PRICE WHEN NEW: 129.000 MARK
NUMBER BUILT: 27
COLOR: ARCTIC SILVER METALLIC
OWNER: ROBERT TRAN
OWNED SINCE: 2021
LOCATION: NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
Robert Tran's journey into the world of high-performance automobiles began with a hands-on approach. Driven by curiosity and fueled by online communities dedicated to vehicle maintenance, he delved deep into the intricacies of car mechanics and encountered the name ALPINA. The idea that ALPINA had dared to shoehorn a V8 engine into a BMW E 36 3 Series struck a chord with Tran. It wasn't just impressive; it was, "the coolest thing ever." This discovery ignited a passion that would shape his automotive path for years to come.
This spark found fertile ground in 2005 when Robert joined the BMW Car Club of America. His first BMW, a 328i, wasn't merely a vehicle; it was a tangible link to a community of like-minded enthusiasts. Little did he know that this initial connection would eventually lead him toward the custodianship of automotive unicorns – two rare and coveted ALPINA Touring models.
The year 2020 saw Tran living in Europe for six months. Immersed in a land where ALPINA was prominent, he embarked on a quest. He sought an ALPINA that he could bring back to the United States, and his search culminated in the purchase of a 1996 ALPINA E36 B3 3.2 Touring. This was no ordinary car; it was number 23 of a mere 89 examples ever produced. Yet, for Tran, his ultimate automotive dream, was to own a E36 B8 4.6 Touring.
Upon his return to the States, news arrived of not one, but three ALPINA wagons unexpectedly available for purchase. Within days, Robert found himself back on German soil, embarking on a whirlwind pilgrimage to bring his dream car home. Robert did not skip the experience of driving it on the Autobahn, capturing a photo of the speedometer needle kissing 165 miles per hour. The thrill of that drive was a moment he would never forget.