Alpina B10 V8

Alpina has often managed to outpace BMW — and the same goes for the B10 V8, based on the BMW 5 Series E39. We’re not even just talking about performance here, but rather about timing. While petrolheads had to wait until September 1998 for the M5, Alpina had already launched a true flagship model in 1997 with the B10 V8. The 4.6-liter V8 would later be further refined and upgraded, and this exact version is now available at Prins. With 347 hp, the B10 was eventually surpassed by the later M5 — but the damage had already been done: not BMW’s Motorsport division, but their former in-house tuner Alpina had developed the best drivetrain for the E39 5 Series. Even BMW’s M Division had to admit as much — not long after, they approached Alpina to "borrow" their technology for the new X5. Talk about a role reversal…

Today, Alpina holds official manufacturer status — and rightfully so. Just as justified is your interest in this well-maintained example, featuring the original Alpina striping and various desirable options such as heated leather seats with memory function, navigation, a tilt/slide sunroof, and even an integrated car phone. Give us a call to schedule a viewing!

History
Alpina is known for keeping production numbers extremely low — which of course enhances exclusivity. The same applies to this B10 4.6 V8: the most powerful version of the pre-facelift series. With just over 1,000 units built, the chance of encountering one on public roads is quite slim. And yet, by Alpina standards, that number is relatively high — a testament to the extraordinary popularity of this particular model. It’s another signal that its value may well increase over time. Speaking of collectables: a previous owner sold off several of his cars in 2023 to make room for his new dream — a Ferrari 458 Spider. Wondering why anyone would part ways with such a rarity as the Alpina B10 4.6 V8?

Technically, B10 number 664 is also a great buy: in 2020, an official Alpina dealer performed a comprehensive inspection and major maintenance after this German super sedan was imported to the Netherlands. Originally delivered in Germany, the car spent a brief period in the UK (hence the mileage counter in miles), before being warmly welcomed in the automotive heart of Europe — Italy. In 2023, we sold the car to a loyal client and collector, who has now traded it back in.

Exterior
Alpina’s decision to focus on a comfortable executive sedan may be surprising — but it makes perfect sense. After all, the BMW 5 Series is ideally suited for daily use. Unlike the M Performance division, which sometimes compromises comfort for sportiness, Alpina retained the limousine’s comfort and simply enhanced it. They found the perfect balance between refinement and performance — and that comes through clearly in the B10’s appearance. Aside from the iconic multi-spoke wheels, subtle sport exhaust, front lip spoiler, and side skirts, the base BMW recipe remains largely untouched. Even the color scheme is kept elegant: black metallic.

Okay, the gold striping and lettering do make a bold contrast and will tell even the untrained eye that this isn’t just another 5 Series. But still — compared to the M5 with its more aggressive spoilers and skirts, the B10 comes across as much more understated. And that’s exactly what gives it so much class.

Interior
The interior is, if anything, even more elegant. You sit on heated black leather sport seats that offer ample support without sacrificing comfort. A memory function ensures the electric driver’s seat returns to your preferred position automatically. There’s plenty of walnut wood trim, and Alpina’s attention to detail is evident throughout. The leather steering wheel features blue and green stitching — a clear nod to the brand’s identity — and the signature Alpina badges. Notice the up/down arrows too…

The wide center console houses a navigation screen and a button cluster, while the equally broad tunnel console includes a center armrest with a built-in car phone. Back to the ’80s/’90s! A special touch is the plaque on the headliner displaying the car’s production number — in case you momentarily forgot how special this collector’s item really is. Just behind it, Alpina fitted a power-operated glass tilt/slide sunroof. Don’t want to be distracted by sunlight? There’s a sliding cover for that.

Technology & Performance
The BMW 5 Series E39 was a clear benchmark in its class, standing head and shoulders above the competition in terms of handling, build quality, and safety. At the time, neither Mercedes nor Audi could hold a candle to what may be the best 5 Series ever built. That means the base of the Alpina B10 V8 is already exceptional.

Still, this former tuning house managed to raise the bar even further. This performance-focused limousine runs incredibly smoothly; the 347 hp V8 delivers an explosion of power even at low RPMs — unlike the M5. The refined shifting also makes Alpina’s Switchtronic automatic feel far smoother than BMW’s own Steptronic system. You’ll barely have to try to hit 0–100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. And the top speed? 262 km/h — faster than the electronically limited M-version.

The 4.6-liter, 32-valve V8 is a beast of an engine that’s built to last. Who will be the next lucky one to enjoy it to the fullest?

Kind regards,
Team Prins