[BMW5and7]

I have been trying to collect information about the changes that BMW/Alpina made for the Alpina B8. There isn’t a single resource that includes all this information in one place, so I collected this info from a number of reputable sources. I also emailed Alpina directly.

I know we do not have many B8 owners here, but for those interested, I collected the following info about Alpina B8:

• Over 200 new/different parts.
• Tires are special Alpina tires with noise-canceling foam.
• The engine is now fed by new and faster-spooling twin-scroll turbochargers.
• Alpina also fits uprated pistons and spark plugs.
• The cooling system is 50% larger than standard with new intercoolers.
• It has eight-speed gearbox from ZF (same as M8C) but it’s further improved with reinforced planetary wheels and extra cooling.
• The gearbox software is retuned for quicker shifts and to execute multiple downshifts in one action.
• The propshaft has been reinforced, and the torque-splitting characteristics of BMW’s xDrive system have been revised.
• The driveline ends with Alpina’s multi-spoke wheels, which are forged and 21” or 20” diameter, both wider than standard.
• For added comfort, and also to accomodate the deeper front splitter+extra cooling apparatusit has more ground clearance than the M850i / M8 by about 0.7-1”. The body kits hides it cosematically and completely
• Ride and handling is superior : The electromechanical steering has been recalibrated + The suspension geometry has been altered with greater negative camber.
• Alpina has fitted bespoke Eibach springs with its own tune of dampers.
• There are new hydromounts for the front struts.
• The last few points above are the reason for the oustanding Comfort Plus mode
• The B8 comes with new special Alpina’s sport rear differential.
• This is a reprogrammed version of the electronically controlled differential lock.
• Alpina has greater negative camber, for which at least one new link was required
• The active anti-roll bars and rear-axle steering have also been modified.
• These changes are aimed at improving stability and control.


Some additional info / reading materials (but that above has all what you need to know):
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe
https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/fileadmin/user_upload/PDF_Brochure/ALPINA_Models/2021_11_INT/B8/index.html#7
https://www.thealpinaregister.com/fo...ic.php?t=24985

[snowbimmer]

Wow. Nice job BMW5and7

[Frupal]

Fantastic post! I have now decided to get a B8 instead of an M8!

[Mgrae456]

I for the life of me don't understand why they didn't make the coupe and convertible.

[BMW5and7]

Originally Posted by Frupal

Fantastic post! I have now decided to get a B8 instead of an M8!

Do it : ) … Both are great cars, but the B8 is undeniable (ZERO compromises).

[Tenac]

This list is very similar to the M850 to M8 lists. Looks like the B8 follows the same recipe taking the M850 to the B8 by improving where the M8 does as well. Just only difference would be the engine itself S63 and tuning, but cooling and chassis as well as the ZF8 are all improved on both models. Makes you wonder if their tuning is for more comfort to encompass that GT than the M8 does. Great write up.

[STi from DSM]

Great write up bru! As I said before... The exhaust... Absolutely stunning.

[enemigo13]

can you tell where you’ve found that turbochargers and engine internals are different? alpina b8 used N63TU3 engine only afaik, while B5 used n63tu2 at first, so yes, N63TU2 has upgraded turbochargers and internals from alpina. but N63TU2 never went into 8er body. alpina versions with N63TU3 onboard - b5/b8/xb7 etc have all engine internals including rods stock (rods are same part no as F90), differences are in cooling only- inercoolers and radiators. spark plugs are same also, of course, as they are used in f90. you can find PDF made by alpina with changes and part numbers. N63TU3 is more than capable to produce 622 or 635hp (B5 GT) claimed by alpina with stock engine mechanics, so only minimal changes to powertrain were done.

Originally Posted by BMW5and7

I have been trying to collect information about the changes that BMW/Alpina made for the Alpina B8. There isn’t a single resource that includes all this information in one place, so I collected this info from a number of reputable sources. I also emailed Alpina directly.

