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These are photographs of a spectacular new Alpina. Based on the BMW 3-series, the Alpina B8 4.6 is fitted with a 46 19cc V8 engine producing 248kw (.333bhp). The impressive power-to-weight ratio of 169kW/tonne.

(226bhp/ton) compares to 148Kw/tonne (199bhp/ton) for BMW's own M3. But it is Porsche that Alpina is really gunning for. The B8 4.6 is claimed to match the Carrera 2 from standstill to 1 O0kph (62mph) but will then go on to over 280kph (174mph) - 11 kph (7mph) faster than the German rival.

In addition, the engine is said to be extremely flexible - it is possible to accelerate at full throttle from 40kph (25mph) to maximum speed in sixth gear.

The B8 4.6 is only available in coupe or saloon body styles as the cabriolet lacks the necessary structural rigidity to cope with the power. A Getrag six-speed manual gearbox is fitted and the Alpina comes complete with automatic stability control plus traction (ASC+T).

The suspension is based on Bilstein dampers and Lucas braking components manufactured to Alpina's own design - 8x 1 7in at the front with 235/40 Michelin tyres and 9xl7in at the rear with 265/35 rubber. Exterior styling is subtle in keeping with the Bavarian's company s tradition and is restricted to a front spoiler, rear wing and special metallic paint.

The only item that distinguishes the B8 4.6 from its 3-litre B3 cousin is a bootlid badge. The Alpina B8 4.6 will cost around £65,000 in the UK and is only available in left-hand drive.

MCP Motorsport 1999/2000/2001 Last Page Update 1st February 2001