1993 Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) is approximately 1450 kg (3197 lbs), while its maximum allowable weight is around 1895 kg (4179 lbs). The relatively low curb weight contributes to nimble handling and spirited performance, allowing for agile cornering and responsive driving dynamics typical of this sporty convertible.

The Alpina B3 Cabrio offers a luggage capacity of 230 liters (8.1 cubic feet). While this is modest compared to larger hardtop sedans, it is quite adequate for a convertible in the compact executive class, suitable for weekend trips and light luggage, balancing practicality with the sporty open-top experience.

This generation comes equipped with 17-inch rims paired with tires sized 235/40 R17 at the front and 265/35 R17 at the rear. These dimensions enhance grip, stability, and handling precision, providing a sporty yet comfortable ride. The staggered setup with wider rear tires helps in delivering better traction and balance, especially during spirited cornering.

With a length of 4433 mm (174.5 inches), width of 1710 mm (67.3 inches), and height of 1328 mm (52.3 inches), the Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) should fit comfortably within a standard residential garage, which typically ranges around 6 meters (19.7 feet) in length and 3 meters (9.8 feet) in width. Its compact dimensions make maneuvering and parking convenient in most home garages.

The Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) is based on the BMW E36 platform, and when compared to its predecessor, the E30-based B3 Cabrio, the E36 version is slightly longer, wider, and lower, reflecting design advancements and improved aerodynamics. While exact predecessor dimensions vary, the E36 offers a more modern and sporty stance with marginal size increases for enhanced comfort and performance.

The Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) shares size similarities with contemporaries like the Mercedes-Benz SLK and Audi Cabriolet of the mid-1990s. While slightly more compact in width compared to some SLK variants, its length and height are comparable. The B3's sports-oriented stance and specific tuning distinguish it, although the overall dimensions place it firmly within the compact luxury convertible segment.

Standing at 1328 mm (52.3 inches), the Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) has a relatively low height, which contributes to a sporty driving position and better aerodynamics. This low profile reduces wind resistance and promotes stability at higher speeds but may slightly limit outward visibility compared to taller vehicles. The convertible design, however, offers an open-air experience that enhances overall visibility when the top is down.

The Alpina B3 Cabrio measures 1710 mm (67.3 inches) in width and 4433 mm (174.5 inches) in length. These dimensions create a compact yet elegant footprint, allowing for an intimate cabin space that’s typical of a luxury roadster. The width provides good shoulder room for the driver and passenger, while the length ensures balanced handling and a refined road presence distinctive of Alpina models.

With a curb weight of 1450 kg (3197 lbs) and a maximum weight limit of 1895 kg (4179 lbs), the Alpina B3 Cabrio (E36) strikes a balance between solid road feel and responsive handling. The moderate weight contributes to agility, enabling sharp cornering and precise steering response. Furthermore, its weight contributes positively to fuel efficiency for a sporty convertible of its market segment and era.