The 1979 BMW Alpina B6 is a rare artifact from the era when Alpina was transitioning from a renowned racing firm to a full-fledged vehicle manufacturer. Built on the nimble E21 chassis, this specific car is number 66 of only 533 produced, representing a significant chapter in the lineage of high-performance BMWs. While it retains its authentic Alpina identity, it has been thoughtfully enhanced with a Metric Mechanic powerplant that significantly exceeds original factory performance. Now finished in a deep metallic blue, this B6 successfully offers a visceral and authoritative driving experience that honors its heritage while providing the mechanical reliability and punch of a modern build.
Tanzanite Blue Metallic and Classic Alpina Decals
The exterior visual character of this 1979 BMW Alpina B6 has evolved from its original Topaz Brown to a striking Tanzanite Blue Metallic finish. The car’s silhouette is accentuated by iconic Alpina stripes added in April 2026, perfectly complementing the re-chromed Euro-spec bumpers and 15-inch staggered Alpina wheels. To protect its twice-refinished paintwork, the body has been treated with paint protection film on all major surfaces except the roof. The stance is lower and more purposeful than a standard E21, thanks to H&R springs and Bilstein dampers, ensuring that this B6 remains as visually commanding at a standstill as it is at full tilt on a canyon road.
Recaro Support and Alpina Aesthetic Details
Inside the cabin, the 1979 BMW Alpina B6 features a masterfully preserved black cloth interior accented by signature Alpina blue and green striping on the Recaro front seats. The driver is greeted by a 380mm four-spoke MOMO steering wheel and an engine-turned shift knob, while a 260 km/h speedometer serves as a constant reminder of the car’s performance capabilities. The environment is further enhanced by salt-and-pepper carpets, a fresh headliner, and a period-correct Blaupunkt AM/FM stereo. For the focused driver, auxiliary VDO gauges are integrated into the center stack, providing real-time data on the engine’s vitals during spirited operation.
Metric Mechanic 3.8L M30 and Limited-Slip Power
Performance is anchored by a 3.8-liter M30 inline-six retrofitted in 2005 and built to “3800 Rally” specifications by Metric Mechanic. This high-compression unit features H-beam connecting rods and tri-metal bearings, delivering a factory benchmark of 285 hp/289 PS. Power is funneled through a lightweight flywheel and a five-speed manual transmission to a 3.45:1 limited-slip differential. The engine breathes through a specialized Alpina tubular header and a dual exhaust system with MagnaFlow mufflers, producing a mechanical soundtrack that is both deep and authoritative. Zinc-plated calipers and an adjustable rear sway bar ensure the chassis can successfully manage the significant power increase over a stock B6.
| Technical Overview | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L M30 Inline-Six (Metric Mechanic) |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Output | 285 hp/289 PS (Factory Benchmark) |
| Rear End | 3.45:1 Limited-Slip Differential |
| Odometer | 87,000 Kilometers (~54,000 Miles) |
| Production | #66 of 533 Units |
Alpina Classic Provenance and California Status
The market for the 1979 BMW Alpina B6 is increasingly driven by collectors who value the intersection of E21 agility and Alpina’s engineering pedigree. This example is well-documented with a reproduction window sticker from Alpina Classic and has been under the care of its current seller for the past four years. While it successfully passed a California smog test in April 2026, potential buyers should note that the high-performance engine swap has not been formally inspected by the Bureau of Automotive Repair. Despite this, the car’s rarity as a double-digit serial number and its extensive list of suspension and drivetrain upgrades make it a blue-chip asset for any serious BMW enthusiast.
The Ultimate E21-Platform Enthusiast Machine
In summary, the 1979 BMW Alpina B6 is a masterclass in German tuning, successfully merging the vintage appeal of the E21 with a formidable rally-spec powertrain. It successfully offers a visceral and authoritative presence on the road that remains a benchmark for the early Alpina era. From the glint of the 15-inch multi-spoke wheels to the smooth engagement of the 3.45 limited-slip diff, every mile is a celebration of BMW’s engineering ambition. This Tanzanite Blue sedan is more than just a classic car; it is a rolling testament to the golden age of analog performance, ready to provide its next owner with the unmistakable pride of owning a true Alpina icon.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