I know we do not have many B8 owners here, but for those interested, I collected the following info about Alpina B8:

• Over 200 new/different parts.
• Tires are special Alpina tires with noise-canceling foam.
• The engine is now fed by new and faster-spooling twin-scroll turbochargers.
• Alpina also fits uprated pistons and spark plugs.
• The cooling system is 50% larger than standard with new intercoolers.
• It has eight-speed gearbox from ZF (same as M8C) but it’s further improved with reinforced planetary wheels and extra cooling.
• The gearbox software is retuned for quicker shifts and to execute multiple downshifts in one action.
• The propshaft has been reinforced, and the torque-splitting characteristics of BMW’s xDrive system have been revised.
• The driveline ends with Alpina’s multi-spoke wheels, which are forged and 21” or 20” diameter, both wider than standard.
• For added comfort, and also to accomodate the deeper front splitter+extra cooling apparatusit has more ground clearance than the M850i / M8 by about 0.7-1”. The body kits hides it cosematically and completely
• Ride and handling is superior : The electromechanical steering has been recalibrated + The suspension geometry has been altered with greater negative camber.
• Alpina has fitted bespoke Eibach springs with its own tune of dampers.
• There are new hydromounts for the front struts.
• The last few points above are the reason for the oustanding Comfort Plus mode
• The B8 comes with new special Alpina’s sport rear differential.
• This is a reprogrammed version of the electronically controlled differential lock.
• Alpina has greater negative camber, for which at least one new link was required
• The active anti-roll bars and rear-axle steering have also been modified.
• These changes are aimed at improving stability and control.


Some additional info / reading materials (but that above has all what you need to know):
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe
https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/fileadmin/user_upload/PDF_Brochure/ALPINA_Models/2021_11_INT/B8/index.html#7
https://www.thealpinaregister.com/fo...ic.php?t=24985

[BMW5and7]

Originally Posted by enemigo13

can you tell where you’ve found that turbochargers and engine internals are different? alpina b8 used N63TU3 engine only afaik, while B5 used n63tu2 at first, so yes, N63TU2 has upgraded turbochargers and internals from alpina. but N63TU2 never went into 8er body. alpina versions with N63TU3 onboard - b5/b8/xb7 etc have all engine internals including rods stock (rods are same part no as F90), differences are in cooling only- inercoolers and radiators. spark plugs are same also, of course, as they are used in f90. you can find PDF made by alpina with changes and part numbers. N63TU3 is more than capable to produce 622 or 635hp (B5 GT) claimed by alpina with stock engine mechanics, so only minimal changes to powertrain were done.

I’ve already shared some of my references, and I also had the privilege of speaking directly with Alpina, who were incredibly kind and accommodating in our conversation. They confirmed my understanding of the changes made to the B8. Your assumptions are entirely incorrect. The actual changes far exceed what I’ve listed or found.

Not only are the engine internals different, but even minor details like the rubber seal around the engine have been changed. I can see them thicker and have the Alpina stamp, which is intended for better wind isolation. The rubber around the headlights is also different and thicker.

As for the turbochargers (edit: charge air cooler, was typo/incomplete sentence), I didn’t even need to ask. Visually I can see them as they appear different, larger, and have the Alpina stamp. In addition to the list I shared, Alpina made numerous internal engine modifications that I didn’t mention in my discussion with them. According to them, there are over 200 different parts overall. You’re also mistaken, even spark plugs aren’t the same.

The transmission also underwent mechanical upgrades, as I’ve already mentioned.

I’m puzzled why you posted your comment without providing any specific details about the 8-series. I had already shared references and mentioned that I had spoken directly with Alpina. While it’s possible to tune the stock engine to achieve over 600+ horsepower, according to Alpina, that was not their sole objective anyway (it was one out of many). Their goal was also to enhance the reliability of the vehicle when/if driven as a sport car or family hauler. You can watch some of their videos to understand that their focus was always on improving the car’s overall performance but also reliability and comfort, not just tuning it. Alpina spent 2-3 years testing their own engine upgrades before they released the B8.

Apart from the major changes, they even went as far as providing a special upgraded leather wallet for the manuals in the glove box. The floor mats are also significantly thicker. Alpina invested heavily in this car, including minor details like the black reflectors that you can see around the arc of the wider wheels.

