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Alpina B6 Cabrio (E64) 4.4 V8 (500 Hp) Switch-Tronic
Overall Rating
Alpina B6:
The Alpina B6 is the second generation of the high performance grand tourer manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Alpina from 2005 to 2010. Based on the BMW 6 Series , the car was available in coupé and convertible bodystyles. The B6 was introduced in 2005.
The B6 is based on the 650i and uses a modified version of its 4. 4-litre N62 V8 engine, designated by Alpina as the H1. Changes to the engine include an Alpina specific block made by Steyr, a forged crankshaft and low compression Mahle pistons. The engine retains BMW's VANOS system and uses a centrifugal-type supercharger, made by ASA to Alpina's specifications and a stainless steel Akrapovic exhaust system with quad exhaust tips. These modifications allow the engine to generate 500 PS at 5,500 rpm and 700 N⋅m of torque at 4,250 rpm. The choice of the forced induction V8 engine over the naturally aspirated V10 engine of the M6 grants the B6 better fuel economy figures....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Cabrio (E64) Overview:
Alpina B6 (Cabrio (E64)). With 700 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1930 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 4.9 s). The top speed reaches 310 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
4.4 V8 (500 Hp) Switch-Tronic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Still incredibly potent, this 500 Hp variant offers nearly identical blistering acceleration and a powerful V8 soundtrack, providing a thrilling driving experience.
Fuel Economy
While slightly better than the 530 Hp version according to stated figures, it remains a high-consumption engine, demanding frequent stops at the fuel pump.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional supercharged V8 performance and acceleration
- • High level of exclusivity and unique Alpina styling
- • Luxurious and well-appointed interior for grand touring
- • Distinctive exhaust note and driving character
- • Excellent high-speed stability and handling for a convertible
Cons:
- • Very high fuel consumption and running costs
- • Expensive to maintain due to specialized Alpina components
- • Limited rear passenger space, typical for a 2+2 convertible
- • Firm ride might not appeal to all seeking ultimate comfort
- • High initial purchase price and insurance costs
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E36: 1992 - 1993).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Alpina |
| Model: | B6 |
| Generation: | Cabrio (E64) |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.4 V8 (500 Hp) Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production: | 2005 |
| End of production: | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 500 Hp @ 5500 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 113.7 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 700 Nm @ 4250 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 4398 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 92 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 82.7 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 18.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 12.8 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 4 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 310 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 3.9 kg/Hp, 259.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 2.8 kg/Nm, 362.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.7 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1930 |
| Max. weight: | 2350 |
| Max load: | 420 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 450 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 70 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4820 mm mm [495mm more] |
| Width: | 1855 mm mm [210mm more] |
| Height: | 1371 mm mm [1mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2780 mm mm [210mm more] |
| Front track: | 1558 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1598 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.4 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | Switch-Tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/35 R20 |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
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