Alpina B6 2.8 E21
The world's first high-performance executive compact, outperforming the contemporary Porsche 911.
- Power
- 200 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.9 s
- Top speed
- 140 mph
- Est. value
- $50k–$95k
About the Alpina B6 2.8 E21
The Alpina B6 2.8 was the first road car to be officially recognised under Alpina's status as a manufacturer rather than a tuner. Based on the BMW 3 Series (E21), Alpina replaced the standard 2.3-litre engine with a modified 2.8-litre unit from the 528i, featuring forged Mahle pistons and Zenith-Pierburg fuel injection. It offered performance that rivalled the Porsche 911 of the era, packaged in a discreet two-door saloon body. The B6 2.8 established the Alpina formula of effortless torque, refined suspension tuning, and signature aesthetic touches like the multi-spoke wheels and Deco-set pinstriping.
Alpina B6 2.8 E21 specs
The Alpina B6 2.8 E21 produces 200 bhp (149 kW) and 248 Nm (183 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
| Make | Alpina |
|---|---|
| Model | B6 2.8 |
| Generation | E21 |
| Trim | 2.8 |
| Years | 1978–1983 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 533 built |
| Engine | 2.8-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,788 cc (2.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 200 bhp (149 kW) at 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 248 Nm (183 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.9 s |
| Top speed | 140 mph (225 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,185 kg (2,612 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 169 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 B6 2.8 E21 worth?
A typical Alpina B6 2.8 E21 is estimated to be worth $50,000 – $95,000 (about £37,000 – £71,000).
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 B6 2.8 E21 rarity in CarSpot
The Alpina B6 2.8 E21 is a Legendary card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 81 out of 100. Flagship models and limited runs, typically worth £250,000 or more. A Legendary card is worth 160 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 B6 2.8 E21 fun facts
- At its launch, the B6 2.8 was the fastest accelerating four-seater sedan in the world, reaching 100 km/h in just 7 seconds.
- Only 533 units were produced between 1978 and 1983, making it significantly rarer than the later E30-based Alpina models.
- The B6 2.8 featured a unique progressive spring and Bilstein damper setup that provided better handling than the standard 323i without sacrificing ride quality.
