Beginning production in November 1978, the Alpina B6 2.8 was based on the BMW 323i—chassis code E21—and featured numerous performance upgrades carried out by the Bavarian tuner. Under the hood, the 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine received forged Mahle pistons, modified combustion chambers, and a higher compression ratio, while a Zenith-Pierburg-DL fuel-injection system further aided in boosting both power and fuel efficiency. This smooth-revving, 200-brake-horsepower engine was then mated to a Getrag five-speed manual transmission rather than the base 3 Series’ four-speed. Bilstein struts with gas-pressure shocks and shorter, stiffened springs provided more responsive handling. The braking system featured ventilated, drilled discs up front and solid discs at the rear. Meanwhile, front and rear spoilers were more than just cosmetic and improved aerodynamics.

The B6 2.8 offered here is number 51 of just 533 produced from November 1978 through January 1983. It was built in June 1979 and delivered new to Alpina’s official importer for Liechtenstein and Switzerland, Max Heidegger AG in Triesen, Liechtenstein. According to a copy of its build sheet, the car was originally finished in Polaris (060) and was equipped from the factory with power steering, power mirrors, tinted insulating glass, a manually operated sunroof, and a 25-precent locking differential. It has since been refinished in stunning Zypressengrun (Cypress Green) Metallic. Correct Alpina graphics, 20-spoke wheels, and twin exhaust outlets, complete the wonderful period look. Inside the cabin, correct Recaro bucket seats with cloth inserts featuring Alpina’s signature blue and green stripes further enhance the 1970s performance aesthetic. Other authentic Alpina-branded details in the driver-focused interior include the leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel, wood shifter knob, and gauge cluster. Auxiliary gauges and a Bavaria AM/FM cassette stereo inhabit the center console, while an etched plaque inset in the dash reads “B6-051,” testifying to the car’s exclusivity and rarity.

While little is known about the vehicle’s early history, stamps in a copy of an emissions-test document indicate that the car likely remained in Lichtenstein until 1995, after which it appears to have been relocated to Malleray, Switzerland until at least August 1999. Copies of registration documents on file indicate that the car was registered in the Netherlands in November 2011. The consignor acquired it in 2017 and imported the car that year to Switzerland and then to Kuwait in 2020, adding it to an extensive private collection. An invoice dated December 2017 details an annual service, which included replacing the spark plugs, air filter, and fuel filter. Additionally, new belts were fitted, and the brake circuit hydraulics were purged.

An early example of the coveted Alpina BMW, this B6 2.8 represents a major performance improvement over the standard 3 Series of the day. Already a spry sport sedan, the extensive modifications transform the little car into a lively driver’s delight. With so few built, this Alpina will surely occupy a unique position in any garage and stand out at wherever it goes.