First launched in 1978, the B7 Turbo Coupé/1 was Alpina’s first full conversion for the BMW 6 Series platform and featured a 300-brake-horsepower turbocharged variant of BMW’s inline six-cylinder engine sourced from the 630 CS, chassis code E24. Additional improvements included an upgraded Bilstein suspension, ventilated brake discs, a body kit, and signature Alpina multi-spoke wheels.

While Alpina built 130 B7 Turbo Coupés upon BMW’s E24 6 Series chassis, just 20 of those were equipped with catalytic converters and designated the B7 Turbo Coupé/1 Katalysator. These cars produce only 324 horsepower, compared to the 334-horsepower output of their non-catalyzed B7/1 siblings. However, this exclusive 3.5-liter straight six-cylinder configuration offers a different driving experience entirely by generating more torque at lower engine speeds: 383 pound-feet at 2,400 rpm as opposed to 377 pound-feet at 3,000 rpm. Furthermore, this model’s engine boasts a slightly lower compression ratio of 7.45:1 instead of 8.0:1. While normally slightly less power would make a model less desirable, these are very highly sought after in Alpina circles due to their rarity and lower-end grunt, making for more tractable performance.

Alpina documentation shows that this exquisite B7/1 was ordered by a prominent tax attorney from Zurich, Switzerland on 3 April 1987 via Max Heidegger AG, Alpina’s sole distributor to Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Originally specified in the subtle color combination of Diamond Black over Beige Pearl leather, it was further outfitted with air conditioning, an electric sunroof, a five-speed manual transmission, 25-percent locking differential, diver’s-side airbag, and Recaro seats. The car was completely converted by 27 April, and shortly thereafter shipped by Alpina to Heidegger’s premises in Triesen, Liechtenstein.

Having been registered in Switzerland by its first recorded owner on 24 August 1987, entries in its accompanying service booklet testify to a life well-lived, full of regular maintenance appointments and consistent enjoyment through April 1992.

At some point early in its Swiss residency, the car’s interior was retrimmed in its present red leather and fitted with sport seats. The car rides on Alpina multi-spoke wheels and has been outfitted with a Sony CDX-J10 CD player with a trunk-mounted disc changer.

This fantastic Alpina B7 Turbo Coupe/1 is a fine illustration of what Alpina has subsequently become famous for: blistering performance married to elegant, understated looks. A gentleman’s supercar perfect for high-speed touring across Europe, this is a highly compelling alternative for someone looking for 6-Series looks and the performance of something more special than BMW’s usual offerings.