact a box of trophies come included in the sale...

Frustratingly no price is currently listed on the ad, but given the 'Also consider' section has cars around £45K that's probably a good place to start. Conveniently enough the same dealer has an M5 at £50K. Hmm. The Alpina is rarer, the M5 faster. The Alpina is (probably) a little more affordable, the M5 arguably more collectable. It's a fascinating comparison. B10 or M5? Or another fast saloon entirely? Your thoughts always welcome!

ALPINA B10 3.5 (E28)
Engine: 3,430cc, inline-six
Transmission: 5-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 261@5,800rpm
Torque (lb ft): 254@4,000rpm
MPG: 25.1
CO2: N/A
First recorded: 1985
Recorded mileage: N/A
Price new: N/A
Yours for: POA