B10 V8 - F3 [E39] #440; FE86-60R3 - ALPINA Green/N8SN - Sand Beige Nappa Leather; 1998_S; £5.3k; 172k; Private
-Alpina B10 4.6V8 Car #440 Reg: S880ORU
Not for the feint of heart, this is a restoration project for those who know what they are doing, and how to do it. This will be a very in-depth description for good reason - this car needs to go to a good home.
This car is a restoration project purely on the basis of corrosion. It was purchased by the previous owner in “as new” condition but although it has been daily driven, it was parked near the sea. Unfortunately, the sea has done quite a significant amount of damage to the sills and jacking points. However, this is where the woes start and end with this car. Be under no illusions, the rust is bad, the worst I have ever seen on an E39. As such this will not be lifted by a two-post lift, it will require 2x sills and 4x jacking points.
Other problems with the car are a slightly blowing exhaust down-stud where it meets the catalytic converter on the off side (easy peasy fix) , and a gearbox fault with reverse that is pinging it into Trans Failsafe (still have access to all gears, but no manual mode) - Driving wise the car is very good, it pulls well and stops well. We've had her up to 120mph quite happily. The Interior condition is remarkably good. All window blinds work well (including the rear), and the stereo is brilliant. All gauges are working and the sunroof works and doesn't leak.
My best advice if you're serious is send me a PM. The car is located in Suffolk (IP23). Viewings are welcome, as are test drives. I'm also happy to answer specific questions because I know these cars inside out. The *only* reason I am selling this and not restoring it myself is that I've been offered a B12, which is my dream car - and I own 11 other cars - you can't keep them all, so this one is the chosen candidate to leave my fleet.
Notes:
1) The wood trim hanging off isn't broken, it's just a dodgy washer
2) The wheel centre removed in the photo is present and included in the car.
3) The previous misfire in the “expressions of interest” post has been fixed.
4) Brand new battery included and fitted