For over five decades now, the Bavarian automotive manufacturer Alpina has worked closely with BMW to produce bespoke vehicles based on the latter’s existing models. At the very top of Alpina’s portfolio at the moment is the BMW Alpina B7 — a more capable and opulent iteration of the already phenomenal BMW 7-Series.
The standard BMW 7-Series is one of the most technologically advanced cars on the market and is a top choice amongst the elite. That said, it’s not the only option in this space, and German rivals like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8 do outshine the 7-Series in certain areas. That’s where the BMW Alpina B7 comes in.
It takes nearly everything that the 7-Series has to offer and cranks it up to 11. The resulting BMW Alpina offering is usually sought by a small circle of connoisseurs – justifiably so, considering the price it demands. Here’s everything you need to know about the BMW Alpina B7:
What’s So Special about a BMW Alpina?
Before we dive into the specifics of the BMW Alpina B7, it’s important to know the ethos behind the manufacturer’s work. Alpina is renowned for its craftsmanship. While supplied by BMW, the engines on its cars are hand-built, and the interiors feature the finest materials.
On the surface, you could compare Alpina’s work to what the BMW M Division does — take a standard BMW model and upgrade it to offer more. However, dive a little deeper, and you’ll find that Alpina and the M Division have two drastically different approaches.
The M Division has BMW’s racing DNA at its core. An M version of a BMW features a different, higher-spec engine, performance-oriented suspension and exhaust, and a few cosmetic changes. On the other hand, Alpina focuses on creating the most luxurious product possible. This process is usually accompanied by a hand-built BMW engine tuned for slightly better performance.
Simply put, the M Division has one goal and one goal only — speed. Think of Alpina as a bespoke machine meant for a more leisurely and luxurious experience.
This is the case with the BMW Alpina B7 as well. While it doesn’t offer as much power or torque as the range-topping BMW M760i, it’s notably more capable than the BMW 750i that it is based on.
BMW Alpina B7 — Model History
The ‘BMW Alpina B7’ moniker first made its debut with the BW 5-Series before transitioning to represent the 7-Series. In 1978, the BMW Alpina B7 Turbo, based on the E12 528i, was introduced. The name then made its way onto models based on the E28 5-Series and the E24 6-Series in the late 1980s before making its way onto the E65 7-Series in 2003.
Since then, the B7 nomenclature has been solely associated with the 7-Series and is immediately recognized as the Alpina-tuned iteration of the car. Here’s a quick look at all the BMW Alpina B7 models produced over the last few decades.
BMW Alpina B7 (E65)
The Alpina B7, based on the BMW E65 7-Series, was first showcased at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. It was available in standard and long-wheelbase variants and cemented its place in the history books as the first Alpina to use a supercharged engine. It was also the first B7 model to make its way to the United States market.
Powertrain
The BMW Alpina B7 (E65) was based on the BMW 745i. It was powered by a modified version of the 4.4 L BMW N62 V8 engine, designated the H1 by Alpina. Compared to a stock N62 unit, the Alpina H1 featured a different engine block, a forged crankshaft, and lower compression, high-strength Mahle pistons.
Thanks to a centrifugal type supercharger and remapped ECU, power figures rose significantly to 493 hp produced between 5,250 and 6,000 rpm. At the same time, peak torque was rated at 515 lb-ft between 4,250 and 5,250 rpm. In comparison, the N62 on the 745i produced 329 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.
The engine was mated to a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission. This system, dubbed Switch Tronic, also offered a manual mode that allowed drivers to change gears using buttons on the back of the steering wheel. Alpina also borrowed the rear axle from the BMW 745d to handle the high torque produced by this engine.
Interior and Exterior
Exterior changes included spoilers at either end (chin and rear), larger 21-inch Alpina wheels, and a premium paint job detailed with Alpina pinstripes. On the inside, Alpina used Lavalina leather for the upholstery and maple wood for the trim. Other changes included the addition of Alpina gauges, badges, and a sports steering wheel.
Another notable hardware update included the larger brake discs from the BMW 760i.
BMW Alpina B7 (F01)
The BMW Alpina B7, based on the F01 7-Series, was produced from 2011 to 2015 and was the second B7 model to be sold in the U.S. market. This version of the car too was available in standard and extended wheelbase versions, based on the BMW 750i and 750Li, respectively.
Powertrain
Like its predecessor, it employed a modified version of the 4.4 L N63 V8 engine; however, in the place of a supercharger, it featured a twin-turbocharger setup sourced from Honeywell.
Other updates to the engine included reinforced cylinder heads, high-performance NGK spark plugs, MAHLE pistons, and a different ECU tune. When it was introduced, the engine produced an impressive 500 hp at 5,500 rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque between 3,000 rpm and 4,750 rpm. In comparison, the standard BMW 750i that it was based on produced 402 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque.
Shortly after the BMW Alpina B7 (F01) was introduced, BMW updated the standard 7-Series and brought improved performance and styling tweaks. So, in 2012, Alpina redesigned its B7 based on the facelifted 7-Series. While it used the same engine, peak output figures were improved to 533 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque, largely thanks to the introduction of BMW’s variable valve timing technology.
The added performance of the engine was accompanied by increased heat levels. To counteract this, Alpina added another radiator, external oil coolers for the engine and transmission, and a 1,000-watt fan borrowed from the V12-powered BMW 760i.
