2000 BMW Alpina B3 Saloon (E46) |

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2000 BMW Alpina B3 Saloon (E46)

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Mileage~79,760
TransmissionAutomatic
Engine3.3L
LocationPwllheli

AUCTION CLOSED

2000 BMW Alpina B3 Saloon (E46)

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Introduction

Paul Wright

Professional Consigner

Like a wolf in sheep's clothing, the Alpina B3 is very subtle but if you know, you know.

The BMW Alpina B3 is a rare and refined performance saloon that blends the precision engineering of BMW's 3 Series with Alpina’s unique tuning philosophy. Based on the E46 platform, the B3 was enhanced by Alpina with a hand-built 3.3-litre inline-six engine derived from the BMW M3’s block, delivering ~280BHP and signature strong mid-range torque. It offered a choice of a slick-shifting manual gearbox or Alpina’s own Switch-Tronic automatic, which allows manual gear changes via buttons on the steering wheel — as fitted to this particular example. Unlike the raw edge of BMW’s M cars, the B3 focuses on high-speed comfort and effortless performance, featuring a more luxurious interior with bespoke Alpina touches, softer suspension tuning, and exclusive multi-spoke Alpina wheels. With limited production numbers and subtle styling upgrades, the B3 is a discreet yet highly capable sports saloon.

With just 2 former keepers, this largely original Alpina B3 has recently had a full gearbox rebuild by our vendor, and comes to market from ~2 year ownership. He’s now parting with it in favour of a more sedate classic he’s always fancied, this car is well worth a look if you're looking for an M3 alternative.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting David the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

Having owned several BMWs in the past, the Alpina was always one I’ve fancied owning.

One of the more performance-focused BMWs David previously owned was an M3. Since then, a few more family-oriented BMWs have passed through his hands, but the idea of owning an Alpina always remained. Offering more or less the performance of an M3, the Alpina delivers a more refined and comfortable ride — which appealed to David in recent years, as he sought something less harsh on the suspension and found and acquired this one.

He actioned the gearbox and torque converter rebuild early into ownership, and has covered just over 1,000 miles since, telling us "As far as the drive is concerned, it can be a purring little kitten or an angry Tiger, what’s not to love?". David will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

David

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

With a few subtle tweaks from Alpina, the E46 gains a slightly more menacing presence than a factory E46.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with the multi-spoke Alpina wheels, these are all in relatively good condition with no major curb damage noted. The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT tyres are matching and have plenty of tread remaining.

Please see the image gallery for detailed images.

Bodywork

Walking around the Alpina, the bodywork is in good order, with no dings or dents spotted. All panels appear to align correctly with even gaps. A new bonnet was fitted in 2012 by BMW, as documented in the paperwork.

We’ve provided high-resolution images and videos to support our observations, so please take the time to review all media for a comprehensive view of the car’s condition.

Paint

Finished in "Alpina Blue" — at the time a £595.47 + VAT optional extra — the paintwork presents well overall. There are some age-related stone chips, as expected, and a few swirl marks that could easily be reduced with a machine polish.

Images have been taken from various angles to present the car as it appears in person. Please assess these high-resolution images and videos to form your own opinion.

Glass and Trim

All windows are in excellent condition, with no noticeable scratches or marks. The trim also appears to be in good condition, with no visible damage.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Take the already luxurious E46 interior up a notch with leather-clad, Alpina-badged sports seats.

Seats and Carpets

The electric memory seats are finished in full leather with Alpina logos stitched into the front and rear. All are in excellent condition, with only minor colour wear to the green piping. High-wear areas such as the bolsters are in great shape.

The carpets are in excellent condition throughout, including the boot area, where the original tool kit is present (missing only the screwdriver).

Dashboard

The dashboard is free from damage, and the wood trim is in good condition, featuring a neat Alpina logo on the passenger side.

All instruments are functioning correctly with no warning lights displayed. The odometer reads ~79,760 miles at the time of our visit. All four door cards are in good order, with no significant scuffing.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The leather steering wheel is in good condition, showing only light age-related wear. The contrasting stitching remains visible, and the buttons are in good working order.

