1986 BMW 535i Alpina B10 3.5 Sedan

Description

Founded in 1965 by Burkard Bovensiepen, Alpina was a Bavarian-based tuner and race car builder who concentrated exclusively on BMW motor cars, recognised in Germany as a manufacturer in its own right since 1983. With the emphasis on bespoke luxury and high performance, Alpina began building a range of modified BMW road cars in the mid-1970s with its unique (and often complex) model identification, including the 3-Series, 5-Series and 6-Series. By the 1980s, Alpina was competing directly with AMG - and BMW's own M-Sport Division - for the title of the ultimate German super saloons. When BMW launched its second generation BMW 5-Series, codenamed E28, the executive-level model was an entirely new and significantly improved model from the outgoing E12. A superbly engineered sports saloon, the 5-Series featured redesigned suspension both front and rear to give better ride and handling, along with a reworked range of six-cylinder engines with the latest in fuel injection technology from Bosch. The range topping 535i guise, there was a 3.5-litre M30 version of the silk smooth straight six engine developing nearly 220 horsepower and was available in either automatic or five-speed manual form. Improved build quality was another key area of improvement, along with a beautifully designed cabin that set new standards in both ergonomics and passenger comfort. Alpina tranformed the 535i into its own B10 model in 1985, upping power to 261 bhp and torque to 345 Nm. To achieve this boost, both the cylinder head and combustion chambers were redesigned, along with Mahle high compression pistons, a revised camshaft and new exhaust system. The Getrag five-speed gearbox was standard although many B10s were equipped with automatic transmissions for autobahn cruising. The B10 had upgraded brakes, unique 16-inch Alpina rims, stiffer suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and uprated springs. Unique Alpina upholstery, Recaro sports seats, leather steering wheel and gearknob and instruments are fitted inside while exterior enhancements included both front and rear spoilers plus Alpina's signature pinstriping. Alpina claimed a 0-100 km/h time of 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h, putting the B10 firmly in the mid-1980s supercar league. According to Alpina's own figures, a total of 577 were made (which includes its predecessor, the B9).