Is the BMW M8 Coupe not enough for you?
The 600-horsepower high-performance version of BMW’s 8 Series Gran Coupe comes with an active differential that constantly adjusts power output to each wheel to maximize traction and manages a 0-60 mph time of just 3 seconds despite its hefty size. But we understand, it might not be powerful enough.
Not to worry. BMW can still sell you a step up from there.
The 2022 edition of the Alpina B8 Gran Coupe will give you 612 horsepower and a higher top speed than the M8 (201 mph, vs. 190).
In case we’ve lost you, we should explain – there are multiple high-performance versions of some BMW cars. The German automaker builds its base car, which is usually quite an impressive performer and then lets its in-house tuner shop build a higher-performance M edition. On top of that, BMW maintains a close relationship with a tuner company that is not actually part of BMW itself, Alpina.
Alpina builds its own high-performance versions of BMW cars and often takes a slightly different approach to maximizing each car’s speed than the M division does. An M car and an Alpina BMW are both blisteringly quick and sumptuously appointed, but each takes its own approach to get there. You can buy each from your local BMW dealership.
They’re also both pricey. The 2021 M8 comes at an MSRP of $133,000 (plus a $995 destination fee). The Alpina B8 asks $139,900 (with the same fee).
The standard BMW-built M8 boasts a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 making 600 horsepower. The Alpina B8 carries a retuned version of the same engine, making 612. Alpina’s version carries 4-piston front brake calipers, while the M8 has six. The Alpina uses a mechanical limited-slip rear differential different from the electronically-controlled one in the M8.
The differences aren’t all mechanical. Outside, Alpina’s car gets a unique front spoiler, side skirts, and a reshaped rear bumper. Multispoke wheels, an Alpina signature, come wrapped in 21-inch high-performance summer tires.
Inside, the Alpina gets heated and cooled seats in a “natural” shade of leather, a unique instrument layout, a Harmon/Kardon audio system, panoramic sunroof, and a crystal shift knob. It will be available for order in late spring.
Got all that? Good. Here’s where we tell you there’s an M8 Competition Coupe model with 617 horsepower and a $146,000 price tag…