For a quick summary, you can also check this very good article by a highly reputable car website (they reported very similar info): https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe

[enemigo13]

It is very cool that you "spoke directly to Alpina" and reading serious cars magazines, but probably best idea would be just to open BMW parts catalogue and check which parts are from BMW ag and which aren't. If they aren't - it is written "This component can be ordered exclusively through ALPINA. Please specify ALPINA article number when ordering." And you will not have them listed in usual bmw models compatibility list. About turbos - uploading B8 turbo part number screenshot from catalogue. do you have one? If you have and will check part no you will see that it is same part no as in any M50i 390kw no matter in which body it is. Also attaching official Alpina G30 B5 LCI parts catalogue PDF : "Only ALPINA parts and not clear percetible BMW parts which are different to the basic car are listed. For BMW parts the BMW parts catalogue has to be used." So, if you'll find different looking turbochargers with alpina stamp in this catalogue - please let me know. I think you mismatched it with engine cover where indeed are alpina logos stamped and it is different part number and it is of course stated in alpina and bmw catalogues. So let's stop spreading conspiracy theories and talk facts.

Originally Posted by BMW5and7

I’ve already shared some of my references, and I also had the privilege of speaking directly with Alpina, who were incredibly kind and accommodating in our conversation. They confirmed my understanding of the changes made to the B8. Your assumptions are entirely incorrect. The actual changes far exceed what I’ve listed or found.

Not only are the engine internals different, but even minor details like the rubber seal around the engine have been changed. I can see them thicker and have the Alpina stamp, which is intended for better wind isolation. The rubber around the headlights is also different and thicker.

As for the turbochargers, I didn’t even need to ask. Visually I can see them as they appear different, larger, and have the Alpina stamp. In addition to the list I shared, Alpina made numerous internal engine modifications that I didn’t mention in my discussion with them. According to them, there are over 200 different parts overall. You’re also mistaken, even spark plugs aren’t the same.

The transmission also underwent mechanical upgrades, as I’ve already mentioned.

I’m puzzled why you posted your comment without providing any specific details about the 8-series. I had already shared references and mentioned that I had spoken directly with Alpina. While it’s possible to tune the stock engine to achieve over 600+ horsepower, according to Alpina, that was not their sole objective anyway (it was one out of many). Their goal was also to enhance the reliability of the vehicle when/if driven as a sport car or family hauler. You can watch some of their videos to understand that their focus was always on improving the car’s overall performance but also reliability and comfort, not just tuning it. Alpina spent 2-3 years testing their own engine upgrades before they released the B8.

Apart from the major changes, they even went as far as providing a special upgraded leather wallet for the manuals in the glove box. The floor mats are also significantly thicker. Alpina invested heavily in this car, including minor details like the black reflectors that you can see around the arc of the wider wheels.

For a quick summary, you can also check this very good article by a highly reputable car website (they reported very similar info): https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe

[pbonsalb]

Maybe Alpina is borrowing from the M5/8 parts bin? I read somewhere they use the M5/8 twin scroll turbos and manifolds. Not sure about the rest. One of the fastest M5s uses stock M5/8 intercoolers and testing has shown the fancy aftermarket intercoolers like CSF don’t help except on significantly modded cars. M5/8 cooling systems are also very robust. A few M5 owners track their cars and have no cooling issues.

B5/8 certainly are a little different, though, and it is important to some to have a car they feel is more rare or special. The only aspect that might be interesting to me is that the B5/8 is a little more comfortable than the M5/8.

[BMW5and7]

Originally Posted by enemigo13

It is very cool that you "spoke directly to Alpina" and reading serious cars magazines, but probably best idea would be just to open BMW parts catalogue and check which parts are from BMW ag and which aren't.

The B5 PDF document you shared is irrelevant. If you can find the B8 PDF, which I doubt you have based on what you said, we can talk then. I don’t see any reason to beleive a random dude on a forum when I had provided at least provided references and also spoke to Alpina directly. I didn’t provide a list or part by part list of which componenets were changed not that I claim I have a part by part list. So referencing one componenet (aka turbochargers) and making a major conclusion around it is also irrelevant.