The pre-facelift engine was paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and an 8-speed auto unit became available with the facelifted model. The transmission systems were reinforced with stiffer materials to handle the power and torque produced by the tuned N63 engines.
This was also the first Alpina B7 with the option of BMW’s all-wheel-drive ‘xDrive’ system.
Interior and Exterior
Compared to the standard F01 7-Series, the BMW Alpina B7 featured larger 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels wearing wider tires. This gave the car a drastically more imposing stance. Additionally, Alpina added unique exhaust tips, a front spoiler on a new bumper with brake cooling ducts, and a rear lip spoiler. The manufacturer claimed that the rear spoiler reduced lift by 15 percent while the front spoiler dropped it by a substantial 30 percent.
The interior featured premium Lavalina leather upholstery, different options of wooden trim, an Alpina instrument cluster, and multiple instances of Alpina logos and badges.
Just 1,740 BMW Alpina B7 cars based on the F01 7-Series made their way to our market.
BMW Alpina B7 (G11)
The current generation of the BMW Alpina B7 is based on the outgoing BMW G11 7-Series. It’s one of two Alpina models currently on sale in the North American market. This version of the car, too, is sold as a standard model and a long-wheelbase version, based on the BMW 750i and 750Li, respectively.
As you’d expect, this latest iteration of the BMW Alpina B7 is the most capable and technically advanced iteration of the car ever made. It’s produced alongside the standard BMW 7-Series on the same assembly line in Dingolfing, Germany.
Powertrain
The BMW Alpina B7 (G11) continues to use a modified version of the BMW N63 engine — a 4.4 L twin-turbocharged V8. While the standard BMW 750i and 750Li also employ twin-turbochargers, the ones on the Alpina B7 have larger inlet and outer dimensions, along with new compressors for higher boost pressure.
Other Alpina-specific changes to the engine include higher-strength MAHLE pistons and a new air-to-water intercooler. This intercooler uses short charge-air intake paths and features a redesigned cooling system with larger hoses for unrestricted and optimal flow. The company has also added additional external water and oil coolers to ensure the engine is continually operating at the right temperature.
The modifications were necessary owing to the added performance produced by the reworked engine. Peak output figures are rated at a neck-snapping 608 hp at 6,250 rpm and 590 lb-ft of torque made between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. In comparison, the BMW 750i that it’s based on produces 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.
All this performance results in a car that can propel you to 62 mph (100 kph) in just 3.6 seconds. The top speed is an equally impressive (and unnecessarily high) 205 mph (330 kph). That’s seriously quick for a car that weighs just over 4,800 pounds.
This BMW Alpina B7 also features a sportier exhaust system with two twin tailpipes. Beyond their aesthetic significance, this new exhaust system reduces back pressure and allows drivers to switch between Comfort and Sport mode to adjust exhaust sound.
Changes to the transmission increase closer gear ratios for a more engaging drive. The drive modes — Automatic, Manual, and Sport — have been carried over from the standard 7-Series.
Chassis and Suspension
The BMW Alpina B7 features a two-axle air suspension system that works alongside BMW’s Dynamic Damper Control, Active Roll Stabilization, and Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview. Effectively, these systems work together to scan the road ahead for bumps and undulations and electronically adjust suspension damping accordingly. As you can imagine, the result is an exceptionally smooth ride. Additionally, you can adjust ride height by a total of 35 mm, and the car automatically lowers itself by 15 mm when you switch suspension to the additional Sport+ mode or exceed 140 mph.
Alpina has also equipped the car with the rear-axle steering system that BMW calls Integral Active Steering. The system works by steering the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels at high speed and in the opposite direction at slow speeds for a tighter turning radius.
Interior and Exterior
The visual differences between the standard BMW 7-Series and the BMW Alpina B7 are immediately apparent. For starters, the signature kidney grille is larger on the B7 and is bookended by redesigned headlights. The B7 also features a new front apron with functional air intakes and a spoiler at either end to reduce lift.
You can spec your Alpina B7 in several colorways. The most popular options include the unique Alpina Blue Metallic or Alpina Green Metallic options, but you can also choose from several BMW paint finishes and custom paintwork.
Other changes on the exterior come in the form of 20-inch Alpina multi-spoke alloy wheels shod in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. You also have the option to equip the car with larger 21-inch units. Peek behind the wheels, and you’ll find Brembo brake calipers finished in a beautiful Alpina Blue paint.
Where the Alpina really sets itself apart from the standard 7-Series is on the inside. Nearly everything you can touch and feel inside an Alpina B7 has been handcrafted and assembled with the utmost craftsmanship. The seats feature Lavalina or Tartufo leather upholstery and can be in a color of your choosing. Similarly, the interior trim can be had in Alpina-specific Piano black or Myrtle wood.
How Much Is a BMW Alpina B7 Worth?
A BMW Alpina B7 is produced in limited quantities, and the high-quality levels and bespoke components make for a rather heavy price tag. The BMW Alpina B7 on sale wears a base price tag of $143,795. Factor in the cost of customization or other extras, and you’re bound to see that number rise.
For around $15,000 more, you’ll be able to afford the V12-powered M760i, but it’s worth noting that it’s an entirely different car. It produces more power and torque on paper than the B7, but it’s also heavier with a top speed limiter of 160 mph.
Understandably, the Alpina B7 may not be the right fit even for someone in the elite circle that can afford one. But for the select few that decide to own one, it showers them with more luxury than you could possibly get out of a BMW dealership.
