The factor with which the new D3 Coupe is best compared to its rivals is its Power-To-Weight ratio; an equation commonly applied in motor sport. But, with heavily increased personal taxation designed to encourage energy saving and lowered emissions, the calculation is assuming wider relevance to drivers - especially those in the select niche at which this latest ALPINA is aimed.
As epitomised by the D3 Coupe, gaining extra performance simply by substituting a larger engine is alien to the ALPINA philosophy. Instead, the manufacturer, working closely with BMW, maximises the sporting potential of existing units.
ALPINA engineers have taken BMW's state-of-the-art twin turbo diesel engine from the 123d and increased power to 214hp; producing more horsepower per litre than any other engine in a current BMW or BMW ALPINA road car.
'Added lightness' makes a significant further contribution to the remarkable figures achieved by the new model.
The extra power, lightness of the engine, plus additional weight saving technology means an overall power-to-weight ratio of 146hp per tonne – virtually matching BMW's own 330d Coupe.
The car is capable of 152mph and 0-62mph in 6.9 secs and yet the official fuel consumption and emission figures tell a very different story: 52.3mpg (overall EU) and 143g/km! (manual gearbox version).
This year, around one hundred lucky UK drivers will get all the performance and exclusivity they would expect from an ALPINA but with running costs (and, for company car drivers, benefit in kind charges) they could only dream of, until now.