[BMW5and7]

Originally Posted by pbonsalb

Maybe Alpina is borrowing from the M5/8 parts bin? I read somewhere they use the M5/8 twin scroll turbos and manifolds. Not sure about the rest. One of the fastest M5s uses stock M5/8 intercoolers and testing has shown the fancy aftermarket intercoolers like CSF don’t help except on significantly modded cars. M5/8 cooling systems are also very robust. A few M5 owners track their cars and have no cooling issues.

B5/8 certainly are a little different, though, and it is important to some to have a car they feel is more rare or special. The only aspect that might be interesting to me is that the B5/8 is a little more comfortable than the M5/8.

Yup.. the main reason I picked the B8 is because of it’s comfort. As others recall, I was going with M850 first cause I wanted rear wheel steering and didn’t want a firm ride. When I found a B8, I knew that I can enjoy ultimate performance yet with superior comfort. I actually rarely ever floor my cars, so I am not the perfect owner for an Alpina frankly, but the comfort level i this car is just outstanding even compared to the M850.

[enemigo13]

yes, you're right, I don't see any reason to believe random dude on the forum who "talked to alpina" or "talked to UFO" directly. I uploaded official alpina document, what exact parts are different. ALL LIST. I uploaded screenshot from bmw parts catalogue made by BMW ag, what else do you need? ) if you'll look at earlier G30 B5 PDF (which I also have of course) you will see that turbochargers are swapped to another ones, some internals are different also, but it is N63TU2 not N63TU3, do you know what is n63tu2 or n63tu3 ? There are all swapped parts by Alpina in document I uploaded. You can see BMW part no or alpina part no (shorter). Same you can see in any BMW parts catalogue, you did not answer if you're able to use one or just talking to alpina directly and using info from yellow car magazines? about B8 PDF - so you really think that B8 engine is different in any way vs B5 LCI ? )) Can you show photos of these "alpina" stamped turbos in B8 body ? I'm asking again - if you don't have ANY facts, but just some rumours - please don't spread fake info.

Originally Posted by BMW5and7

The B5 PDF document you shared is irrelevant. If you can find the B8 PDF, which I doubt you have based on what you said, we can talk then. I don’t see any reason to beleive a random dude on a forum when I had provided at least provided references and also spoke to Alpina directly. I didn’t provide a list or part by part list of which componenets were changed not that I claim I have a part by part list. So referencing one componenet (aka turbochargers) and making a major conclusion around it is also irrelevant.

[enemigo13]

alpina uses stock N63TU3 turbos and manifolds, F9x are crossflow and turbos are without diverter valves. N63TU3 are using diverter valves so it is 5 seconds job to check it - lift engine cover and you'll see.

Originally Posted by pbonsalb

Maybe Alpina is borrowing from the M5/8 parts bin? I read somewhere they use the M5/8 twin scroll turbos and manifolds. Not sure about the rest. One of the fastest M5s uses stock M5/8 intercoolers and testing has shown the fancy aftermarket intercoolers like CSF don’t help except on significantly modded cars. M5/8 cooling systems are also very robust. A few M5 owners track their cars and have no cooling issues.

B5/8 certainly are a little different, though, and it is important to some to have a car they feel is more rare or special. The only aspect that might be interesting to me is that the B5/8 is a little more comfortable than the M5/8.

[BMW5and7]

Originally Posted by enemigo13

yes, you're right, I don't see any reason to believe random dude on the forum ..//.. if you'll look at earlier G30 B5 PDF (which I also have of course) you will see that turbochargers are swapped to another ones, some internals are different also, but it is N63TU2 not N63TU3, do you know what is n63tu2 or n63tu3 ? There are all swapped parts by Alpina in document I uploaded.

You uploaded a B5 document to make your point and then referred to the B8. If you're referencing the B8, upload the same for it to prove your claims, if you can (and I know you don't have similar PDF specific to the B8). I’ve outlined multiple items and changes I collected with references, including suspension and transmission upgrades, yet your focus remains solely on turbos. u could be wrong and u could be right, u made a point, thx u can move on. Whether they were swapped or not is one data point out of many claimed upgrades, and again I have no reason to believe you but will believe a B8 PDF document (same as B5 you shared which is irrelevant) if you have it and I know you don't.

