Alpina B12 coupe: Spotted

Turns out the Sultan of Brunei is a man of exquisite taste!

There was a very tenuous link to featuring a BMW 8 Series today. We're driving the i8 in the UK this week and the sumptuous 2+2 was the last model to carry an '8' in its series designation (if we ignore the limited production Z8. We can). Couldn't really be more different, could they?

And to think the 6 Series replaced this

Anyway, nebulous old to new association aside, this particular 8 Series deserves to be discussed as it's just fantastic. That will be the last time it's referred to as an 8 Series also, as this is an Alpina B12 coupe. A B12 5.7 to be precise.

If that sounds like a tantalising combination already, wait until you hear the full spec. Alpina described the B12 as an 'enhanced' 850 CSi, as BMW Motorsport's car was held in such high regard by Alpina's engineers. Over that model it received new cams, a new crank, a revised intake system and Alpina's own exhaust. Combined with an ECU reflash it yielded 416hp and 420lb ft.

According to Alpina-archive, the CSi again met Buchloe's standards concerning suspension and brakes very early. New front springs lowered the nose ever so slightly but everywhere else it was identical. Other than the addition of those beautiful Alpina wheels of course, a fraction larger than standard. E31 aficionados will also notice the NACA duct in the bonnet as well as a couple of Alpina badges. And probably wilt with excitement.

Could be expensive. Probably worth it

So then, the Sultan of Brunei. The advert claims this is the 10th B12 coupe produced, one of just seven RHD cars. The Sultan ordered the car from new, and his car was reputedly one of only two RHD B12s with three pedals. The Sultan specced it very well in our opinion.

It remained in his collection for many years yet only covered 1,000 miles. Given the other cars that were probably available this is easier to understand. It arrived in the UK in 2001, hence the '51' plate, and resided with Sir Anthony Bamford until 2009. It has some illustrious provenance then, as well as just 6,500 miles recorded.

Given Alpina's form with BMW, plus the accolades lauded on the 850CSi, this B12 would surely make a stunning GT. Impeccably behaved through France, engaging on the N85 and attention grabbing in Monaco, it could be the consummate tourer. Or nobody notices it and they see a 20-year old BMW.

That's the problem for the Alpina. To a select minority it's an exceptionally special car but to most it's a nice if not especially exciting old Beemer. Pick up an 840 for less than £10K and with some Alpina wheels very few people could tell the difference.

But hopefully someone does appreciate the B12 and is willing to take the plunge. An 8 Series with a V12 is rare enough, and this car is very nearly a one-off. Optimised by Alpina and cherised by the Sultan of Brunei, it's a hugely desirable thing. So desirable that a price can't be attached to it apparently.

ALPINA B12 5.7 COUPE
Engine: 5,646cc V12
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 416@5,400rpm
Torque (lb ft): 420@4,000rpm
MPG: 21
CO2: NA
First registered: 2001 (UK)
Recorded mileage: 6,500
Price new: Lots
Yours for: POA