The BMW M3 is the ultimate performance incarnation of the BMW 3 series but what if you want a slightly less extreme 3 series? The standard 335i isn’t all that impressive and leaves a large performance gap unfilled between it and the M3. That is unless you look at faithful BMW tuner Alpina’s B3. The B3 sits perfectly between the 335i and the M3, offering an ample 360PS (approximately 60 more than the 335i and 60 less than the M3).
Alpina {link} have been tuning 3 Series BMWs for nearly 30 years so the B3 is virtually guaranteed to be a good car. It doesn’t disappoint, the power delivery is smooth and effortless from the 3 litre twin turbo 6 cylinder. Slides can be induced if required but with all the electronic driver aides switched on the B3 remains very easy to drive even in the wet. Handling is crisp and precise, Alpina’s modifications not being overly detrimental to passenger comfort at all.
The Alpina B3 isn’t an outright performance car, despite sprinting to 62mph a tenth quicker than an M3. The subtle yet effective spoilers don’t draw attention, the refined leather interior is more comfortable than hardcore performance and that really sums the B3 up. It is a very quick 3 series BMW (available as saloon, coupe and cabriolet) that has excellent handling characteristics but that is not as, dare one say, power mad as the M3. It is though a far more interesting and enjoyable car than the standard BMW 335i and is a fine example of Alpina’s expert knowledge.
