Alpina B3 Biturbo (E92) long term experiences

[tg]

Hi there, I've done a search but there's relatively little on this topic (perhaps too new?)

Given the reputation the 335i BMW engine has for problems at higher mileages, I wondered whether it would be worthwhile putting all owners' long term experiences of mechanicals, electrics and other foibles onto this thread for ease of reference? I don't know whether for instance the automatic gearbox that Alpina has chosen for this application operates as close to its design tolerances as that of the E46 B3S - would be useful to chart emerging wisdom

Thanks all
tg

[flyboyben]

Hi tg,

Mine is a 2009 with 15k on the clock. I've only owned it for 3 months so can't really comment on the long term aspect. All is well so far The earliest examples are from 2008 so in all likelihood there won't be many pushing too far above 30000 miles.

Ben

[phil]

Hi tg,

Mine is a 2009 with 15k on the clock. I've only owned it for 3 months so can't really comment on the long term aspect. All is well so far The earliest examples are from 2008 so in all likelihood there won't be many pushing too far above 30000 miles.

Ben

Ben
Just realised that's my old coupe your driving how are you enjoying her she is a really great spec car.
Phil

[flyboyben]

Hi Phil,

Yes, she is absolutely fantastic. Everything I want in a car, performance, styling, comfort and subtlety. I picked her up at the beginning of April for the long drive up to Aberdeen, and it was such a pleasure to drive the long distance. I took a detour on some twisty stuff enroute and by the time I got home I knew I had made the right decision!

If I need to I can get the kids in the back and the missus in the front as well so its the perfect family man's car in many ways.

The spec is great. I think Jade Grey on Black Sapphire is a stunning combination, and I must say, I do like the piano black interior (not a fan of wood myself).

Hope you are enjoying the touring!

Ben

[phil]

Ben really glad your pleased great car but I had always fancied a touring. The wood can be a bit take it or leave it and if it had been the proper alpina piano black with inset roundel I might have felt differently.

Tg back to your request having had the e92 & e91 b3 biturbo's the only problem I had was with a failed battery but to be honest I don't do that many miles but I would really recommend them and the b3's look great value at the moment in comparison with the diesel versions and whilst I only average 29mpg for the extra spec and performance you get for your money I think they are a bargain

[Richy_Boy]

The gearbox is perfectly capable of handling the power... 6HP19 I believe.

I'm not so convinced they handle the engine bay heat as well as they could/should though.

Drop Aiders a PM, many people won't speak to you about problems as it's a small community and when they come to sell it might reflect badly onthe car.

Rich

[Peter&Janet]

News to me Ritchie, and it always does long runs. 24000 miles at present, never had an issue of any description, even the tyres last a good time, although admittedly it's how you drive in the end I suppose.

[Richy_Boy]

Ah yeah, long runs are fine.. track days.. maybe not so great.

I don't think many people do track days in their Alpinas though!

Rich

[JEP700]

I cannot really comment on high mileage - I have just had my 2008 B3BTCC serviced and it has just gone past 3,300 miles

However, I did have to have the fuel injectors replaced as there was a recall on them - anyone else had the same ?

Jason

[Sandz]

149k and still sweet. 2009 b3 1/3 made in 2009 and I believe 1/50 made in e92 guise