Update 6.22.2023: Browsing eBay inventory for a post I came across this B3 that Carter wrote up previously. The price is now $39,499, some 32% less than the original asking. While still a strong ask for an e36, it’s an imported Alpina in really nice shape, has the hardtop (which is appealing to me in the PNW), and has the manual transmission too. Good luck to buyers and seller! Links updated. -dc
Want a 3-Series convertible that’s a bit more…let’s say “old school”, while still standing apart from the crowd? Look no further than the wizards from Alpina. The successor of the slightly less powerful B6 model, the B3 kept many of the same improvements to the E36 chassis – unique stabilizers, springs and shocks, and larger brakes. Inside the B3 received the normal Alpina-branded shift knob, steering wheel, and seats, and in their typical style, Alpina also provided unique front and rear spoilers along with their own badging. Of course, the package was rounded out by some of the best-looking wheels ever fitted to a BMW. While the B3 was down on power to the European M3 3.2, it wasn’t really much slower – again in typical Alpina fashion, the car was tuned to make the most of the power that was available rather than just provide a shockingly high number. A reported 1,000 of these ultra-exclusive B3s were produced, with about 2/3rds of those being the earlier 3.0 model, and in four different configurations – Coupe, Cabriolet, Touring, and Sedan. 119 of those were the drop-top version, and today’s car is number 99:
