The E46 Alpina B3 S from 2003 represents the pinnacle of this generation's lineup, serving as the upgraded, highly sought-after facelift top version. Despite its impressive capabilities, it remains a heavily underrated masterpiece, often overshadowed by its more aggressive BMW M3 sibling. However, it offers a more exclusive, torque-rich grand touring experience. Alpina produced only 142 total examples of the B3 S Coupé, with a small fraction equipped with the rare 6-speed manual gearbox. Compared to sports cars of a similar era like the Porsche 996 or 997 Carrera, the production scale is vastly different. While the Alpina manual coupé was produced in the double or low triple digits worldwide, Porsche manufactured tens of thousands of Carreras, making the 911 more common on the secondary market and commanding a higher modern price. The car is finished in Sapphire Black Metallic and sits on its original Alpina alloy wheels, which are wrapped in tires in good condition. The wheels are in excellent shape with no curb damage, a significant plus given the expense of genuine Alpina wheels. All factory Alpina exterior elements are present, showcasing the signature styling on the E46 coupé body. Key details include the distinct front spoiler, subtle rear lip spoiler, multi-spoke wheels, classic pinstripe decals, and a lower, sportier ride height. The body is completely rust-free, and the underside is in great condition, which is increasingly rare for E46-generation cars. As a late-production facelift model, it features updated styling with modernized headlights, wider kidney grilles, a reshaped front bumper, updated Alpina wheels, and raised side indicators. The front bumper and grille have been freshly repainted, and the car has recently been fitted with new, original BMW headlights, leaving the exterior in excellent condition. Inside, the B3 S features a black leather interior, a desirable and rarer choice for this era, as many Alpinas were specified with cloth upholstery. The cabin is well-equipped with cruise control, heated memory seats, and electric rear quarter windows. Everything functions perfectly, including the ice-cold air conditioning. Subtle bespoke details include Alpina stripes on the floor mats, a blue-backed gauge cluster, and a production plaque mounted on the headliner, creating an inviting and special atmosphere. The drivetrain is based on BMW’s cast-iron S52 inline-six, extensively re-engineered by Buchloe. Displacement was increased to 3.4 liters with custom Mahle pistons, a reworked cylinder head, high-flow intake manifold, bespoke exhaust, and Siemens ECU tuning. This results in 305 horsepower and smooth, linear power delivery with excellent low-end torque. This example features the highly desirable 6-speed Getrag manual gearbox, paired with Alpina’s optimized shift linkage for precise gear changes. The chassis benefits from Alpina’s bespoke suspension setup, including specially tuned springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars, providing a balance between long-distance comfort and sharp handling. Overall, the B3 S offers more mechanical substance than meets the eye. It is a rewarding driver’s car with a lovely exhaust note and a balanced, engaging driving experience.
