Alpina B3 E46
The connoisseur's alternative to the M3, blending effortless torque with understated luxury.
- Power
- 280 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.4 s
- Top speed
- 165 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$35k
About the Alpina B3 E46
The E46-generation Alpina B3 3.3 was designed as a high-speed grand tourer rather than a track-focused machine like the contemporary BMW M3. Based on the 328i but heavily modified, its engine features a bespoke block, crankshaft, and pistons to achieve a 3.3-litre displacement. Alpina focused on mid-range torque and refinement, resulting in a car that is often considered more usable on public roads than its M-division sibling. Production was strictly limited, with each car receiving a numbered plaque and signature Alpina styling cues including the 'Deco-set' pinstriping and 20-spoke alloy wheels.
Alpina B3 E46 specs
The Alpina B3 E46 produces 280 bhp (209 kW) and 335 Nm (247 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 165 mph (266 km/h).
| Make | Alpina |
|---|---|
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | E46 |
| Trim | 3.3 |
| Years | 1999–2006 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 1,310 built |
| Engine | 3.3-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,300 cc (3.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 280 bhp (209 kW) at 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 335 Nm (247 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.4 s |
| Top speed | 165 mph (266 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,450 kg (3,197 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 193 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Alpina B3 E46 worth?
A typical Alpina B3 E46 is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $35,000 (about £11,000 – £26,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Alpina B3 E46 rarity in CarSpot
The Alpina B3 E46 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Alpina B3 E46 fun facts
- The B3 3.3 engine is based on the S52B32 block from the US-spec E36 M3, rather than the European M3's S54 engine.
- Alpina offered a 'Switch-Tronic' transmission, which was one of the first systems to allow gear shifts via buttons on the back of the steering wheel.
- Despite being a performance model, the B3 3.3 was praised for its fuel efficiency, capable of nearly 30 mpg on a steady cruise.