Alpina B10 V8 S

Alpina B10 V8 S

The 1999 Alpina B10 V8 S represents the pinnacle of Alpina's interpretation of the BMW E39 5 Series, a hand-built super sedan that combined supercharged V8 performance with the refinement and build quality expected of a car bearing the Alpina name. While BMW's own M5 used a naturally aspirated V8, Alpina took a different approach, applying a Roots-type supercharger to the 4.6-liter V8 to produce 375 horsepower.

Alpina Burkard Bovensiepen GmbH has been an independent manufacturer recognized by the German government since 1983, meaning that Alpina vehicles receive their own VIN and are not merely modified BMWs. The B10 V8 S was built on the E39 5 Series platform, with each car hand-assembled at Alpina's facility in Buchloe, Bavaria. The attention to detail in the assembly process -- from the hand-stitched leather interior to the individually calibrated engine management -- elevated the B10 V8 S above both the standard 5 Series and the M5 in terms of bespoke craftsmanship.

The supercharged 4.6-liter V8 produced 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, figures that were competitive with the E39 M5's 400 horsepower. However, the supercharger's torque delivery was markedly different from the M5's naturally aspirated power curve. The B10 V8 S produced its torque at lower rpm, creating a more effortless, wave-of-power acceleration character that was ideally suited to high-speed autobahn cruising -- Alpina's primary market.

The B10 V8 S was exclusively paired with a five-speed automatic transmission -- a deliberate choice that reflected Alpina's philosophy that the ideal grand touring car should be as relaxing as possible at speed. The automatic was specially calibrated by Alpina for faster shifts and more responsive kickdown behavior than the standard BMW unit, making it feel more sporting without sacrificing refinement.

Visually, the B10 V8 S was distinguished by Alpina's signature 20-spoke alloy wheels, discreet body modifications including a subtle front lip and rear spoiler, and the characteristic Alpina pinstripes and badging. The interior featured Alpina-specific leather, unique instrument faces, and the Alpina plaque identifying the car's production number. The overall effect was of a car that whispered its capabilities rather than shouting them.

Alpina produced the B10 V8 S in very limited numbers, with estimates suggesting fewer than 100 units worldwide. Today, the car is increasingly recognized by BMW enthusiasts as a compelling alternative to the M5, offering a different interpretation of super sedan performance that prioritizes refinement and exclusivity.