Looking through your profile and previous posts, it seems there’s a recurring pattern of engaging with others in a snarky and often negative manner. Rather than promoting constructive dialogue, your tone often comes across as dismissive or disrespectful so I suggest you work on that for the sake of your personal life at least. For instance, there’s no need to doubt or challenge others’ knowledge in a condescending way. U don't even know how to talk to others in a respectful manner as per many of your pasts (in return to what you said, I hope this is not how your personal life works as I'd be sorry to those around u) So let's assume u had no reason to be snarky, yes I am aware of the difference between an engine cover and an engine, and I do understand terms like N63TU2 and N63TU3 --> thanks for checking in "smart kid".... Next question is probably wheel vs tire. That seems to be the level of where you discussion with people is. I suggest you move in as I'll ignore going forward.

[pbonsalb]

I doubt there are any significant mechanical differences between the B5, B7 and B8 engines.

[enemigo13]

B5 and B8 engines _do_not_ have any mechanical differences, why I should keep uploading anything for you if you "talk directly to Alpina" and know everything better? You can believe in whatever you like, flat earth or chemtrails, but I'm asking just one thing - do not spread fake urban tales, if you don't have any clue about it and even unable to use basic parts catalogue. It is technical forum, it's not about birds and trees.

Yes, first 3 N63 generations including original siemens N63, bosch valvetronic N63TU and G series N63TU2 had upgraded turbochargers and internals (as they were weak), so it became a "rule" for every bmw guy, so they keep yelling the same about every alpina they see on the street. Reality : Alpina B5/B8/B7/XB7_pre_lci etc N63TU3 _do_not_ have any upgraded internals as N63TU3 already has rods from F90 (same part no) and much more powerful turbochargers vs N63TU2, supporting 700+ hp easily, so there was NO NEED to add anything. Cooling was changed, many other things in suspension etc was changed, I uploaded entire list, now you know.

e.g. Alpina B3/B4 has S58 engine, can you also tell that there are upgraded turbos or internals to support insane 529hp in B4 GT as usual M3 CS makes 550hp from the factory? No, there are no upgrades. No upgrades in XB7 LCI engine mechanics either, which is now alpina's only model utilizing S68, because there's _no_need_ for targeted horsepower. World has changed, alpina never had a chance to use S engines in the past, now they are using 2 of them, never had a chance to use M aerodynamics packages before, now they are using them, probably it is connected to alpina acquisition by bmw in 2022. Probably we'll see less interesting alpina models in the future, it is sad. Anyway, thanks for digging in my profile, now I'm not "random guy on the forum" for you I told that you are wrong about engine nicely and politely in my first post, but it did not work for you, you started talking in abusing manner. Now you know, "fake news" has stopped, good for you and for entire community, win/win situation. Good luck and have a nice day

Originally Posted by BMW5and7

You uploaded a B5 document to make your point and then referred to the B8. If you're referencing the B8, upload the same for it to prove your claims, if you can (and I know you don't have similar PDF specific to the B8). I’ve outlined multiple items and changes I collected with references, including suspension and transmission upgrades, yet your focus remains solely on turbos. u could be wrong and u could be right, u made a point, thx u can move on. Whether they were swapped or not is one data point out of many claimed upgrades, and again I have no reason to believe you but will believe a B8 PDF document (same as B5 you shared which is irrelevant) if you have it and I know you don't.

Looking through your profile and previous posts, it seems there’s a recurring pattern of engaging with others in a snarky and often negative manner. Rather than promoting constructive dialogue, your tone often comes across as dismissive or disrespectful so I suggest you work on that for the sake of your personal life at least. For instance, there’s no need to doubt or challenge others’ knowledge in a condescending way. U don't even know how to talk to others in a respectful manner as per many of your pasts (in return to what you said, I hope this is not how your personal life works as I'd be sorry to those around u) So let's assume u had no reason to be snarky, yes I am aware of the difference between an engine cover and an engine, and I do understand terms like N63TU2 and N63TU3 --> thanks for checking in "smart kid".... Next question is probably wheel vs tire. That seems to be the level of where you discussion with people is. I suggest you move in as I'll ignore going forward.

