2002 BMW Alpina B10 V8 S
Price - £39,845
Year - 2002
Mileage - 65,425 miles
Unlike conventional tuning companies, Alpina occupies a unique position in automotive history. Recognised as an independent manufacturer, Alpina has spent more than half a century creating its own interpretation of BMW's finest models, blending enhanced performance with exclusivity, craftsmanship and long-distance refinement. Rather than pursuing outright aggression, Alpina's philosophy has always centred on effortless speed, understated elegance and engineering depth.
Few cars embody that philosophy better than the Alpina B10. Based on BMW's legendary E39 5 Series, the B10 became one of Alpina's most successful modern models, with more than 1,300 examples produced throughout its lifecycle. Yet as the E39 era drew to a close, competition in the super-saloon segment intensified, and the standard B10's 347 bhp, delivered by Alpina's bespoke 4.6-litre V8, was no longer quite enough to sit at the very top of the class.
For the final year of production, Alpina responded in emphatic fashion. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the B10 V8 S represented the ultimate evolution of the model, with Alpina quite literally pulling out all the stops. The "S" designation was a deliberate nod to Alpina's historic line of high-performance specials, recalling celebrated models such as the B7 S Turbo and signifying something far more focused and exclusive than the standard car.
While over 1,300 examples of the Alpina B10 were produced, only 150 B10 V8 S models were built worldwide. Of those, just 49 were produced in right-hand drive, with it believed that only 42 examples were supplied new to the United Kingdom. Today, the B10 V8 S stands as one of the rarest and most desirable modern Alpinas, combining genuine exclusivity with exceptional usability and performance.
The V8 S was far more than simply a B10 with a larger engine. Alpina extensively re-engineered the powertrain, increasing capacity to 4,837cc and introducing a host of internal modifications, resulting in 375 bhp and 510 Nm of torque. The latter figure comfortably exceeded that of the contemporary E39 M5, delivering the effortless surge of performance for which Alpina became renowned. Performance was formidable, with 0-62 mph achieved in just 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 177 mph.
The engineering enhancements extended well beyond the engine bay. The V8 S received Alpina's iconic 19-inch Classic alloy wheels with hidden tyre valves, uprated suspension, larger 360 mm drilled front brake discs with Brembo four-piston calipers finished in Alpina Blue, and subtle aerodynamic revisions including a dedicated rear spoiler to improve high-speed stability. The result was a car capable of covering vast distances at remarkable speed while retaining the refinement and comfort expected of a luxury saloon.
Offered here is production number 91 of the 150 B10 V8 S models built worldwide and one of the extremely limited number supplied new to the UK.
Finished in special-order Night Blue, this example is complemented by what must rank among the most attractive interior specifications fitted to any B10 V8 S. The cabin is trimmed in full Beige Nappa leather and enhanced by Alpina's signature Blue detailing, including contrasting piping and the distinctive Alpina seat inserts to both the front and rear seats. Combined with the Anthracite headlining and beautiful Myrtle wood veneers, the result is an interior that perfectly captures Alpina's unique blend of luxury, craftsmanship and understated exclusivity.
More than two decades after it left Buchloe, the cabin remains a wonderful place to spend time. The elegant colour combination, handcrafted details and exceptional quality of materials create an atmosphere that feels distinctly more bespoke than a contemporary BMW. It serves as a reminder that the B10 V8 S was conceived not merely as a high-performance saloon, but as a true grand tourer capable of covering vast distances in exceptional comfort.
The specification is equally impressive, featuring dual-zone climate control, an electric rear sunblind, voice control system, HiFi speaker system, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control and BMW satellite navigation.
The car remains highly original throughout, with the sole modification being a Bluetooth audio interface replacing the factory six-disc CD changer. Importantly, the original CD changer is included with the sale, allowing the car to be returned to its original specification if required.
Production number 91 of just 150 examples built worldwide, this UK-supplied car has covered only 65,000 miles from new and has been carefully preserved by just two owners throughout its life. Combining exceptional rarity with outstanding provenance, it represents an increasingly scarce opportunity to acquire one of Alpina's most celebrated modern creations.
Widely regarded as the ultimate Alpina interpretation of the E39 platform, the B10 V8 S combines rarity, performance, craftsmanship and understated presence in a way few modern performance saloons can match. For many enthusiasts and collectors, it represents the perfect expression of the Alpina philosophy, and production number 91 stands as a particularly compelling example of this landmark model.
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