BMW Alpina B6 2.8

The B6 2.8 was not a tuning package but a standalone automobile — Alpina has been a recognised manufacturer since January 1978. Compared with the strongest production E21, the 323i, almost everything behind the bodywork differs: the large M30 six-cylinder instead of the M20, the Getrag five-speed gearbox instead of the four-speed, Bilstein gas-pressure dampers with shorter, firmer springs from Ahle, internally vented and drilled brake discs at the front, 15-inch Alpina wheels in 6 inches at the front and 7 inches at the rear (195/50 and 205/50), plus front and rear spoilers. Inside: Recaro seats, Momo leather steering wheel and instruments with the typical red needles. The decal set in gold or silver was optional — many B6 carry it, but it was never mandatory.

Alpina took only the base from the 528i. The combustion chambers were reworked, compression increased, forged Mahle pistons replaced the standard parts — and the injection came as a completely new system from Zenith-Pierburg. This system is today one of the most important authenticity features of a B6 2.8. With the second stage from August 1981, output rose from 200 to 218 PS; the performance figures (tests down to 6.9 seconds to 100) made the B6 the fastest 3 Series of its time — years before BMW itself offered a six-cylinder sports version in the 3 Series.