Timeless Masterpieces: The BMW ALPINA B3 GT3
At the time, the BMW ALPINA B3 GT3 was the flagship of the ALPINA model range based on the BMW 3 Series (E9x). This special limited edition celebrated the 2011 title win in the German GT series, the ADAC GT Masters, achieved by drivers Alexandros Margaritis and Dino Lunardi in the BMW ALPINA B6 GT3.
The BMW ALPINA D3, available as a Saloon and Touring version, with a manual gearbox, marked the launch of the BMW 3 Series (E9x) based BMW ALPINA models in 2005. This entry-level model featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that delivered 147 kW (200 hp). This equated to a power output of exactly 100 hp per litre – a pretty good output-displacement ratio for performance petrol engines at the time, but a sensation for a diesel engine. The BMW ALPINA D3 – later available as the D3 Bi-Turbo and, in addition to the Saloon and Touring, also in a Coupé version – proved very popular with customers, resulting in over 2,150 units being produced over its lifecycle, making it the best-selling BMW ALPINA model at the time.
Its petrol-engined counterpart was the BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo, introduced in 2007. In addition to the three body styles listed above – Saloon, Touring and Coupé – each of which was available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, it was also available as a Convertible. The 3.0-litre straight-six engine produced 265 kW (360 hp) and, from 2010 onwards in the B3 S, as much as 294 kW (400 hp). In total, just under 1,500 units of the BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo and B3 S were produced based on the BMW 3 Series E9x range.
The BMW ALPINA B3 GT3, introduced in spring 2012 as the final iteration, was based on the BMW ALPINA B3 S Coupé and was limited to 99 units worldwide. The B3 GT3 combined exceptional characteristics and technical features of the B6 GT3 racing car with classic ALPINA design elements.
The use of a titanium exhaust system developed in collaboration with Akrapovič reduced exhaust back pressure, resulting in an output of 300 kW (408 hp) and 540 Nm of torque.
The KW coilover suspension in the B6 GT3 was a key component in securing victories on a wide variety of racetracks. For the B3 GT3, it was possible to transfer this suspension technology directly from the racetrack to the road. Dampers with multiple manual adjustment options for rebound and compression allowed for extensive customisation of the suspension for road or track use, as well as fine-tuning of the handling to suit personal preference. The unsprung masses had a significant influence on the suspension’s performance. For the first time in ALPINA’s history, 19-inch ALPINA CLASSIC forged wheels were fitted to the BMW ALPINA B3 GT3, resulting in a weight saving of approximately 25% compared to a cast wheel. These could be ordered with MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup+ tyres as an option for track use.
Another highlight were the motorsport derived aerodynamics. A front splitter mounted beneath the front spoiler, in conjunction with so-called ‘dive plates’ located on the sides of the front apron, ensured excellent aerodynamic efficiency at the front of the car. To achieve optimal aerodynamic balance, ALPINA engineers developed a carbon rear wing and a larger rear diffusor. The result, the B3 GT3, was the first BMW ALPINA road car to generate a touch of downforce on front and rear axles.
The connection to motorsport was also unmistakable in the interior. The driver and front passenger took their seats in lightweight Recaro bucket seats with black leather and Alcantara upholstery. A particular highlight for ALPINA enthusiasts were the vertical decorative stripes in the ALPINA racing colours of blue and green, which were incorporated into the front seats and the rear bench.
This timeless masterpiece enjoys a large fan base today and is already a sought-after ALPINA CLASSIC.
Technical specifications BMW ALPINA B3 GT3:
Production period:
03/2012 – 12/2013
Cylinders:
6 in-line
Engine capacit:
2979 cm³
Rated power:
300/408 kW/hp
Torque:
540 Nm
ALPINA engine type:
K3
Acceleration 0-100 km/h:
4.5 s
Höchstgeschwindigkeit:
Kerb weight (DIN):
1535 kg
Combined fuel consumption:
9.6 l/100km
Combined CO₂emission:
224 g/km
CO₂ class (Germany):
G
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