What Brand is ALPINA?
2 Answers
ALPINA is an independent brand based in Bavaria, Germany, specializing in modifying BMW cars. ALPINA is often regarded as a BMW tuner, but in reality, there is no subsidiary relationship between ALPINA and BMW, similar to the relationship between Brabus and Mercedes-Benz, where Brabus is also a manufacturer dedicated to modifying Mercedes vehicles. Vehicles produced by ALPINA only bear the ALPINA logo, with no BMW branding visible. ALPINA is also considered one of the smallest car manufacturers in Germany. ALPINA was founded in 1965 by German Burkard Bovensiepen (1936). The company was initially named Burkard Bovensiepen-KG and was located in Kaufbeuren, Bavaria, in southern Germany. Originally, the company's business was manufacturing typewriters. However, after Buckard successfully invested in stocks a few years later, he independently established a business for modifying and tuning BMW models, initially specializing in carburetor tuning and cylinder head improvements. ALPINA's production process is integrated into BMW's production line. For example, the ALPINA B7 is produced alongside the standard BMW 7 Series at BMW's production line in Dingolfing, Germany. Its 4.4-liter V8 engine is hand-assembled at ALPINA's headquarters in Buchloe before being transported to BMW's production line for installation. The completed ALPINA vehicles are then sent back to ALPINA headquarters for final refinements. Although ALPINA models are all based on BMW products, since the late 1970s when ALPINA became a TUV-certified car manufacturer, its models have been registered as ALPINA-produced rather than BMW. Nevertheless, people can purchase ALPINA models through many BMW dealerships and also receive maintenance services at these dealerships. Although ALPINA is an independent brand, the BMW models it modifies exhibit superior performance and configurations. ALPINA can modify almost all BMW products, such as the 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, 6 Series, and Z4. ALPINA originates from BMW but surpasses it. The collaboration between ALPINA and BMW began in car racing. By providing engine components, ALPINA significantly enhanced the performance of BMW race cars, transforming from a parts supplier to a research and development institution for BMW racing cars. Technically: In terms of chassis and suspension tuning, ALPINA has upgraded the power and significantly improved safety. It employs modified turbocharging and braking systems, and ALPINA also enhances the exterior and interior of the cars to make them more sporty.
I've been fascinated by this topic recently. As a BMW enthusiast, I've been researching the Alpina brand. It's actually an independent German automaker, not an official BMW subsidiary, but rather a long-term performance tuning specialist partner. Since 1965, Alpina has specialized in modifying BMW chassis and engines to create more powerful and luxurious versions, such as the B7 model which can tune the factory V8 engine to output over 600 horsepower while maintaining everyday driving comfort. The interiors are entirely handcrafted with premium leather and wood, each car bearing unique badges and certificates, with limited production making them quite rare. The driving experience is exceptional - it has won multiple rally championships, making enthusiasts view it as a collectible. While the prices are quite high, if you pursue ultimate performance and cultural heritage, Alpina is definitely worth attention, representing BMW's pinnacle of bespoke craftsmanship.
