How hard is firm?

[dodgyken]

Well I went test driving today.

Despite snow on the ground and a near constant snow storm I went out in a Nissan X-trail. Function is the key word here - and it appears large enough to take everything I need for 2010. It certainly moves OK - and feel comfortable enough at motorway speeds. The 2.2 diesel pushes out 136ps and feels good for it. The 6-speed box is well spaced.

Then it was the Alpina Roadster - roof down - still with light snow coming down - out I went. I used almost full throttle a couple of times. And in the tunnels it sounded insanely good. But what about the ride. It is softer than a 3.0 on rft and M-suspension. It is firm - it is hard - but it is controlled and well judged.

We are negotiating the finer details of the numbers at the moment

[dodgyken]

Turns out that Alpina 212 was one of Alpinas press cars - still - I have been reassured that they get a very thorough double check once back at Buchloe before being sold!

Which does mean what you think it means

Link to Road test pictures

I have emailed Alpina for details of the original car - and I will also chase them up for a press pack indicating who had it when. I was busy at work today

I also found a modified 3.0 Z4 which I reckon looks pretty interesting!

[PeteH]

Sounds interesting Neil!

I hope that they reflect the 'press car' status in their final figures on the car as its not exactly a desirable feature! I'd also ask Alpina what exactly they do when they 'double check' them on the their return to Buchloe. At the very least I would expect a replacement clutch, engine & drivetrain oils and a set of pads. The most crucial thing is that it had its 1200 service BEFORE being released to the wild animals that are journalists!

Not wishing to worry you but I remember a couple of them being smashed to pieces on some road tests. It might be worth checking out http://www.thealpinaregister.com/ they are a great bunch of guys and might be able to help you out with some of the cars history.

I can't read the German on the modified Z4 advert but I'm presuming its in Matt Black?

[dodgyken]

Some info came from the Register and some from the Board - both sites I have been a member of for quite a while

I will speak with Alpina today - in german don't you know

[pvr]

They updated the car with the later lights etc? Thought all Alpina's came with the orange indicators.

[dodgyken]

They updated the car with the later lights etc? Thought all Alpina's came with the orange indicators.

Alpina is closed until the 10th January. The first 2 service stamps are from the factory though - and it did 17000km until the 3rd service.