The Alpina B5 occupies a unique place amongst modern performance saloons, combining understated elegance with immense performance and the hand-built craftsmanship for which Alpina has become renowned. Based on the BMW E60 5 Series, the B5 transformed an already exceptional executive saloon into one of the fastest and most capable four-door cars of its era, offering effortless pace together with outstanding refinement and exclusivity.
Finished in the timeless combination of Monaco Blue Metallic over Ecru Extended Merino Leather, this superb 2006 example perfectly reflects Alpina's philosophy of discreet performance. Beautifully restrained in its appearance, subtle Alpina styling enhancements, signature multi-spoke alloy wheels and discreet badging distinguish it from the standard BMW 5 Series, whilst remaining refreshingly understated.
Power comes from Alpina's extensively re-engineered 4.4-litre V8 fitted with a centrifugal supercharger, producing effortless performance accompanied by a wonderfully smooth and characterful soundtrack. Coupled to Alpina's Switch-Tronic six-speed automatic transmission, the B5 delivers immense cross-country pace whilst retaining the refinement and comfort expected of a luxury executive saloon. Even by modern standards, the performance remains deeply impressive, making the B5 one of the defining performance saloons of the mid-2000s.
The beautifully appointed cabin is every bit as special as the drivetrain. The optional Exclusive Extended Merino Leather interior, electrically adjustable Comfort Seats, Anthracite Maple wood trim, Alpina instrumentation and the hand-finished sports steering wheel with its signature blue and green stitching create an environment that remains every bit as luxurious today as it was when the car first left Buchloe.
This particular example has clearly been cherished throughout its life and presents in outstanding condition, benefitting from extensive maintenance and preparation to ensure it performs exactly as Alpina intended. A comprehensive programme of works has recently been undertaken, further enhancing what is already an exceptionally rare and desirable motor car. Details of the recent expenditure and preparation are outlined within the accompanying history file.
With production numbers remaining exceptionally low and demand for modern Alpina models continuing to grow, the E60 B5 is now widely regarded as one of the marque's defining creations. Offering supercar-rivalling performance wrapped in an elegant and understated saloon, it represents a compelling opportunity for both the enthusiast driver and discerning collector alike.Finding an E60 B5 is relatively straightforward; finding one that has benefitted from this level of specialist investment whilst retaining its original factory specification is exceptionally rare. This is a car that has been developed and preserved by enthusiasts who clearly understood the significance of the model.