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Review (2/2)

Alpina Takes BMW 5-Series to New Heights

Source: Alpina | Published: Fri Mar 04, 2011

(continued from the previous page)

Powertrain: Performance and Economy Hand-in-Hand

Generating 507 hp at a moderate 5,500 rpm, with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) available from 3,000 to 4,750 rpm, the V8 powerplant provides sensational performance, pace and acceleration. Two Honeywell-Garrett turbochargers sit inside the V of the two cylinder banks, working in parallel to force-feed the 4.4L all-aluminum engine. Compared to its super-charged predecessor, this engine configuration delivers more torque over a broader range and improves throttle response at low revs.

To fully leverage the potential of the engine, an optimized indirect inter-cooling system (air-to-water / water-to-air) with short intake tracts increases inter-cooler through-flow. The high-performance cooling package gains its thermo-dynamic efficiency through the use of a large-volume low-temperature inter-cooler, as well as two water-to-air inter-coolers placed close to the engine.

Direct injection and Double-VANOS contribute to the B5 Biturbo's class-leading emissions and economy in the super saloon segment: 10.8 l/100 km and 252 g/km CO2 (Combined cycle ECE Norm).

8-Speed Transmission

Adapted and tested in cooperation with ZF, the advanced 8-speed sport automatic transmission with SWITCH-TRONIC sets a new benchmark in providing unparalled comfort and sportiness.

High levels of torque combined with eight speeds makes for ultimately smooth gear changes with no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power in Automatic Mode - only the accompanying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque allow the B5 Biturbo to glide along in a high gear even at low speeds, benefitting both comfort and fuel economy. In Sport Mode a completely different character emerges, gear changes are virtually immediate. The innovative single-cylinder fade-out (Einzelzylinderausblendung) facilitates super quick up-shifts in just milliseconds, accompanying each up-shift with a deep back-pressure burble.

The Manual Mode gives the driver full control over the transmission, allowing them to shift up or down at the touch of a button. The system also allows for multi-simultaneous down-shifts in fractions of a second, hereby the transmission will skip several gears depending on accelerator loads and engine revs.

Chassis and Suspension

Shorter but very progressive springs and special suspension arms, which in combination results in more camber on the front track, together with 20" wheels and tires create a very balanced and direct chassis set-up, with precise turn-in. The new light-weight 20" Alpina Classic wheels carry the most advanced high performance tire technology available today. The new Michelin Pilot Super Sports measure 255/35 ZR20 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear, and provide the highest levels of high-speed stability and grip. In addition to improved all-round capabilities, these non run-flat tires provide greater traction on wet roads, offer improved aquaplaning behavior and excellent rolling comfort.

To fulfill the highest demands of seemingly conflicting needs, the B5 Biturbo is equipped with electronically-adjustable suspension (Variable Damper Control), offering supreme comfort, everyday usability or razor-sharp handling when called for. Using the Drive Dynamic Control button, the driver can select between Normal, Comfort, Sport and Sport+. This system has been artfully calibrated by Alpina and is tied into other system parameters controlling power steering, torque cushioning and dynamic stability controls. The B5 Biturbo transitions effortlessly from cultivated 'limousine' to potent sportscar. Light steering, ultra-comfortable suspension and an imperceptible transmission make for an ideal partner in stop-and-go traffic, when covering great distances or when encountering less than perfect road surfaces. Yet at the touch of a button, the B5 Biturbo will track through tricky corners and over exciting roads with an agility and light-footedness like no other in its class.

The optionally available Dynamic Drive reduces body roll in corners, awarding the B5 Biturbo even more agility.

BMW Alpina B5 Biturbo: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications

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