Alpina Repair & Service in Dubai

Manufacturer, VIN and production plaque

Because Alpina is registered as a manufacturer, its cars are identified as Alpinas, not BMWs. On Alpina-built cars the VIN starts with Alpina’s own manufacturer code (WAP); on documented examples the original BMW number (WBA) is struck through. A numbered production plaque in the cabin gives the car’s individual build number. When we assess or restore an Alpina, we check that VIN, plaque, paperwork and option codes agree — on a car valued for its originality, that consistency matters as much as the mechanicals.

What Alpina changes

Typical Alpina work includes engine software and hardware (turbochargers, intercooling, exhaust), extra cooling capacity, recalibrated ZF automatic gearboxes with Switch-Tronic controls, specific spring and damper tuning, larger brakes, the multi-spoke Alpina wheels with model-specific tyres, and interiors with Lavalina leather and numbered trim. Many parts are shared with BMW; the Alpina-specific ones are what make the car — and what take longer to source.

Modern models

B3 and B4 (3 and 4 Series base), B5 and B6, B7 and B8, the XB7 on the X7, and the diesel D3 and D5 models. Mechanically they follow the matching BMW engine and gearbox families — so known BMW topics such as cooling-system ageing, oil leaks and air-suspension wear on the larger cars apply — with Alpina’s higher outputs putting more load on cooling, brakes and tyres in Dubai heat.

Classic Alpinas and restoration

Older Alpinas (E24, E28, E30, E34 and E38-based cars) are collector cars. Restoration work centres on originality: correct deco stripes, the classic 20-spoke wheels refinished without damaging the hidden-valve design, interior trim, and paint matched to the original code. Parts specific to Alpina can be scarce, so preservation and refurbishment often come before replacement.

Alpina today

BMW acquired the Alpina brand in 2022; the cooperation with the Buchloe company ran until the end of 2025, and since 2026 the brand has been part of BMW as BMW Alpina. Existing cars remain Alpinas by registration, and the cars built in Buchloe are the ones collectors look for.