[Mani59]

Hi all,

Whatever your views, could I please remind all of the forum rules which you can find here and specifically:

1) Respect. By far the most important rule here. Through the generations of BMW, enthusiasts have come together for the love of the car and the community. So the basic rules of real life apply here, show each other respect and you will get respect as well. Don't bash someone else here because you feel like it. Derogatory or insulting remarks will not be tolerated. This applies to all corners of the site - including posts, profile visitor messages, and thread tags.

3) Disagree, don't attack. Disagree on topics, but try to leave it at that. Just because you don't like someones opinion on the car's engine, doesn't mean you should call him and his mother all sorts of names. Disagreements are awesome, and you should call someone on something you don't agree with, but don't go out of your way to insult and flame someone. Please consider if you would say to someone's face the same thing you are posting.

Thanks, Mani

[BMW5and7]

While it unfortunate that recent attempts to derail this thread have introduced a disrespectful tone (and thanks for the admin who responded to my report reminding everyone of the rules), I’d like to take this opportunity to reinforce the purpose of this discussion and provide further context with updated references to support the points I’ve made in my original post. I’ve revised the original post with additional citations from BMW Group press releases, reputable automotive journalists, and official Alpina sources (I provided a link to each where applicable). To ensure accuracy, I’ve also reached out (again) directly to Alpina service and technical contacts for clarification on some details (I wrote more about that below where applicable). Reminder: None of the claims in my post are my personal opinions or assumptions—they are entirely based on references, which I’ve listed for transparency (If anyone has doubts about these points, they’re welcome to contact the references I’ve provided directly). I’m also open to including any additional “B8-specific technical” documents and PDFs that anyone as, as long as they meet the thread's focus (B8 specific doc, not other alpine models B5/XB7 etc with a personal assumption that they are alike even if true). Anything I added here is B8 engine related document only unless otherwise noted.
The intent of this thread remains clear: to consolidate information about the Alpina B8 for owners and enthusiasts, with clear references that people can review and decides for themselves to read or ignore.

Below, you’ll find the revised version of the original post with updated citations and additional context. I hope this helps clarify the details and serves as a resource for anyone interested in learning more about the unique features and engineering of the B8.

HERE IS THE SAME OROGINAL THREAD WITH FURTHER REFERENCES:

I have been trying to collect information about the changes that BMW/Alpina made for the Alpina B8. There isn’t a single resource that includes all this information in one place, so I collected this info from a number of reputable sources. I also emailed Alpina directly.

I know we do not have many B8 owners here, but for those interested, I collected the following info about Alpina B8:
• Over 200 new/different parts.
• The maximum speed is 201 mph

o Reference: Official Alpina website, and my own vehicle lol

• Tires are special-designed Alpina tires mainly by Alpina engineers, partnering with Perilli as a manufacturer, to develop a tire specifically for the B8 with noise-canceling foam. It took ~ two and a half years to develop new tyres for a BMW ALPINA model. They “tried out at least 15 to 20 different tyre variants until the tyres were finally given the ALP marking” for the B8.

o Reference: https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/e...rtrait-heinle/
o Reference_2 (tires specially developed for the BMW ALPINA B8): https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/a...language=en_US

• The engine is now fed by new and faster-spooling twin-scroll turbochargers.

o Reference: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe
o Some folks claimed that part number for the turbocharger is the same as that in the B5, B7 and other vehicles with the N63TU3. While it can be true, the user failed to show a B8-specific Alpina Part PDF document but showed PDF for other Alpina’s (B5). He shared though a web screenshot for parts numbers, but again the comprehensive PDF was not for the B8. Anyone is free to contact Autocar directly, Alpina, or BMW-group press-release references below to challenge what they mean by any of their words. I provided them exactly as written by each. More info below. Note that no claims made about a different part # (and if I did, ignore that but am not saying the opposite either) - herein I specifically references the "optimized" and new "faster spooling" operation. More below.
o Additionally, the official Alpina B8 website (link below) states the following words “optimized turbocharging” system.
o Reference-2 by bmw-group press-release also referenced “optimized turbocharging”: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/a...language=en_US
o Communications with Alpina in Dec 2024 confirmed that there were upgrades made to turbochargers and confirmed that “faster-spooling” operation. What defines “new faster-spooling twin-scroll turbochargers” or “optimized” mentioned in a number of technical reviews is something I just emailed Alpina about to further explain following up on previous communications.
o Reference 3(BMWblog) "ALPINA replaces the N63’s pistons, turbochargers, intercooler, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, and exhaust" --> link:https://www.bmwblog.com/2021/11/10/t...w-m8-gran-who/