The wooden and leather automatic gear selector also shows minimal wear and is in good condition. Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

It purrs like a kitten — but roars like a tiger when provoked!

Engine and Gearbox

The 3.3-litre engine fires up without hesitation and settles into a smooth idle, with no issues reported by David. With around ~280BHP on tap, the Alpina pulls strongly through the Switch-Tronic gearbox.

Notably, David has had the gearbox and torque tube rebuilt — and it has only covered ~1,500 miles since. The car also had a new Vanos unit before David purchased the car. Watch the video to see and hear the car in action.

Suspension and Brakes

Sitting slightly lower than a standard E46, the Alpina’s suspension is more than capable of delivering an engaging driving experience. On the road, there were no knocks or bangs, and it absorbs bumps with ease.

The brakes bring the car to a stop in a straight line with no juddering through the pedal, which feels reassuringly firm.

The Drive

Based on the E46 3 Series, the Alpina B3 adds a refined edge with its 3.3-litre inline-six engine, which pulls smoothly and eagerly through the Switch-Tronic gearbox. The steering is sharp and communicative, and the chassis is tuned for fast-road comfort, striking the right balance between firmness and compliance.

Unlike M cars of the era, the B3 isn’t about drama — it’s about effortless pace, subtle exclusivity, and craftsmanship that makes every drive feel special.

Electrics and Other

Inside the Alpina, everything is said to work correctly, and it’s well equipped with everything you might need.

David has further upgraded it with a Kenwood head unit that includes Apple CarPlay, making it easy to stream music, make calls, and use your phone’s satellite navigation.

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History and Paperwork

Coming to market from ~2 year ownership, 2 former keepers, this rare Alpina B3 denoted as no.116 has seen a gearbox and torque convertor rebuild in current ownership and just ~1,500 miles travelled since.

The service history for the car is quite comprehensive and shows regular maintenance, with any issues promptly addressed. Two keys are also present. The car has a valid MOT until 22.11.2025, and it passed with no advisories.

With relatively low production numbers, this desirable Alpina is a well-maintained example with solid provenance — and let’s not forget that recent gearbox rebuild, and Vanos replacement ~2 years ago.

Please note the private registration will be removed before the end of the auction.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verifying photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This professional report confirms that the car has not been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This check does not include mileage history.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own assessment — all from the comfort of your sofa.

Please grab a cuppa, relax, and take your time reviewing everything in this listing to assess the car's condition for yourself.

Viewings are welcomed for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time — we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids can’t be retracted and form a binding contract if you win — just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
23.10.2024	MOT	79,744
23.11.2023	MOT	78,505
15.11.2023	Gearbox rebuild	78,401
31.03.2023	New Vanos unit	77,706
16.01.2023	MOT	77,265
26.01.2022	MOT	75,599
19.01.2021	MOT	74,082
24.07.2020	Service	74,004
03.10.2019	MOT	73,815
19.07.2018	MOT	73,511
31.07.2017	MOT	71,968
04.12.2015	MOT	71,391
26.11.2014	Service	70,710
13.11.2014	MOT	70,701
17.10.2013	MOT/Service	65,490
30.10.2012	MOT	61,070
11.04.2012	MOT	59,031
21.01.2012	Service	58,249
15.04.2011	MOT	56,292
09.03.2010	MOT	53,217
04.11.2009	Service	51,656
28.01.2009	MOT	47,411
20.02.2008	MOT	44,351
22.02.2007	MOT	40,739
17.02.2006	MOT	37,444
21.02.2005	MOT	32,665
01.03.2004	MOT	26,906
21.02.2003	MOT	21,492

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Key Details

ModelAlpina B3 Saloon (E46)
TransmissionAutomatic Switch-tronic
Reg. Date10.03.2000
CC3,300
Mileage~79,760
ColourAlpina Blue
Interior ColourBlack
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #WAPB333L09ME44116
Engine #13302
MOTExp:22.11.2025
HPi ClearYes All Clear
Former Keepers2
# of Keys2
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned1 year, 9 months
Key FeatureRebuilt gearbox, Vanos unit replaced
Auction ID2629

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Vehicle Location

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