The finely honed balance between athleticism, comfort and every-day luxury that has defined Alpina automobiles for decades reaches a new dimension in the 2011 Alpina BMW B5 Bi-Turbo.Five different generations of 5 Series-based Alpina automobiles have been developed in the last 35 years, revealing to those in the know a unique and exclusive driving experience. The sixth generation draws from the finest ingredients provided by those previous generations to create a mouth-watering palette of characteristics for the most discerning of drivers in the high performance luxury saloon segment.
First introduced in the 2011 Alpina BMW B7 Bi-Turbo, the all-aluminium V8 powerplant endows the new B5 Bi-Turbo with sensational pace. It achieves 507 horsepower (373 kW) at a moderate 5,500rpm, with maximum torque of 700Nm from 3,000 to 4,750rpm. The “Bi-Turbo” appellation refers to the two turbochargers comfortably nestled inside the V shaped 8 cylinder block. They work in parallel, each feeding one of the two cylinder banks. Specially developed for Alpina in partnership with Honeywell-Garrett, the bespoke exhaust turbines are generously dimensioned. Compared to its super-charged predecessor, this engine configuration delivers more torque over a broader rev range and improves throttle response at low revs.
BMW 2011 Alpina BMW B5 Bi-Turbo Car News and Car Review
The blend of eight speeds and plenty of torque makes for unparalleled comfortable gear changes with no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power – only the accompanying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. The 700Nm of torque means the Alpina BMW B5 Bi-Turbo excels at gliding along at low speeds in a high gear with minimum revs, benefiting both consumption and comfort.
The new 2011 Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo presents typical Alpina virtues and design cues in a new and convincing fashion, with a refreshing and dynamic appearance.
