Alpina has a new BMW M5 alternative that’ll hit 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds.
Iconic BMW fettler Alpina has a new worked-over version of the 5 Series, dubbed the B5 GT. The set-up here is similar to the B5 launched in 2020, with a 4.4-litre V8 providing propulsion, but now the twin-turbo unit pumps out 466kW.
That’s only an increase of 10kW, but torque has gone up by as much as 50Nm, to give a new figure of 850Nm. It’s the most powerful engine Alpina has ever fitted to one of its cars, and it provides a 0-100km/h time of 3.4 seconds in the sedan, and 3.6sec in the Touring wagon. A BMW M5 Competition is quicker still, but the B5 has top-speed bragging rights, with a Vmax of 330km/h for the sedan and 320km/h for the wagon.
The additional performance is thanks to a variety of changes including an optimised air intake duct, reworked exhaust parts, engine software changes and altered turbo boost pressure. “The engineers have placed particular emphasis on responsiveness and power delivery to achieve excellent usability,” Alpina says.
For slowing back down again, Alpina has added four-piston brake calipers squeezing 395mm discs at the front, with floating calipers mated to 398mm rotors at the rear. Also on the chassis front is additional bracing for the front suspension, and new versions of Alpina’s trademark 20-spoke wheels. Here, they’re forged 20-inch items.
To go with the wheels, there are six paint finishes to choose from: Arctic Race Blue, Petrol Mica, Verde British Racing, Chalk, Imola Red and Daytona Violet. Classic Alpina ‘deco-set’ decals are available in three different hues, meanwhile.
Inside, you get Nappa leather as standard, with Merino offered as an option, or for those with especially deep pockets, the services of Alpina’s in-house saddlery can be engaged for something more bespoke. B5 GT lettering can be found embroidered into the headrests of the front sports seats, and there are B5 GT emblems on the floor mats. On the equipment front, a heated steering wheel, Harman Kardon surround system and an anthracite headlining are among the standard-fit highlights.
Production will be limited to 250 units globally.