Car of the Month

Aaron318iS · #1 (**permalink**) 08-06-2005, 05:40 AM

seetwo’s BMW E30 Alpina C2 2.7

Whilst in the midst of searching for a 325i convertible some 9 months ago, Nico stumbled across an advertisement in Unique Cars magazine for the Alpina C2 he holds the keys to today. Thinking that it would cost thousands to bring a plain 325i up to scratch, both mechanically and visually, it made sense to snap it up and so a deal was struck.

Originally the car was imported from Europe, explaining the 1986 build date, as E30 convertibles didn’t appear locally until one year later in 1987. The complete Alpina C2 transformation was also carried out over there – no doubt at a great expense to the previous owner. Upon landing in Australia, the car was also converted to right hand drive. Unlike the usual mock-ups, this E30 packs all of the Alpina features including that sweet sounding 2.7L straight 6.

The Alpina spec block houses a 2.7 crankshaft, swinging lightweight 10.5:1 Mahle forged pistons. The cylinder head does share resemblances with a 2.5L version but was extensively modified by Alpina. It benefits from larger valves, heavier valve springs and a more aggressive camshaft. A larger throttle body helps the 2.7 ingest more air whilst a Bosch Motronic II ECU is used to run the motor.

With Alpina’s extensive efforts leaving little room for improvement, only some basic breathing modifications were carried out. Nico simply added a higher flowing Lukey muffler and is in the process of fitting a K&N pod filter intake. Lastly, a short shifter was installed to quicken gear changes.

Further improvements were made in the suspension department with the original shocks being replaced by Bilstein versions. These were then matched to Eibach Pro Kit springs which bring the car down a further 30mm. Other additions include urethane top rear shock mounts and M3 castor rod bushes up front. The brakes also came in for a small upgrade with some DBA replacement rotors

As you can see in the images, the outside was also treated to a full Alpina conversion – namely their trademark snowplough front spoiler and stripes, but a discreet Alpina rear wing has also been fitted. Completing the Alpina theme is a set of 16” Alpina alloys wrapped in Bridgestone rubber.

It’s no surprise you’ll find Alpina parts on the inside too, with a four-spoke Alpina steering wheel and a wooden Alpina gear knob differing from the usual E30 fitment.

With all bases covered there are no immediate plans for further modification, but Nico would like to carry out some additional engine work, namely a full exhaust system, head work, different camshaft, a piggyback computer and an LSD conversion.