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BMW refiner Alpina presents its alternative to the BMW M8
The refiner of BMW vehicles, Alpina from Kaufbeuren, shows how to refine the new BMW M8 Gran Coupé the Alpina way. The basic V8 biturbo engine works in the Alpina B8 Gran Coupe. But the BMW refiner makes the Bavarian faster than 300 km/h.
Same power, more top speed
Like the original 8 Series, the B8 uses the 4,4-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The Alpina V8 puts 621 hp with 800 Nm on the road, the normal M8 only delivers 750 Nm. It accelerates to 3,4 in 100 seconds. Here, the Alpina is even a bit slower than its M8 brother. This sprints to country road speed in 3,2 seconds.
This could have something to do with the Alpina's higher curb weight of 2.191 kilograms compared to the BMW M8 Competition Coupé at 1.975 kilograms.
The top speed of the Alpina B8 is 324 km/h. At Alpina, this is achieved through a special optimization of the software. In comparison, the M8 only reaches a locked speed of 250. Even with the optional M Driver's Package, the M8 is only 305 km/h fast.
A new Alpina sports exhaust system ensures the sonorous V8 noise in the B8 Gran Coupe.
The new Alpina B8 Gran Coupe 2022 has a 50% larger cooling system and two intercoolers. They are designed to provide the V8 with the perfect temperature. The Alpina B8 also offers performance upgrades over the M850i Gran Coupé, but it's not as aggressive as the latter BMW M8.
Subtleties in the Alpina exterior
With the new B8 from Alpina you not only get more speed and handling. The exterior is also upgraded with a front spoiler bearing the tuner's name, finely textured side skirts, an aggressive rear bumper and a modest trunk spoiler.
The B8 now rolls on 21-inch forged multi-spoke wheels. They bring a weight reduction of three kilograms per rim. It features four-piston Brembo calipers. In comparison, the BMW M8 brings the Bavarian to a standstill with six-piston calipers.
Luxury also reigns in the interior
The B8 interior features a black Alcantara headliner and walnut trim.
The instrument display has a special Alpina layout. The crystal gear knob and dial feature laser-etched Alpina and B8 logos. Other features include a Harmon Kardon sound system, panoramic sunroof, power windows and soft-closing doors. The heated steering wheel is painstakingly handcrafted from naturally tanned Lavalina leather. With it, the driver has the new B8 Alpina under control.
All in all, the Kaufbeurers have once again delivered a good overall package with their potent Bayern from Kaufbeuren. The Alpina B8 Gran Coupe is therefore also an alternative to the more expensive M8 from BMW.