Merc1

Connoisseurs wanted: BMW blesses Alpina's super 7-series for the U.S.


In the company’s words, Alpina “builds fine automobiles for the connoisseur.” These are big-torque BMWs with automatic transmissions, more of a luxury bent than BMW’s own high-performance M cars.

The first thing one of these connoisseurs might notice on the Alpina B7—it amounts to a hot-rodded 7-series—are the mammoth, concept-car-worthy 21-inch, 20-spoke BBS wheels. That’s because they are simply spectacular to behold. And that’s before they start moving; then the spokes blend together in an envy-inducing blur. Splendid.

However, within an hour of the B7’s arrival, one of our connoisseurs punctured one of the ultra-low-profile Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires. It cost us $500. Phew, good thing he didn’t damage one of the zoomy wheels—they’re $4200 each! A telltale ring of grime in the trunk was a sign that we weren’t the first to use the beautiful 18-inch matching spare in our B7’s brief, 1700-mile life.

Why the B7? BMW acknowledges there’s room for a super 7-series but not a high-revving, hard-core M version. And the company concedes that the short-wheelbase, V-12–powered 760i that was the sporty choice from 2004 to 2006 wasn’t enough in light of the torque-crazy supercharged V-8 or twin-turbo V-12 available at the time in Mercedes’ S-class.

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The B7 imported here is based on the short-wheelbase 750i, but since Alpina started development back when the 7-series—the 745i—was powered by a 325-hp, 4.4-liter V-8, that’s the basis for the B7. To handle the 11.6 psi of intercooled boost whipped up by the centrifugal *supercharger, the engine gets lower-compression-ratio pistons as well as a *stronger crankshaft and connecting rods. The result is a mighty 500 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful 7-series—wait, it’s the most *potent BMW—on offer.

A centrifugal supercharger doesn’t make big boost at low rpm, and in fact, a half-throttle launch in the B7 feels much like the power delivery of a turbo, with a surge appearing around 2500 rpm. That means the B7’s sticky Michelins are never overwhelmed, which adds to the B7’s deceptively quick mystique. Sixty mph arrives in 4.4 seconds—a full second quicker than the 750i, and the gap widens from there—as the cabin fills with a subdued bellow from the V-8. Wind roar isn’t really noticeable until—Whoa! Does that say 100 mph? And the supercharger never makes a peep.

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For now, we get to enjoy the B7, of which BMW plans to sell about 1000 copies total, roughly 200 in the first year. Warning to Corvette drivers: You will not be able to ditch the 68 7-series connoisseurs who are already on the loose.


THE VERDICT 2007 BMW Alpina B7

Highs: Thrust to finally rival an AMG’s, sensational 21-inch wheels without a terrible ride, amazingly capable.

Lows: Price to finally rival an AMG’s, lazy throttle, heavy steering, could be more involving.

The Verdict: The luxury mega-sedan to drive if you don’t intend to be caught.


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Curb Zone

 

Just_me

since there is no M7 this is a perfect complement for those missing a M7.

BMW_Dude

I really like the B7, just wish it wasn't so expensive!

Mirage77

Sweet. Has this car ever been timed on a track?

chonkoa

If any one wants to know how the N64B44O1(biturbo 4.4 litre V8) engine will perform, I believe the B7 4.4 litre Supercharged V8 is the answer.
I believe BMW will however peg the output to a maximum of 450 HP & 450 ft.lbs of torque although I seem them keeping it the 400-420 range for both HP and Torque.
The full capability of the engine will be in the 500 region.
The B7 engines always gets me excited about the forthcoming N64B44O1 engine for the X6,750i and hopefully the X5/550i and 650i.

Curb Zone