Question 1

Is Alpina officially BMW?

Accepted Answer

Now yes, after BMW Group acquired Alpina in 2022. Previously, Alpina was officially independent (registered as a manufacturer) but had close working relationships with BMW. The acquisition has been smooth, with Alpina continuing production under BMW ownership while maintaining its distinct identity.

Question 2

What is the difference between Alpina and M?

Accepted Answer

Different focuses. BMW M produces aggressive sport-focused variants prioritizing track performance and dynamic driving. Alpina produces grand-touring refined variants prioritizing luxury and refinement. An Alpina B5 is faster than a base 5-Series but tuned for highway cruising; an M5 is more aggressive on track.

Question 3

Are Alpina cars common in the US?

Accepted Answer

The Alpina B7 and recent Alpina XB7 have been sold through BMW dealers in the United States. Other Alpina models are typically not sold in North America (the Alpina B5 sedan, B8 Gran Coupe). Imported used Alpinas have a small but devoted following in the US.

Question 4

How fast is an Alpina B5?

Accepted Answer

The current Alpina B5 (2018+) makes around 600 horsepower and runs 0-60 in around 3.3 seconds, faster than the contemporary BMW M5 in some configurations. Top speed approaches 200 mph in some variants. The performance is competitive with M cars while maintaining Alpina grand-touring refinement.

Question 5

Why is Alpina pinstripe gold?

Accepted Answer

The gold pinstripe became an Alpina visual signature in the 1970s and has been used consistently. The exact origin is debated; some sources trace it to early Alpina racing cars. The gold pinstripe is now an instantly recognizable Alpina identifier and is an option (sometimes standard, sometimes deletable) on Alpina production cars.

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