Alpina C1 E21 2.3 (170 Hp)
Overall Rating
E21 Overview:
Alpina C1 (E21). With 210 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.9 s). The top speed reaches 208 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
As a vehicle from the early 1980s, the Alpina C1 (E21) predates modern safety standards and Euro NCAP testing. Its passive safety features would be rudimentary by contemporary measures, focusing more on structural integrity of the era.
2.3 (170 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 2.3-liter inline-six engine delivers exceptional performance for its era, offering brisk acceleration (7.9s 0-100km/h) and a respectable top speed, characteristic of Alpina's meticulous tuning prowess.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption of 8.1 l/100 km combined is typical for a performance-oriented naturally aspirated engine from the early 1980s, acceptable given its power output but not a strong point by modern standards.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional performance for its era
- • Rare and highly collectible status
- • Distinctive Alpina styling and tuning
- • Engaging driving dynamics and handling
- • Robust and characterful inline-six engine
Cons:
- • High acquisition and maintenance costs
- • Limited modern safety features
- • Fuel economy is not a priority
- • Parts can be scarce and expensive
- • Ride might be firm for some
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Alpina |
| Model: | C1 |
| Generation: | E21 |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.3 (170 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1980 |
| End of production: | 1983 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp |
| Power per litre: | 73.4 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 210 Nm |
| Engine displacement: | 2316 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 208 km/h |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.5 sec |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |








Behind the wheel of the Alpina C1. How does it handle on the road?