The station wagon Alpina B10 1997 - 2004 year modification 3.3 MT (280 hp)

Alpina B10: A Timeless German Engineering Masterpiece

The Alpina B10, a station wagon variant of the iconic BMW 5 Series, is a testament to German engineering excellence. Produced between 1997 and 2004, this car combines luxury, performance, and practicality in a way that few vehicles can match. With its 3.3-liter inline-6 petrol engine, rear-wheel drive, and manual transmission, the Alpina B10 is a driver's dream. Its station wagon body type offers ample space, making it a perfect blend of sportiness and functionality.

Performance and Power

Under the hood, the Alpina B10 boasts a 3.3-liter inline-6 petrol engine that delivers an impressive 280 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 335 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. This power allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 256 km/h. The rear-wheel-drive system and 5-speed manual transmission provide a thrilling driving experience, making every journey an adventure. The car's fuel consumption is reasonable for its class, with 14.8 l/100 km in the city, 7.6 l/100 km on the highway, and a combined figure of 10.3 l/100 km.

Design and Dimensions

The Alpina B10's design is both elegant and functional. With a length of 4805 mm, a width of 1800 mm, and a height of 1420 mm, the car offers a spacious interior without compromising on its sporty appearance. The wheelbase of 2830 mm ensures stability and comfort, while the ground clearance of 120 mm makes it suitable for various road conditions. The car's 18-inch wheels, with sizes of 235/40 R18 at the front and 265/35 R18 at the rear, provide excellent grip and handling.

Interior and Practicality

Inside, the Alpina B10 offers a luxurious and comfortable environment. The station wagon body type provides a generous trunk volume, ranging from 410 liters to an impressive 1525 liters when the rear seats are folded down. This makes it an ideal choice for families or those who need extra cargo space. The car's curb weight of 1640 kg and gross weight of 2270 kg ensure a solid and stable ride, while the 70-liter fuel tank capacity allows for long-distance travel without frequent refueling stops.

Suspension and Brakes

The Alpina B10 is equipped with an independent spring suspension system, both at the front and rear, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels provide excellent stopping power, enhancing the car's safety and performance. This combination of advanced suspension and braking systems makes the Alpina B10 a reliable and secure vehicle for both daily commutes and long journeys.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: The Alpina B10 offers a powerful and responsive engine, a luxurious and spacious interior, and excellent handling and braking performance. Its station wagon body type provides ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. The car's timeless design and German engineering ensure long-term reliability and value.
• Cons: The fuel consumption, especially in city driving, is relatively high. The manual transmission, while enjoyable for driving enthusiasts, may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the car's age means that finding replacement parts could be challenging.

Conclusion

The Alpina B10 is a remarkable vehicle that combines performance, luxury, and practicality. Its powerful engine, elegant design, and spacious interior make it a standout choice in its class. While it may have some drawbacks, such as higher fuel consumption and the potential difficulty in finding parts, the overall package is hard to beat. For those seeking a unique and high-performing station wagon, the Alpina B10 is an excellent option that continues to impress even years after its production ended.