1987 Alpina B3 (E30) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Alpina B3 (E30) sedan generally ranges between 1,230 and 1,300 kilograms (2,711 to 2,866 pounds), depending on equipment and production variations. This weight was quite competitive for a sporty compact sedan in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Thanks to its relatively light chassis and the tuned inline-six engine, the B3 (E30) delivered excellent performance without excessive mass. This balance improves acceleration, braking, and handling compared to heavier luxury sedans, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who sought both sportiness and efficiency.

The wheelbase of the Alpina B3 (E30) is approximately 2,570 mm (101.2 inches). This length strikes a good compromise between handling agility and ride comfort. A shorter wheelbase often results in a more responsive and nimble driving experience but may compromise ride smoothness. Conversely, a longer wheelbase provides a more stable and comfortable ride, especially at higher speeds. The B3's mid-length wheelbase offered a balanced dynamic, contributing to its reputation as a sporty yet practical sedan that could handle twisty roads with confidence while maintaining comfort on longer journeys.

A standard residential garage typically measures around 2,400 to 2,700 mm (94.5 to 106.3 inches) in width and about 5,500 mm (216.5 inches) in length. Given the Alpina B3 (E30) sedan's width of approximately 1,635 mm (64.4 inches) and length of 4,320 mm (170.1 inches), it fits comfortably within these dimensions, leaving plenty of room for opening doors and maneuvering. Its height of 1,360 mm (53.5 inches) is well under the typical garage door height, so clearance is not an issue. Overall, parking the B3 (E30) in a standard garage is convenient and hassle-free.

The Alpina B3 (E30) offers seating for five occupants across a traditional sedan layout, with a spacious front row and reasonably comfortable rear seats. While its compact exterior dimensions might suggest limited interior space, the well-thought-out packaging ensures adequate headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for average-sized adults. In comparison to similar compact executive sedans of its time, the B3 (E30) provided a good balance of comfort and driver engagement. However, taller passengers might find rear legroom a bit tight on longer journeys. Cargo capacity, typical for the segment, is sufficient for daily use but less generous than larger executive models.

The Alpina B3 (E30) sedan is equipped with a fuel tank capacity around 61 liters (approximately 16.1 US gallons). Considering the engine tuning focused on sporty performance while maintaining reasonable efficiency, the car generally achieved fuel consumption rates typical of sporty sedans in the late 1980s. With mixed driving conditions, this capacity provides a respectable driving range of roughly 500 to 600 kilometers (310 to 373 miles) per full tank. This range makes it practical for both daily commuting and longer trips without excessive stops for refueling.

The Alpina B3 (E30) is a specialized performance version of the BMW E30 3 Series, sharing much of its basic structure but with notable modifications. Dimensionally, the B3 closely mirrors the standard E30 sedan with similar length (4,320 mm) and width (1,635 mm); however, Alpina's unique aerodynamic body kits and subtle styling cues give it distinct looks and slightly altered dimensions due to front and rear spoilers. Mechanically, the B3 features an enhanced 3.2-liter inline-six engine with tuned power delivery, suspension upgrades, and improved brakes. These modifications result in sharper performance and handling compared to its predecessor or base BMW E30 models, while keeping the core chassis and size intact.

When compared with peer sporty sedans of the late 1980s such as the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 or the Audi 80 quattro, the Alpina B3 (E30) stands out in both dimensions and performance. Dimensionally, the B3's length of 4,320 mm (170.1 inches) and width of 1,635 mm (64.4 inches) is competitive, often slightly more compact than some German rivals which favored a slightly larger stance. On the performance side, Alpina's engine tuning elevated the 3.2-liter inline-six, producing higher horsepower and torque, resulting in brisk acceleration and agile handling that many rivals struggled to match. It combines compactness with a sporty character, appealing to enthusiasts wanting a balance of everyday usability and thrilling driving.

The Alpina B3 (E30) sedan has an overall height of approximately 1,360 mm (53.5 inches), which is fairly low-profile for improved aerodynamics and sporty aesthetics. Ground clearance is typically around 140 mm to 150 mm (5.5 to 5.9 inches), equivalent to that of many sports sedans of its class and era. This relatively low ride height and modest clearance contribute to lower center of gravity, enhancing cornering stability and reducing body roll. While it provides an engaging driving feel, the lower clearance may require caution on rough roads or speed bumps, where scraping could be a concern. Overall, these dimensions support a dynamic but comfortable driving experience.

The front track width of the Alpina B3 (E30) measures approximately 1,385 mm (54.5 inches), while the rear track width is slightly narrower at around 1,365 mm (53.7 inches). These track widths offer a stable platform that enhances the car's road-holding capabilities, contributing to precise steering and balanced handling characteristics. The wider front track aids in improved front-end grip and turn-in response, while the rear track ensures stability under acceleration and cornering. Alpina's slight suspension tuning and these track dimensions collectively create a driving experience that is both sporty and confidence-inspiring for enthusiasts seeking agility without compromising comfort.