Had a brief look at a BMW Aspina today - V8, 20" wheels - and was quite impressed. Can't find much on the web. Does anybody have a working knowledge of this fine looking roadster?

 

I think you mean Alpina not Aspina. Check this out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpina

 

Yes, it is Alpina, they came out with a 7 series they sold through the Bimmer dealer network that was pretty sweet. Great interior, exterior, and engine/suspension mods, very classy for a 'racer'.

I have not seen one of the newer alpina roadsters, but no doubt are they exquisite and over priced....

 

I dug a little further, and studied the BMW Alpina Z8 produced around 2002 - 2003. It has an early Jag-like design unlike the typical look of BMW. It is a truly beautiful roadster. Road tests of the thing aren't all that remarkable, and seem to limit the car as a 400hp 'pleasure' cruiser for two.

http://www.usautoparts.net/bmw/pics/z8/9854_1024.jpg

In any event, a nice little roaster. I'm certain it could provide plenty of pleasure even for one - me.

 

The Alpina was a limited run(only 555 made) special edition Z8 which had 20'' bling wheels, automatic tranny and detuned(to 375hp) V8 engine for around $130,000. They are decent cars that are unique but as mentioned already they are no powerhouse or supercar. I used to work on them when I was with BMW of NA, only their 3 training centers in the USA are allowed to fix the Z8's when structurally damaged because it's an all aluminum car and a pain in the azz to repair. The coolest thing about the Alpinas to me is the back cover of the laser cut key is a metal plate with "Alpina" and the cars number "023/555) engraved on it.

 

Funny you mention the numbering thing. On a 3" round aluminum medallion, located on the rear bulkhead between the seats, is the same designation ... Alpina 023/555. I wondered what that was.

I also wonder what today's resale value is.