• Alpina also fits uprated pistons and spark plugs.

o Reference: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe
o Reference_2: communication with Alpina service as well as Axel Rimpler (Technical point of contact from Alpina). Additional question sent to confirm what the baseline is with regards to the (“uprated”) term.
o Alpina communications: standard 8-series N63 spark plugs will fit and part catalog will show them as applicable. B8 ships from factory with uprated spark plugs than can be ordered from Alpina. Requested uprated spark plug part numbers. On Jan 8, I sent further inquiry about the pistons.
Reference_3: Bimmerpost official press-release post authored by forum Admin introducing the B8 in 2021, follow up post by forum member FBMWWINS reporting “Pistons upgrade; Intercooler upgrade; Intake manifold; Exhaust manifold, Larger twin-scroll turbochargers”.
o Documentary video by Alpina on the “B7” shows an interview with Alpina team in the factory, showing . While this is related to the B7, you’re welcome to review this documentary made inside of Alpina factory about some of the engine and mechanical internal testing and upgrades.

• The cooling system is 50% larger than standard with new intercoolers.

o Reference: Well documented on Alpina website for the B8 specifically, and also reported in the bmw group press release

• It has eight-speed gearbox from ZF (same as M8C) but it’s further improved with reinforced planetary wheels and extra cooling (enlarged transmission oil cooler).

o Reference_1 Alpina review:

o Reference_2 https://www.**************.com/threa...n-coupe.62267/ --> note forum doesn't allow referencing other forums, so I can't promote the full link.
o Reference_3 by BMW Group “The latest 8HP76 transmission generation has undergone substantial development work in cooperation with the transmission specialists at ZF.”. Link: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/a...language=en_US

• The gearbox software is re-tuned for quicker shifts and to execute multiple downshifts in one action.

o Reference_1: https://www.**************.com/threa...n-coupe.62267/ --> note forum doesn't allow referencing other forums, so I can't promote the full link.
o Reference_2: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe

• The propshaft has been reinforced, and the torque-splitting characteristics of BMW’s xDrive system have been revised.
• The driveline ends with Alpina’s multi-spoke wheels, which are forged and 21” or 20” diameter, both wider than standard.
• For added comfort, and also to accomodate the deeper front splitter+extra cooling apparatusit has more ground clearance than the M850i / M8 by about 0.7-1”. The body kits hides it cosmetically
• Ride and handling is superior : The electromechanical steering has been recalibrated + The suspension geometry has been altered with greater negative camber.

o Reference_1 (BMW Group): https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/a...language=en_US
o Reference_2: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe

• Alpina has fitted bespoke Eibach springs with its own tune of dampers.

o Reference_1 (BMW Group): https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/a...language=en_US

• There are new hydromounts for the front struts. Refernece: BMW group press release
• The last few points above are the reason for the oustanding Comfort Plus mode
• The B8 comes with new special Alpina’s sport rear differential.
• This is a reprogrammed version of the electronically controlled differential lock.
• Alpina has greater negative camber, for which at least one new link was required
• The active anti-roll bars and rear-axle steering have also been modified.
• These changes are aimed at improving stability and control.

