Launched in March 1997, the Alpina B10 V8 was based on BMW's acclaimed E39-generation 5 Series and represented a high-performance alternative to the M5. Developed at Alpina's Buchloe headquarters, the B10 V8 featured extensive mechanical enhancements including a bespoke engine block, forged crankshaft, performance camshafts, high-compression Mahle pistons, and ported cylinder heads. Initially producing 340bhp and 470Nm of torque from its 4.6 litre V8.

Complementing the powertrain was a thoroughly reworked chassis setup: Alpina specified twin-tube dampers, thicker anti-roll bars, and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with floating calipers for confident, composed handling. Buyers could opt for either Saloon or Touring variants, with Alpina favouring their in-house developed five-speed 'Switch-Tronic' automatic transmission. In period testing, Auto Motor und Sport recorded a 0-62.5mph sprint in just 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 174mph. The B10 V8 proved a commercial success, with around 1,300 units produced globally across standard and 'S' versions. However, just 263 B10 V8 saloons were delivered new to the UK, and only a tiny fraction, believed to be 14, were finished in Velvet Blue, making this example particularly rare and desirable.

Originally supplied new by Sytner Alpina Nottingham, 'W187 VAU' is believed to be one of just 14 Alpina B10 V8 models finished in Velvet Blue and delivered to the UK. Thought to have cost close to £75,000 when new (including optional extras), this example boasts a high specification featuring: an electric sunroof, Champagne Nappa leather upholstery, electric and heated front seats, Anthracite headlining, Park Distance Control, satellite navigation, Xenon headlights, GSM car phone, six-disc CD changer, air conditioning and a Tracker system. The car returned to Sytner Nottingham for its crucial running-in service and is said to have been exclusively maintained by main dealers or marque specialists throughout its life.

Having spent the past six years in our vendor's private collection, stored in a heated garage, this high-performance saloon has reportedly benefited from a Gtechniq paint protection treatment, refurbished alloy wheels with correct-type Dunlop tyres, new suspension bushes, a transmission service, replacement MAF sensor, new spark plugs, and other careful maintenance. Warranted to have covered approximately 81,600 miles, 'W187 VAU' is described by the vendor as being in very good condition in all key areas including engine, automatic transmission, electrical systems, interior trim, bodywork, and paintwork. It is offered for sale complete with its original Alpina book pack, comprehensive history file, toolkit, jack, and glovebox torch, along with a valid MoT test certificate valid until February 2026. Consigned by Baljit Singh

Lot details
Year: 2000
Make: BMW
Model: Alpina B10 V8
Registration: W187 VAU
Chassis No: WAPBA46L10HF40736
Odometer: 81,817

* Number 736 of the Alpina B10 V8
* Believed to be one of 14 UK-supplied in Velvet Blue
* Exceptionally well-maintained