30 Apr 01
What these figures can't convey, though, is the engine's extraordinary mid-range flexibility. Peak torque is available all the way from 1800-3500 rpm, providing a sublime source of overtaking potential. The engine is also uncannily smooth: free of diesel clatter at idle, its note barely alters throughout the rev range. However, occupants are denied the wonderfully rich engine note that accompanies petrol Alpinas and the driver will lament the slight hesitation between a prod of the throttle and the engine's response.
The D10 rides more firmly than the standard 5-Series but the trade-off is magnificent body control. The steering enlivens the experience, describing the minutiae of the road surface without ever feeling nervous. Also worthy of praise is the Switch-tronic gearbox. This allows semi-automatic shifts through buttons mounted at a quarter-to-three behind the steering wheel. The downshifts, in particular, are exceptionally smooth.
The aesthetic modifications are subtle. Alpina's trademark 18 in alloys are standard and so is a smart chin spoiler. Inside, there's a new steering wheel with Alpina green and blue trim, revised wood inserts and an identification plaque. However, there's a huge array of extras for customers seeking to personalise their car.
At £41,850 in manual form or £43,850 with Switchtronic, the D10 is far from cheap. It's also £4820 more than the exquisite and right-hand-drive B10 3.3 petrol. As a transcontinental express or for company-car drivers worried about the new emissions-based Benefit in Kind tax, the D10 has the edge, but for the enthusiast, the petrol-engined car remains the better choice.
