| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1986 |
| Production Years: | 1986 - 1987 discontinued in 1987 |
The Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) is a rare and distinguished classic cabriolet produced between 1986 and 1987, based on the BMW E30 platform. As a specialized, low-production model from Alpina, the C2 Cabrio stands out for offering an exclusive blend of sporty performance and open-air driving pleasure. This model retains much of the dynamic driving traits of the E30 chassis while adding Alpina's unique tuning and styling touches.
Measuring close to the dimensions typical of E30 coupes of its time, the Alpina C2 Cabrio exhibits a compact yet balanced size, which contributed to its agile handling on road and track. Although detailed exact size specs for the C2 Cabrio are limited, the E30 platform on which it is based typically spans a length of approximately 4,325 mm (170.3 inches), a width around 1,660 mm (65.4 inches), and a height near 1,365 mm (53.7 inches). The vehicle’s convertible design brought an open-top driving experience without a significant increase in weight compared to the coupe, keeping the weight distribution favorable for sporty driving dynamics.
Production was limited to around 209 units, making the Alpina C2 Cabrio especially sought after by enthusiasts and collectors today. Its cabriolet body style emphasized both style and performance, delivering a driving experience marked by responsiveness, precise handling, and Alpina's signature tuning sophistication.
Overall, the Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) from 1986 to 1987 remains a classic example of mid-1980s German cabriolet design, merging compact and lightweight dimensions with the performance upgrades Alpina is known for, resulting in a collectible roadster firm in heritage and driving appeal.
Discover the standout features that make the 1986 Alpina C2 Cabrio a leader in its class
Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.
The Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30), produced between 1986 and 1987, measures approximately 4,230 mm (166.5 inches) in length, 1,665 mm (65.6 inches) in width, and about 1,350 mm (53.1 inches) in height. These dimensions give the car an athletic and compact cabriolet profile typical of sporty vehicles from that era. Its relatively modest size makes it agile and well-suited for urban environments while still providing a classic open-top driving experience.
The curb weight of the Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) is around 1,290 kg (2,844 lbs). This relatively light weight for a cabriolet of its time contributes to its nimble handling and spirited driving dynamics. The combination of light weight and Alpina-tuned engine enhancements allows the car to maintain a sporty character with quick acceleration and responsive control, making it a favored choice among enthusiasts looking for a high-performance convertible.
The wheelbase of the Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) measures approximately 2,570 mm (101.2 inches). This moderate wheelbase strikes a balance between agile handling and ride stability. It enhances the vehicle’s cornering abilities and responsiveness without compromising too much on ride comfort. Drivers benefit from this setup through a confident driving experience both on twisting roads and during everyday cruising.
Yes, the Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of about 4.23 meters (166.5 inches) and a width of approximately 1.67 meters (65.6 inches), it occupies a footprint comparable to other compact sports convertibles. Standard residential garages, which typically have door widths around 2.4 to 2.7 meters (94 to 106 inches) and lengths exceeding 5 meters (196 inches), provide ample space for this vehicle, allowing easy parking and access.
The Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) is a two-door roadster designed primarily for the driver and one passenger, typical of classic convertible sports cars. Its cabin offers decent seating comfort with supportive seats tailored for spirited driving, though being a compact vehicle, rear passenger space is minimal or non-existent. Headroom is generally sufficient for average-height adults, especially with the convertible top down, providing an open and airy feel that enhances the driving experience while limiting luggage space due to the compact design.
The Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30), produced from 1986 to 1987, is based on the BMW E30 platform, similar to the predecessor C2 models. While overall dimensions remained consistent with the BMW E30 base chassis, the Cabrio variant distinguished itself with a slightly altered structure to accommodate the convertible roof mechanism. This resulted in marginally different weight distribution but not significant changes in external dimensions. Thus, it maintained the compact sports car dimensions of the predecessor while delivering a different open-top experience.
Compared to contemporaneous mid-1980s convertible sports cars like the Mercedes-Benz 190E Cabriolet or the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, the Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) is slightly smaller and lighter. Its compact dimensions (4.23 m length and 1.67 m width) and classic roadster styling emphasized agility and driver engagement. While Mercedes offered a more luxury-oriented convertible and Porsche focused on a high-performance sports coupe experience, the Alpina C2 Cabrio positioned itself as an exclusive, performance-tuned alternative combining sportiness with distinctive Alpina craftsmanship.
The Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) has a fuel tank capacity of approximately 55 liters (14.5 US gallons). With an average fuel consumption ranging around 10-12 liters per 100 kilometers (20 to 24 miles per gallon), this capacity allows for a driving range of roughly 450 to 550 kilometers (280 to 340 miles) on a full tank depending on driving style and conditions. The fuel range is sufficient for typical daily driving and longer weekend trips, balancing sporty performance with practical usability.
The Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) featured several performance-oriented upgrades over the standard BMW E30 Cabriolet. Alpina tuned the engine for enhanced power output and responsiveness, often involving changes to the intake, exhaust, and engine management systems. Suspension components were refined for improved handling, and Alpina’s distinctive aesthetic touches such as unique wheels, aerodynamic body kits, and luxurious interior appointments distinguished it from the factory version. These enhancements resulted in a more exclusive, driver-focused convertible that combined Alpina's celebrated performance ethos with the classic E30 cabriolet charm.
With a width of about 1,665 mm (65.6 inches), the Alpina C2 Cabrio (E30) is relatively narrow compared to many modern vehicles, making it easier to navigate through tight city streets and park in confined spaces. This compact width allows the driver to access narrower parking spots that might be challenging for wider cars. Coupled with its responsive steering and moderate overall size, the car is well-suited for urban environments where maneuverability is essential.
Alpina