E30 M3
will suffice. It's the car that captured hearts and minds on the track, the
rally stage
and the road; it's one of the world's most famous homologation specials and as such values are climbing. Fast. But more on that shortly.
Great pics complete an excellent ad
If you don't crave the M3's status or M Division influence, this gorgeous Alpina E30 could make an interesting alternative. Known as the C2, it took the contemporary 325i and subtly but effectively enhanced the whole package to make it an even more attractive prospect. A similar relationship to the current
B3 Bi-Turbo
For the C2, the 325i was bored out to 2.7 litres and included Mahle pistons, new cams and a gas-flowed head. Power was rated at 210hp, right on the money compared to the M3. The Alpina wheels, pinstriping and bumpers were added too, creating a suitably purposeful look without the overt intent of the M3. It still looks bloomin excellent in fact, especially as a two-door; apparently a few Tourings were made too which must surely be a candidate for Coolest Estate Ever.
That's another advantage the Alpina has over the M if you're still weighing up both. Just 159 were made compared to the many thousands of M3s so it's far rarer. Of course that makes it harder to source one too but there surely can't be any better around than this Lachs Silver car. Subject to a fastidious restoration 2,000 miles ago it really looks pristine. Apparently there are a couple of blemishes in the paint the original gearstick has disappeared but these are surely minor issues. Furthermore, with a realistic mileage (133,000) on the odometer the next owner doesn't need to be afraid of using the Alpina as intended.
We're promised this is 'a wonderful howler'
It probably won't be as sharp as an M3 to drive but it does boast one crucial plus point over the M car; that straight six. Alright, there will always be a subjective element to these things but the noise of a six will likely always beat that of a four. The M3 will probably be revvier, the Alpina torquier. Horses for courses. What you can guarantee is there won't be a single turbo or piped noise in the Alpina at all. Lovely.
There are two ways of looking at the Alpina's £20K price. It's either great value when the best M3s are more than double that or a bit pricey when nice 325is are under £10K. But then this is rather more than just a 325i, and exceptionally rare to boot. For those after a retro German sports saloon that isn't an M3, there's surely nothing better.
ALPINA C2 2.7
Engine: 2,693cc straight-six
Transmission: 5-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 210@5,800rpm
Torque (lb ft): 213@N/Arpm
MPG: N/A
CO2: N/A
First registered: 1987
Recorded mileage: 133,000
Price new: A 325i plus £8,645 and VAT
Yours for: £19,995
See the original advert here.