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500HP, Tweaked Chassis, and Bodykit Create Uber 7
Though announced by BMW North America last year, the BMW Alpina B7 finally arrived at the 2007 Chicago auto show. The B7 Alpina is a superfast version of the regular-wheelbase 750i, created by longtime BMW tuner Alpina from the 750i and fully warranted by BMW. The prior 745i was offered with a 325HP 4.4L Valvetronic V8, and it is this engine that Alpina supercharged to 500HP and 516 lb-ft. of torque. To go along with the power, the B7 Alpina sports cosmetic cues and Alpina badges inside and out.

Along with supercharging a Valvetronic engine for the first time, which required specific engine enhancements, Alpina tweaked the suspension. There is firmer calibration of springs and shock absorbers, created a new exhaust system, the 7’s Active Roll Stabilization for countering body roll in corners, the European 760i’s larger brakes, and twenty-inch wheels and tires. Alpina strengthened the differential, but the full torque is still limited to the first two gears of the six-speed automatic transmission.

Outside, B7 Alpina’s subtle cues include a specific front bumper and spoiler, twenty-spoke Alpina wheels, a rear spoiler, and Alpina B7 badges. As pictured, the traditional Alpina blue metallic paint is available. Interior touches include B7 doorsill trim, blue background color for the instrument cluster, and Alpina lettering. The steering wheel sports an Alpina logo, is trimmed with Lavalina leather, and has upshift/downshift buttons.

For its nearly $116,000 price tag, the B7 Alpina makes 7-Series options like Sirius radio, Comfort Access (keyless entry and start), heated rear seats, and the uplevel Logic7 audio system standard. The only options the B7 Alpina offers are active cruise control, rear-seat entertainment system, high-definition radio, and an enhanced night vision system.
Why Not an M7?
Alpina has been tricking out BMW’s since 1964, though better-known in Europe and BMW enthusiast circles. The only Alpina-modified BMW offered to U.S. buyers so far was a version of the BMW Z8 roadster, which only 450 buyers were able to get.
So, Alpina has a long BMW history, but why not use the M division to create a super 7? According to BMW, because Alpina focuses on high performance with moderate rpm and automatic transmissions, more appropriate to a luxury sedan like the 7-Series. The M division is known for high-performance, with high-revving engines and either manual or SMG transmissions.