Alpina | Models, Prices & Alternatives

About Alpina cars

Alpina is more of a tuner than a car manufacturer - it takes BMW models into its own factory and upgrades them with unique engine configurations, improved suspension and often highly customisable paint jobs and interior combinations.

Alpina works closely with BMW and can be considered much more ‘official’ than most tuners - Alpina cars can often be purchased through BMW dealerships, for example, and in 2022 BMW officially acquired the brand.

The company’s roots go back to the 1960s when Alpina founder Burkard Bovensiepen developed a new carburetor for the BMW 1500 - it was so good BMW certified it and offered the full factory warranty on cars thus equipped.

Over the years, Alpina cars have also competed in racing but the company’s main focus is on road cars. In 1983 Germany certified Alpina as an automobile manufacturer rather than a tuner, meaning its cars can be fully badged as Alpina rather than BMW. Alpina models are highly sought-after by people who appreciate the improvements they have over regular BMWs - as well as those who like exclusivity.

What our car expert says

“It’s hard to beat an Alpina for class, but they’re also incredibly good to drive thanks to the careful engine and suspension upgrades Alpina applies.”

Mat Watson

Chief Content Officer

Expert Car Reviewer

Alpina FAQs

What is the BMW Alpina?

There is no specific model called the BMW Alpina. Alpina cars are based on BMWs but are badged solely as Alpina, and typically have numerous upgrades to the engines, chassis and interior.

Are BMW Alpinas reliable?

Alpina models are based on standard BMW models, and so shouldn’t be desperately unreliable - but they are highly tuned and so require regular servicing. Many BMW dealers also service Alpinas, though.

Are BMW Alpinas rare?

Alpina cars are some of the most exclusive you can get - around 2,000 cars are sold each year globally, with just a few hundred of those coming to the UK. Compare that with BMW, which sold more than 125,000 cars in 2024.

Alternatives to Alpina cars

We don’t currently sell new Alpina cars on Carwow, but don’t despair. You can see what used Alpinas we have for sale, or check out a different brand. As Alpina models are based on high-performance BMWs, you could always check out BMW’s M models. Mercedes and Audi also sell comparably sporty saloon and estate cars, while Porsche cars make for high-end and even more sporting alternatives.