OG Alpina B2 Returns to Show M5 Who Pioneered It First | Carscoops

      This is one of the few naturally aspirated Alpina B2s thought to have been produced during the 1970s.

      May 2, 2025, at 19:51

      by Brad Anderson

      The classic Alpina features a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated straight-six engine producing 230 hp.

      As part of a restoration, the vehicle was repainted in Fjord Blue and outfitted with 14-inch wheels.

      Although the car has nearly 93,000 miles on the odometer, the interior remains in pristine condition.

      If you're someone who stops scrolling for a classic BMW, this one truly deserves your attention. Alpina has a rich history of enhancing already outstanding BMWs into something even more extraordinary, with a lineup that includes the iconic C1 and B7 S Turbo, the striking 3.0 CSL “Batmobile,” and more recent high-performance models like the XB7 and D3 S Touring.

      Among these notable vehicles, the 1976 BMW B2 Alpina stands out as a rare and sought-after classic. A fully restored B2 is set to go up for auction at Mecum Auctions, and anyone who appreciates vintage performance sedans should take note. This car occupies an important place in Alpina's history and is often recognized by enthusiasts as the first truly high-performance BMW sedan, well before the M5 emerged.

      Read: New B8 GT Is Alpina’s Most Powerful Car Ever And Final One Before BMW Takes Over

      The B2 began its journey as a BMW E12 528, which was introduced in 1975. Alpina upgraded it with a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated straight-six engine fitted with three double-barrel carburetors, forged pistons, a modified combustion chamber, and a redesigned crankshaft. The outcome was a robust 230 horsepower at 6,750 rpm and 195 lb-ft (265 Nm) of torque at 4,500 rpm. This performance was impressive for the mid-1970s and remains commendable today.

      Mecum Auctions

      While Mecum hasn't provided much detail about the car’s early history, they noted that this B2 underwent a complete rotisserie restoration. As part of the process, it was repainted in Fjord Blue, adorned with blue and green stripes on the front, sides, and rear. It also rests on lightweight 14-inch Alpina wheels fitted with new tires.

      Additionally, the engine, transmission, steering, suspension, and rear axle were rebuilt during the restoration, ensuring this B2 drives as well now as it did when it first left Alpina’s factory.

      Not only are the exterior, engine bay, and undercarriage of the Alpina in impeccable condition, but the interior is also superb, despite the car having 148,936 km (92,544 miles) on the odometer. It features an Alpina instrument cluster, fabric seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and wood accents on the door panels, dashboard, and shifter.

      According to the auction house, this is one of only a few naturally aspirated B2s that Alpina produced back in the day, and it's sure to attract considerable interest at auction. If you’re interested, and let's be honest, it’s difficult not to be, you can view the complete listing on Mecum’s website and get ready with your best poker face. Best of luck.