[pbonsalb]

Originally Posted by BMW5and7;31767040
[B

Alpina also fits uprated pistons and spark plugs.[/B][INDENT]o Reference: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review.../b8-gran-coupe
o Reference_2: communication with Alpina service as well as Axel Rimpler (Technical point of contact from Alpina). Additional question sent to confirm what the baseline is with regards to the (“uprated”) term.
o Alpina communications: standard 8-series N63 spark plugs will fit and part catalog will show them as applicable. B8 ships from factory with uprated spark plugs than can be ordered from Alpina. Requested uprated spark plug part numbers. On Jan 8, I sent further inquiry about the pistons.
Reference_3: Bimmerpost official press-release post authored by forum Admin introducing the B8 in 2021, follow up post by forum member FBMWWINS reporting “Pistons upgrade; Intercooler upgrade; Intake manifold; Exhaust manifold, Larger twin-scroll turbochargers”.

Seems like the spark plugs are regular M550/850/M5/8 plugs.
https://www.bmwpartshub.com/oem-parts/bmw-spark-plug-12120057704?origin=pla&srsltid=AfmBOoqmvtcuJtrqcF9 _85CIWqpL47Cfks-g4GqpgveGsIT9hQT6k5mNMTA

I am curious about the intake manifold upgrade. I doubt there is one. Likely an M5/8 or M550/850 part. Same for the turbo manifolds.

There is a lot of misleading info here and a lot of your secondary sources are probably just repeating the same misleading info. As we have seen in the news, though, if you make stuff up long enough, you and others might start believing it.

[BMW5and7]

Originally Posted by pbonsalb

Seems like the spark plugs are regular M550/850/M5/8 plugs.
https://www.bmwpartshub.com/oem-part...IT9hQT6k5mNMTA

I am curious about the intake manifold upgrade. I doubt there is one. Likely an M5/8 or M550/850 part. Same for the turbo manifolds.

The intake manifold upgrade is certainly a questionable claim and, to clarify, it is not included in the main bullet list I shared. It was mentioned briefly in the thread, where I referenced when it was discussed in another thread in this forum, but it remains unverified and is excluded from my primary list as you can tell. However, note that BMWBlog has reported/confirmed upgraded intake manifolds here: link:https://www.bmwblog.com/2021/11/10/t...w-m8-gran-who/ . Again, because how hard it was to confirm that, it was NOT on the bullets in my original post (and it's still not listed).

The majority of the bullet points I’ve listed are backed by official BMW Group press releases with links, making them solid and confirmed. However, the point about spark plug upgrades remains uncertain, I agree. My communication with Alpina confirmed that they offer uprated spark plugs that can be ordered, but standard spark plugs also fit the vehicle perfectly. Whether B8 models are shipped with uprated spark plugs or standard ones is something I cannot confirm at this time but I asked them. I suspect they are shipped with standard spark plugs, but uprated versions are an available option. I will update this thread once I hear back from Alpina or replace my own spark plugs.

As for the "charge air cooler," its upgrade and enlargement are well-documented. This is available through various parts sources and is also explicitly stated in the official BMW press release provided.

The turbochargers, however, remain another questionable point. It’s entirely possible they are the same as those in the M8 or M850i, but it’s equally plausible that they’ve been modified for the B8. There is clear references to "operational/performance" refinement/improvements (which may or may not refer to mechanical upgrades) in the official release that I copied as is. Without formal documentation from Alpina for the B8 specifically, this remains unverified at least to me so I am not claiming one case or the other. While there are several PDFs released by Alpina for the B5, no official document for the B8 has ever been shared by anyone yet (of course BMW has website parts, but I'd love to also see official Alpina part docs just like that for the 5 and 7). I’ve reached out to Alpina for clarification and will share any updates if and when I receive them. Note that in BMWBlog article, similar claims made about upgraded pistons, turbochargers, intake manifolds, etc --> link:https://www.bmwblog.com/2021/11/10/t...w-m8-gran-who/


Regarding suspension tuning and upgrades, these are clearly stated in the BMW press release and leave no room for doubt there.

In summary: The only unverified points from my original discussion are the turbo manifolds and turbochargers. All other claims are well-documented in official BMW Group press releases or other reliable sources. Just trying to be as cohesive as possible when labeling a claim as accurate or not. my post is very long, and it's worth noting specifically to only 1 or 2 points being questionable have nothing to do with the validity of the majority of all other points.