Alpina B6 3.5 S E30
The ultimate E30: Alpina's big-six heart transplanted into the iconic M3 widebody shell.
- Power
- 254 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.4 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $160k–$250k
About the Alpina B6 3.5 S E30
The Alpina B6 3.5 S is one of the rarest and most coveted E30-generation cars ever produced. While the standard BMW M3 used a high-revving four-cylinder engine, Alpina utilised the M3's flared-arch chassis and replaced the powertrain with a torquey 3.5-litre 'Big Six' from the B10. This resulted in a more refined, effortless grand tourer that retained the M3's legendary handling balance while offering significantly more mid-range punch. Only 62 units were hand-built, making it a pinnacle for Alpina collectors.
Alpina B6 3.5 S E30 specs
The Alpina B6 3.5 S E30 produces 254 bhp (189 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Alpina |
|---|---|
| Model | B6 3.5 S |
| Generation | E30 |
| Trim | 3.5 S |
| Years | 1987–1990 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 62 built |
| Engine | 3.5-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,430 cc (3.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 254 bhp (189 kW) at 5,900 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.4 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,270 kg (2,800 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 200 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 3.5 S E30 worth?
A typical Alpina B6 3.5 S E30 is estimated to be worth $160,000 – $250,000 (about £119,000 – £186,000).
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 3.5 S E30 rarity in CarSpot
The Alpina B6 3.5 S E30 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 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 3.5 S E30 fun facts
- The B6 3.5 S was created because Alpina felt the M3's four-cylinder engine lacked the refinement expected of a premium executive express.
- Despite the larger engine, the B6 3.5 S weighed only about 20kg more than a standard M3, thanks to Alpina's extensive use of lightweight components.
- It features a unique single-exit exhaust pipe, which distinguishes it from the twin-pipe setup found on the standard BMW M3.
