Fine-tuning the 7 Series Chassis

Using the already advanced and sharp-handling 7 Series chassis, Alpina fine-tuned the hardware to the B7’s higher performance level. While retaining the regular models’ Active Roll Stabilization – which counters body roll or “lean” in corners via electronics and hydraulics – Alpina’s engineers, working with BMW and tire supplier Michelin, adopted a firmer calibration of springs and shock absorbers. They also chose the European 760i’s brakes, which have larger dimensions than those of the 750i.And, where the rubber meets the road, Alpina topped even the 2006 BMW 760i’s standard 20-in. wheels and tires. Right from the days of its participation in developing the lightweight BMW 3.0 CS of the early 1970s, Alpina has a long tradition of radial-spoke wheels; this carries on in the B7’s massive 21-in. wheels of 9.0-in. front/10.5-in. rear width with the traditional count of 20 slender spokes. These provide for outstanding ventilation of the big brake rotors, and carry Z-rated performance tires of 245/35 front / 285/30 rear dimensions.