BMW tuner par excellence Alpina is returning to the motor racing scene for the first time in two decades with the new B6 GT3, which the pseudo-works firm unveiled for the first time here at the Geneva Motor Show. Based on the 6 Series, the B6 GT3 features a unique radial supercharger fitted to its 4.4-liter V8 to drive 530 horsepower to the rear wheels – in proper Bavarian style – in what looks to be a compelling competition package.
Alpina itself will be fielding a pair in the European FIA GT3 series and at "selected 24-hour endurance races" (Nurburgring, Le Mans... we're looking at you), but the B6 GT3 will also be offered to private teams. Alpina has fitted adjustable everything to the car and a full array of electronic control systems to ensure that gentlemen racers – not just professional drivers – will be able to handle it and so that the car will qualify for a wide array of racing series. We're looking forward to seeing the green menace tackling the Green Hell soon, but in the meantime had to content ourselves with checking it out at Alpina's show stand here in Geneva where it was displayed alongside the new B7 Bi-Turbo, which we'll have for you shortly. In the meantime, click on the thumbnails below to view our gallery from the show floor and follow the jump for a brief press release.
Photos Copyright ©2009 Noah Joseph / Weblogs, Inc.
PRESS RELEASE
Successfully Launched: The ALPINA B6 GT3
After a 20-year hiatus, ALPINA celebrate their return to racing with the BMW ALPINA B6 GT3, to compete in the FIA European GT3 championship. Based on the BMW 6 Series, ALPINA have developed a competitive weapon for touring-car racing that will be offered to clients, collectors and race teams alike. Furious forward pace is provided by the 4.4-litre V8 with radial compressor, taken from the BMW ALPINA B6 S. It yields 530 horsepower and 725Nm of torque.
At the end of January, upon completion of the first BMW ALPINA B6 GT3, the roll-out of B6 GT3 took place.
The race car debuted in freezing temperatures, yet mastered its first 300km brilliantly.
ALPINA will field two race cars in the FIA GT3 European Championship. Race cars are planned for customer race teams, and will compete in the FIA GT3 European Championship, as well as in national GT3 races in Belgium, Brazil, Germany, England, France and Italy. The VLN-sanctioned endurance series at the Nürburgring is also planned, as well as selected 24-hour endurance races.
Let's all get excited about a spectacular race car and an thrilling season!
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