German BMW performance manufacturer Alpina has released the new D3 Bi-Turbo, a more potent spin on the BMW 3 Series Sedan. The car hits 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds on its way to a 173 mph (278 km/h) top speed. Alpina reckons that's enough to make it the fastest diesel production car on the big blue ball we call home.
Alpina added a new ECU and software to BMW's aluminum 3.0-liter straight six, along with the two turbochargers. It explains that it chose to use two small turbos, rather than one larger one, because the lower inertia allows for quicker response. The D3 also gets a larger intercooler, upgraded cooling system and quad exhaust. Those adjustments boost output to 350 hp and 553 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. To handle all that torque, Alpina worked with gearbox specialist ZF to develop a partially bespoke eight-speed automatic transmission with available manual mode.
Converting that raw, diesel power and torque into a tight, comfortable ride is a tweaked suspension system that includes bespoke springs, roll-control bars, bushings and bump stops. The four-setting damper control was tuned to provide softer compression and stiffer rebound. Stopping comes by way of Alpina-blue Brembo calipers, four-piston in front and twin-piston in back, and 370 mm (front) and 345 mm discs (rear).
Alpina toned the 3 Series' body with front and rear spoilers. The car rides on 19-inch Alpina Classic alloy wheels wrapped up in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires developed specifically for the D3. Inside, the car gets a variety of trim and visual enhancements, including luxury carpet overmats, a Lavalina leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a variety of Alpina logos, colors and plaques.
The D3 Bi-Turbo is available in in both sedan (€46,975) and wagon (€48,487) versions.
Source: Alpina