| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1981 |
| Production Years: | 1981 - 1985 discontinued in 1985 |
The Alpina B9 (E28), produced between 1981 and 1985, is a standout luxury performance sedan based on the BMW 5 Series E28 platform. Combining refined German engineering with Alpina's signature high-performance tuning, the B9 (E28) paired class-leading power and driving dynamics with a distinguished and elegant design. As a mid-size sedan, this vehicle offered a perfectly balanced package for enthusiasts seeking both everyday usability and spirited driving.
The Alpina B9 shared the body dimensions typical of the E28 generation, approximately measuring 4665 mm (183.7 inches) in length, 1720 mm (67.7 inches) in width, and around 1410 mm (55.5 inches) in height, depending on exact variant and options. This size positioned it ideally within the mid-size sedan segment, offering comfortable seating for passengers and adequate trunk space while maintaining agile handling characteristics.
Weight hovered around the mid-1400 kg range (approx. 3100 lbs), benefiting from a robust chassis and reinforced suspension tuned by Alpina to enhance driving precision and road feedback. Under the hood, the B9 was known for its modified straight-six engines delivering heightened output compared to standard BMW models, producing a thrilling driving experience that balanced luxury with sportiness.
Inside, the B9 (E28) featured a driver-focused cockpit with quality materials and Alpina-specific details, reinforcing its exclusive character. Advanced for its time, the car retained practicality with sedan seating while standing out as a collectible due to its limited production and unique tuning.
In summary, the Alpina B9 (E28) remains a revered classic luxury sedan from the early 1980s, merging conventional BMW comfort and design with Alpina's renowned performance enhancements. It represents a perfect example of a mid-size sedan that appeals to automotive enthusiasts looking for timeless style paired with spirited driving capabilities.
Discover the standout features that make the 1981 Alpina B9 a leader in its class
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The Alpina B9 (E28) sedan has a length of approximately 4,520 mm (178 inches), a width of around 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), and a height of about 1,400 mm (55 inches). These dimensions place it comfortably within the mid-size sedan category typical of early 1980s luxury sports sedans. Its moderate size contributes to agile handling while providing ample interior space for passengers.
The curb weight of the Alpina B9 (E28) is roughly 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs). This weight offers a balanced distribution that complements the car’s performance-oriented tuning. The relatively light weight, combined with Alpina’s performance enhancements, results in a sedan that feels responsive and nimble, providing both engaging driving dynamics and stability at speed.
Yes, the Alpina B9 (E28) fits comfortably within a standard garage space. Most standard garages accommodate vehicles around 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and up to 6 meters (19.7 feet) long, while the B9 measures approximately 1,690 mm (66.5 inches) wide and 4,520 mm (178 inches) long. This means the B9 leaves sufficient room for opening doors and maneuvering within a conventional residential garage.
The interior of the Alpina B9 (E28) reflects the E28-generation BMW 5 Series platform, offering comfortable seating for five passengers with sufficient legroom and headroom for its class and era. The sedan's trunk provides practical cargo space, estimated around 460 liters (16.2 cubic feet), suitable for everyday use and weekend trips. While not exceptionally spacious by modern standards, the B9 balances driver-focused sporty ambiance with reasonable comfort and utility.
The Alpina B9 (E28) closely mirrors the dimensions of the BMW 5 Series E28, as it is based on this platform. Both cars have similar length, width, and height measurements, making the B9 slightly enhanced in performance but similar in physical footprint. This close dimensional similarity allows Alpina to maintain the E28's balanced proportions, while focusing on mechanical and cosmetic upgrades unique to Alpina.
Since the B9 (E28) was introduced as an Alpina-tuned variant of the BMW 5 Series E28, it is effectively the first performance model in Alpina’s 5 Series line and does not have a direct predecessor under the Alpina B9 name. However, compared to the preceding BMW E12 5 Series generation, the E28 chassis is slightly larger in all dimensions—approximately 80 mm (3.1 inches) longer, wider, and lower—offering improved aerodynamics and interior space, which the Alpina B9 inherits.
The Alpina B9 (E28) competes with early 1980s performance sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz 190E and Audi 5000. Dimensionally, it is similar in length and width but generally sits lower due to its sport-tuned suspension and body enhancements. Performance-wise, the B9 offers a distinctive blend of smooth Alpina-tuned six-cylinder engines and sporty chassis, often outperforming peers in acceleration and handling while maintaining classic European luxury sedan comfort and build quality.
The roof height of the Alpina B9 (E28) is approximately 1,400 mm (55 inches). This height contributes to a balanced cabin environment, offering adequate headroom for average-sized adult passengers while maintaining the sleek, aerodynamic profile characteristic of sport sedans of that period. The height ensures a low center of gravity which, combined with the car’s suspension tuning, supports dynamic driving characteristics.
With a width of about 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), the Alpina B9 (E28) is relatively narrow compared to many modern sedans. This compact width allows for good maneuverability and ease of parking in urban environments, even where spaces may be tight. This width also means the car fits well on narrower roads common in many European cities, enhancing its practicality despite its performance orientation.
The Alpina B9 (E28) is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 70 liters (18.5 US gallons). Depending on driving style and road conditions, this capacity offers a range of roughly 600 to 750 kilometers (373 to 466 miles) on a full tank. This range makes the B9 practical for longer trips without frequent refueling stops, which complements its role as a performance luxury sedan capable of both spirited driving and comfortable cruising.
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