Why Would Anyone Choose a High-Mileage Diesel Alpina Over Something Sensible?
Let’s be honest—most people wouldn’t look twice at a 17-year-old, 168,000-mile diesel wagon when shopping for their next car. Practicality, reliability, and resale value usually top the list of concerns. So why did I, with a few years of driving under my belt and a soft spot for the unusual, jump at the chance to buy an Alpina D3 Touring? It’s not just about being different for the sake of it. There’s a method to the madness.
First, there’s the economy. This car sips fuel, regularly returning 50mpg, which is impressive for something with a badge as storied as Alpina’s. It’s also practical—plenty of room for the dogs, who seem to enjoy the plush Oxydbraun leather as much as I do. And then there’s the depreciation factor. Cars like this, with their rarity and cult following, tend to hold their value surprisingly well, especially compared to more mainstream alternatives.
Of course, not everyone sees it that way. My dad, for instance, thinks I’ve lost the plot. After all, it’s an old BMW (though I’d never call it that in front of an Alpina purist), with a long list of previous owners and a mileage figure that would make most buyers run for the hills. But when your alternatives are all Alfa Romeos, you’re clearly not shopping with your head alone.
What’s It Like to Drive a 17-Year-Old Alpina D3 Across Europe?
If you’ve ever wondered whether a high-mileage diesel can still deliver the goods on a long-haul road trip, let me put your mind at ease. I recently took my D3 on a nearly 1,500-mile round trip to the French Alps. The outcome? Game-changing.
Despite its age, the D3 averaged 44mpg at a brisk 80mph, meaning we only had to stop for fuel twice. That’s the kind of efficiency that makes you appreciate diesel’s long-distance prowess. And while electric cars are making huge strides, there’s still something unbeatable about being able to cover that kind of distance with minimal stops and no range anxiety. Sure, you’ll see plenty of Teslas on the autoroute, but I can’t help but wonder how much longer their journey took, factoring in charging breaks.
Beyond the numbers, the D3 proved itself as a true grand tourer. Road noise was low, the sound system kept everyone entertained, and the ride was comfortable enough that my passengers were genuinely impressed. Even high in the mountains, the car felt composed—though I’ll admit, we were lucky with the weather. Rear-wheel drive and wide tires aren’t exactly a recipe for winter confidence, but we made it through unscathed.
Is the Diesel D3 Really a “Proper” Alpina?
This is the question that divides enthusiasts. Some see the E90-generation D3 as the black sheep of the Alpina family, especially when compared to the fire-breathing V8s of the past. In 1995, Alpina was dropping 4.6-liter engines into BMW 3 Series models. By 2007, they’d gone diesel. To some, that’s a letdown.
But context matters. In the early 2000s, Alpina needed a volume seller to keep the lights on. Enter the D3: a clever blend of BMW’s 2.0-liter diesel, a Garrett turbo, beefier injectors and intercooler from the 535d, and Alpina’s signature suspension tuning. The result? 197bhp, over 300lb ft of torque, and a 0-62mph time of 7.4 seconds—not headline-grabbing today, but perfectly respectable back then.
Only about 2,000 D3s were built over eight years. That’s a drop in the ocean for most carmakers, but for Alpina, it was a lifeline. And it’s not just me who thinks the D3 deserves its place in the lineup. Carina Bovensiepen, granddaughter of Alpina’s founder, owns one herself. For her, long-distance touring and fuel efficiency are core to Alpina’s philosophy. If it’s good enough for the Bovensiepen family, it’s good enough for me.
What’s the Real Cost of Running a Classic Alpina?
Let’s not sugarcoat it: running a rare, older performance car isn’t cheap. I recently decided to treat the D3 to a round of preventative maintenance—new dampers, springs, brake pads, discs, and rear calipers. The bill? About £3,000. Not exactly pocket change, but I’ve always believed in replacing parts in sets, especially on a car that’s going to see plenty of miles.
There were a few hiccups along the way—incorrect springs, for one—but that’s par for the course with low-volume, specialist models. Still, once everything was sorted, the D3 felt transformed. On a recent road trip to Wales, it held its own against some of the best hot hatches around, including the Ford Fiesta ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7. It might not have quite the agility of the smaller cars, but it more than made up for it with comfort, efficiency, and sheer character.
Is It Worth It? Here’s What I’ve Learned
So, after all the miles, the bills, and the sideways glances from friends and family, would I do it again? Absolutely. The D3 isn’t perfect—it’s cost me more than I’d hoped, and sourcing parts can be a headache. But as an all-rounder, it’s hard to beat. It’s efficient, practical, rare, and endlessly rewarding to drive.
If you’re considering a high-mileage, left-field classic, don’t let the naysayers put you off. Yes, you’ll need a sense of humor and a bit of patience. But the payoff—a car with real soul, history, and everyday usability—is more than worth it. Sometimes, the sensible choice isn’t the most obvious one. And that’s exactly what makes it so satisfying.