Alpina B5 Edition 50 marks 50 years at Geneva Motor Show
Alpina has unveiled the limited-run B5 Edition 50 at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, celebrating its half-century with 600hp and exclusive detailing.
Alpina used the 2015 Geneva Motor Show to debut the B5 Edition 50, a special performance saloon created to mark the company’s 50th anniversary. This limited-run model demonstrates Alpina’s philosophy of blending discreet styling with significant performance enhancements. With only 100 units produced for the global market, the B5 Edition 50 is set to become one of the rarest models in Alpina’s history.
Introduction to the Alpina B5 Edition 50
Performance and Engineering Upgrades
The B5 Edition 50 is based on the standard Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo, but several mechanical upgrades distinguish it from its sibling. At the heart of the Edition 50 is a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, now producing 600hp and 800Nm of torque. This power increase places the Edition 50 firmly in super-saloon territory, offering acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 330km/h. These figures make it one of the fastest vehicles Alpina has ever built.
Weight reduction was a key focus during development. The Edition 50 features forged wheels that are 15.6kg lighter than the standard 20-inch rims. This reduction in unsprung mass improves both handling and ride quality. The chassis has also been tuned to complement the lighter wheels, with revised damper and control systems for enhanced driving dynamics. Buyers can opt for performance brakes with four-piston calipers and Brembo 395mm discs at the front, as well as a mechanical limited-slip differential for improved traction.
Further contributing to the car’s performance credentials is a titanium exhaust system supplied by Akrapovic. This system not only saves additional weight but also enhances the engine’s sound, providing a more engaging driving experience. Carbon fibre panels are used in select areas to further reduce mass and increase rigidity.
Distinctive Interior and Special Features
Inside, the B5 Edition 50 receives a heritage-inspired interior treatment. The seats are upholstered in black and green, featuring diamond-quilted centre panels in yellow and black. The dashboard is finished with piano lacquer wood trim, adding to the sense of occasion. Each car carries unique Edition 50 badging, and the cabin is further personalised with an autograph from Alpina’s managing director, Andreas Bovensiepen. Silver Alpina emblems throughout the interior reinforce the model’s exclusive status.
Buyers could also specify the optional heritage interior package, which adds further bespoke touches to the cabin. These include special backrest centre panels and additional Edition 50 details, ensuring that each example is highly individual. The combination of unique interior elements and limited production makes the Edition 50 especially appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Production and Rarity
Production of the Alpina B5 Edition 50 is strictly limited to 100 units worldwide. This exclusivity ensures that the Edition 50 will remain a sought-after model for years to come. Alongside the B5, Alpina also produced the B6 Biturbo Edition 50, with both models sharing the same technical upgrades and limited production run. The Edition 50’s rarity is further underlined by its unique specification and the attention to detail that has gone into its creation.
Position in the Market
The Alpina B5 Edition 50 shares its basic platform with the BMW 5 Series, but its extensive modifications set it apart from the standard BMW M5 and other executive saloons. Alpina’s approach is characterised by subtle exterior styling combined with substantial performance upgrades. This philosophy appeals to buyers who prefer understated luxury and performance, rather than the more aggressive appearance of some rivals.
At the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the B5 Edition 50 was among several high-profile debuts, including other limited editions and performance models. Its launch highlighted Alpina’s commitment to creating exclusive, high-performance vehicles that cater to a discerning clientele.
Comparison with Other Alpina Models
The Edition 50 is not the only special model Alpina unveiled for its anniversary. The B6 Biturbo Edition 50 shares the same engine and performance upgrades, as well as similar interior treatments. Both models are produced in limited numbers, reinforcing Alpina’s reputation for exclusivity and attention to detail. These cars stand out within the Alpina range for their combination of power, luxury, and rarity.
Legacy and Collectability
With its blend of increased power, lighter wheels, upgraded brakes, and bespoke interior, the Alpina B5 Edition 50 is positioned as a true collector’s item. Owners benefit from a car that delivers impressive performance figures while maintaining the comfort and refinement Alpina is known for. As one of the rarest Alpina models ever produced, the Edition 50 is likely to be highly prized by enthusiasts and collectors in the future.
For those interested in other debuts from the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, notable launches included the MINI Park Lane Edition and the Radical RXC Turbo 500, both of which attracted attention for their unique features and limited availability.
