BMW ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo

I had the enviable opportunity to be invited to test drive a few Alpina models a couple of days ago. The three models I had the pleasure of driving were (in order) the B3 biturbo, the D5 biturbo, and the B7 biturbo. While I would love to give in-depth reviews for each of these three models, time is an issue, and I simply wouldn't be able to do justice with three separate reviews. So what I'll do is give a full review of the B7, which is the one I liked the best of the three. I may mention the other models I tested in a short review on a forum post.

I was intrigued by the B7, more so than the B3 or B5/D5 biturbos simply because there is no equivalent "M7" model; nor will there ever be, in all likelihood. That makes a high performance Alpina 7-series all the more special.

Exterior styling:

The car that I drove was the short wheelbase version. Its length is just a bit over 18cm longer than my F10 M5, which means it doesn't (at first glance) look noticeably longer than the 5-er unless the two are parked cheek by jowl . The long wheelbase version can be imported by special order, but that will add a significant chunk of change to an already hefty price tag (see later).

The exterior is absolutely stunning. Alpina is all about the little details, and they certainly haven't skimped here. It's all there, from the understated-but-purposeful rear spoiler to the trademark Alpina rims with more spokes than I can count up to, to the subtle decals at the sides of the doors. It's a stunning car, no question.

Interior:

And the magic keeps going strong when you step inside. When you first open the doors, you are greeted by that beautiful blue-lit sill with the "B7 logo". The leather is plush, and the faux wood finish is luscious (you can get real wood on special request, but again, be prepared to be free with the moolah). Taken separately, the steering wheel (with the Alpina crest and the green stitching), the dials, the upholstery, etc. are small details. But they add up to something greater than the whole - a truly sublime experience that tells you immediately you're in something really special.