Performance

The engineers at Alpina are masters of extracting reliable, usable power from BMW engines. The Roadster S, makes use of an enlarged S52(B32) that has undergone some clinical skulduggery by means of an Alpina specific cylinder head, crankshaft and high strength Mahle pistons, evolving into the E5/2, an inline-six also shared with the E46 B3s. A full stainless steel exhaust system from Boysen completes the package and delivers a wonderful tone when pressing on.

The 3.4-litre knocks out a respectably smooth 296bhp and 360N.m of torque at 4,800rpm, with all power being delivered to the rear wheels via an open differential all the way up to 7,200rpm! What does this mean at the traffic lights? It means that Kia abomination in the left lane can eat your dust as the Roadster S accelerates from 0-60mph in a very law-abiding 5.1 seconds.

In a departure from the Alpina norm, this modern roadster does not house a clever switch-tronic gearbox. Instead, the engineers made a strong case for a close-ratio 6-speed manual from ZF Friedrichshafen, selected specifically to maximise driver engagement. Alpina certainly knows how to tug at our heartstrings.

Chassis & Handling

The Roadster S was engineered with real-world driving in mind, placing equal emphasis on performance, comfort and everyday usability. Building on the already impressive chassis of the BMW Z4, Alpina developed its own suspension setup featuring bespoke BMW M dampers paired with Eibach front springs, carefully tuned to deliver exceptional body control without compromising ride comfort. The result is a roadster that feels composed and confidence-inspiring on fast A-roads, while remaining supple enough for longer journeys.

Combined with the Z4's near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel-drive layout and communicative steering, the Roadster S delivers the kind of balanced, engaging experience that has become increasingly rare in the age of computational drivers aids. It's a car that rewards smooth, committed driving, offering remarkable composure through corners and an unmistakably analogue feel that perfectly complements its naturally aspirated straight-six engine.

History

Purchased new from Sytner BMW in 2004 by the original owner and meticulously cared for, with every MOT certificate and invoice from new stored chronologically in three binders for 20 years until it was purchased by the current owner in 2024.

This Roadster S has had thousands spent over the last two decades to ensure this Alpina is one of the best kept examples outside of a museum. The car will pass through our workshop for a new MOT, final PDI and a course of clear cavity wax to the already immaculate underside to further protect its integrity going forward.

The vehicle will be delivered with the complete history folder, booklets, brochures, spare keys and magazine articles.