In March 1991 at the Geneva Motorshow, Alpina introduced the B6 2.8/2. The B6 2.8 is based on the BMW 325i with modified 2.8 liter engine. With this model, Alpina offered a high-performance version of the E36, the third-generation 3-series, almost 2 years before the M3 3.0 was introduced.

In 1993, the B6 2.8/2 was replaced by the B3 3.0

When the third-generation BMW 3-series was introduced, the old 12-valve six-cylinder engines were replaced by new 24-valve M50 units. The 325i – the top of the line car in the E36 3-series range at that time – had a 2,5 liter engine which produced 192 bhp.

Alpina increased the displacement on the BMW engine to 2.8 liter. They also fitted new camshafts, Mahle pistons and a new exhaust system. Together with some other minor changes, the Alpina 2.8 liter engine produces 240 bhp. The torque is up to 293 Nm from 240 Nm.

Standard was a 5-speed ZF manual gearbox, optionally a 5-speed Automatic was available.

The BMW E36 is a very fine-riding car thanks to it´s advanced rear axle. It has class-leading handling and is rewarding to drive. But here Alpina has gone at least two steps further. They have fitted new Bilstein gas-pressure spring units at front and Bilstein gas-pressure shocks at rear. The B6 handles like a performance car should and rides nearly as good as an ordinary 3-series. The grip is great thanks to the wide tires, 235/40 17 at front and 265/35 17 at rear.

The brakes are uprated at front with bigger, ventilated discs.

Inside the car, Alpina has fitted new seats with blue and green stripes, a new leather steering-wheel, a gear-lever made of wood and new instruments. The exterior changes include a new front spoiler, rear spoiler and the Alpina wheels. The stripes, in gold or silver, are optional, as well as Alpina Blue and Alpina Green paint colors.

Alpina claimed a 0-100 km/h time of 6,9 seconds and a top speed of over 250 km/h.

However Auto Motor und Sport´s test showed the B6 2.8 to be even faster. 0-100 km/h in 6,4 seconds, 0-160 km/h in 15,7, 0-200 km/h in 28 seconds and a top speed of 253 km/h.

The first car was delivered in March 1992 and the production continued until July 1993.
A total of around 180 Limousines and 40 Coupes were built.

Between 1996 and 1998, a Japan-only version of the B6 2.8 was built – the B6 2.8 Touring.