1999 Alpina B3 Touring (E46) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Alpina B3 Touring (E46) weighs between 1525 and 1630 kilograms (approximately 3362 to 3595 pounds) at curb weight, with a maximum permissible weight ranging from 2065 to 2130 kilograms (around 4554 to 4696 pounds). The relatively moderate weight for a performance station wagon contributes to its nimble handling and dynamic driving characteristics. Being heavier than a typical compact car due to its reinforced structure and luxury features, the B3 still manages an excellent power-to-weight ratio thanks to Alpina's tuning of the engine and chassis. The weight is well-distributed, enhancing stability and responsiveness, especially in spirited driving conditions.

The Alpina B3 Touring (E46) offers a generous luggage capacity of 435 liters (15.3 cubic feet) with the rear seats up, which is spacious enough for typical daily needs like groceries, luggage for trips, or sports equipment. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space significantly increases to 1345 liters (47.5 cubic feet), allowing for larger items or additional luggage. This versatility makes the B3 Touring an excellent blend of performance car and practical station wagon, ideal for families or individuals needing extra storage without sacrificing sporty characteristics.

Yes, the Alpina B3 Touring (E46) fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of 4478 mm (176.2 inches), a width of 1739 mm (68.5 inches), and a height of 1409 mm (55.5 inches), it stays well within typical garage size limits. Most standard residential garages have a width of about 2.4 to 3 meters and a length of about 5 to 6 meters, which accommodates the B3 Touring without issue. Its comparatively moderate width also makes it easier to park without risking damage to doors or surrounding items. Overall, the car's dimensions ensure easy home parking and storage.

The Alpina B3 Touring (E46), based on the E46 BMW 3 Series Touring, generally maintains similar exterior dimensions to its BMW 3 Series Touring predecessor (the E36 generation). The E46 is slightly longer and wider than the earlier E36 Touring, with the B3 version retaining the E46 platform’s length of 4478 mm (176.2 inches) versus the E36’s roughly 4400 mm (173.2 inches). This slight size increase brought improved interior space and better proportions. The Alpina B3 version adds luxury and performance components without significantly altering size but benefits from the E46’s slightly more modern chassis and handling improvements compared to the E36.

The Alpina B3 Touring (E46) typically rides on distinctive Alpina rims sized 8J x 18 and 9J x 18 inches, equipped with tires sized either 225/40 ZR18 or 255/35 ZR18. These wider and larger wheels compared to standard BMW 3 Series tires enhance grip and cornering capabilities, contributing to sharper handling and improved stability at higher speeds. The low-profile tires also ensure better road feel and responsiveness, essential for the car’s sporting nature. Visually, the signature Alpina multi-spoke rims add a unique aesthetic touch, blending classic styling with an aggressive, performance-oriented stance.

Inside, the Alpina B3 Touring (E46) offers comfortable seating for five passengers, with good headroom and legroom attributed to its 1409 mm (55.5 inches) height. The E46 chassis was known for a well-proportioned cabin that strikes a balance between driver-focused ergonomics and passenger comfort. Compared to other station wagons from the early 2000s, the B3 Touring provides a slightly sportier ambiance but does not compromise passenger space. Rear passengers enjoy adequate room for medium distances, while the front seats offer excellent support, reflecting Alpina’s focus on blending performance with everyday usability.

The Alpina B3 Touring (E46) competes well against performance wagons like the Audi RS4 Avant and Mercedes C55 AMG Estate from the same period. Size-wise, the B3 Touring's length of 4478 mm and luggage capacity of 435 liters with seats up are competitive; it offers a practical cargo volume that matches or slightly exceeds rivals. Its width of 1739 mm is on the narrower side compared to some competitors, making it more agile in urban settings. Overall, its combination of sportiness, luxury, and usable space puts it among the top-tier performance wagons of the early 2000s.

The Alpina B3 Touring (E46) distinguishes itself through extensive tuning both in performance and aesthetics. Under the hood, Alpina enhances the engine for greater power and torque compared to the standard BMW 3 Series Touring, resulting in sharper acceleration and a sportier driving experience. The suspension is tuned for improved handling, blending comfort and agility. Distinctive Alpina design elements like unique wheels, aerodynamic body modifications, and exclusive interior trim (often including Alpina logos, wood veneers, and bespoke upholstery) set it apart visually and experientially. This combination positions the B3 Touring as a high-performance, luxurious alternative in the 3 Series Touring lineup.

Beyond the standard BMW 3 Series Touring equipment, the Alpina B3 Touring (E46) offers a range of bespoke features that cater to enthusiasts seeking exclusivity and performance. These include a modified high-performance engine with upgraded internals for more power, an Alpina-specific suspension setup for precise handling, and aerodynamic enhancements to aid stability. Inside, the car is outfitted with premium Alpina touches such as exclusive leather upholstery, unique Alpina steering wheel and shift knob, and distinctive wood trims. The wheels and tires are custom-designed highlighting Alpina’s attention to detail. Altogether, these changes create a car that feels more refined, exclusive, and thrilling than its BMW counterpart.