2006 Alpina Roadster S

Finished in Black Schwarz 2 and beleived to be 1 of only 15 RHD cars in this colour, with a Dream Red leather interior, ‘FJ06 JDU’ is #293 of the production run and one of just 167 right-hand drive cars built for the UK.

Still showing just 31,000 miles on the odometer and boasting an impressive service record, as a late UK-model car it also benefits from the following factory fitted LUX model extras: headlamp washers; PDC; an Alpina wind deflector; cruise control; and a multi-function steering wheel.

In need of nothing other than a tankful of fuel and a suitably interesting destination, this is probably the only sportscar you’ll ever need.

As we keep saying, black is a helluva colour to carry off on a classic, even one that’s as new as this one because it’ll shine a searchlight on any defects, no matter how minor.

And yet, when a car is in the condition this one is there are few better colours; subtle and yet dramatic, the combination of huge alloy wheels and an inconspicuous colour means only the cognoscenti will appreciate what’s just driven past them.

The paintwork itself is excellent. Smooth and glossy, there are no significant blemishes or damage, only a deep shine on what seems to be flawless panels, panels that are also immaculately aligned – but then that’s what you get when companies as revered as BMW and Alpina join forces.

Obviously, the quality of care a car receives subsequently is just as important, and on that score, we think the Roadster’s owners have done it proud as there are no dinks in the doors, or marks on the four corners due to careless parking. (The presence of PDC and a reversing camera helps with the latter, of course.)

And this isn’t restricted to just the coachwork: the 19-inch Alpina Dynamic alloy wheels are not only almost flawless; their open design also allows you to admire the red brake calipers that lie behind.

The seller tells us that the four matching Continental Sport Contact 7 tyres were fitted less than 1,000 miles ago, with the front tyres being fitted in October 2022, and the rears in July 2022. As you’d expect, they have plenty of tread left on them as a result.

We will never get tired of telling you that experience shows that matching high-quality tyres are an infallible sign of a caring and mechanically sympathetic owner who is prepared to spend the appropriate amount in maintaining their car properly.

Other Alpina flourishes like the deep chin spoiler, three-piece boot spoiler, and badges are all not only present and correct but in an excellent condition.

The folding black hood also does everything it should: it rises and falls at the touch of a button, seals tightly when it is up, and is free of rips, tears, and even loose stitches. There’s a proper glass rear window fitted too, which features a heating element; an Alpina, even a convertible one, demands few compromises of its driver, even in the foulest of weather.

All of which means there is nothing for the new owner to do.

The interior might still be Z4-minimal but the 2,000 modifications Alpina is rumoured to have made have livened it up nicely – and if red leather can ever be called subtle, we think the changes the tuning firm has wrought are just that.

The seats, which are figure-hugging and yet very comfortable, are in great shape with barely any discernible wear. They’re also heated, electrically adjustable, and feature the Alpina logo on their backrests.

The same colour hide has been used on the door cards, which are in an equally impressive condition. Black hide has been used on the dashboard and transmission tunnel, and this features bright red stitching.

The steering wheel is nicely adorned. Fat-rimmed, it’s as practical as it is good in the hand thanks to the presence of multi-function controls within a thumbs’ reach.

Other nice touches include a stubby gearlever that’s topped with an Alpina gear knob, blue-faced instruments, a wind deflector to keep your hair looking marvellous when the roof is down, and Alpina overmats that protect the very good carpets that lie underneath.

Plus, of course, the Alpina build plate above the rearview mirror that confirms this is #293 in the production run.

Further proof of careful curation comes in the form of a taut netting pocket in the passenger’s footwell, and Alpina Roadster S sill plates that are free of scratches and scuffs.

There’s also a surprising amount of storage for a two-seater convertible, and even the hard plastic that’s used for some of these is free of marks and nicks.

The BMW headunit has been removed and replaced by a Pioneer tablet-style affair. This is a neat and sensible upgrade that offers the occupants access to DAB radio, Bluetooth streaming, handsfree calling, a reversing camera, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

But should you prefer originality over functionality, you’ll be pleased to hear that the original BMW headunit has been retained. The CD-multichanger has also been disconnected but left in place, so reconnecting the two would be straightforward.

It’s got the usual 21st century essentials such as cupholders, air-conditioning, electric windows, central locking, and electric mirrors, and we are told that everything works as it should.

Which means that – again – there’s nothing for you to do other than enjoy it.

NB: A spare set of overmats and a spare wind deflector are included. The latter clips under the boot lid, which is a very neat way of storing the deflector when it isn’t needed.

The Alpina’s service history is impressive and reads as follows:

• 17/7/2006 – pre-delivery inspection by Sytner Nottingham
• 22/9/2006 – running in check by Sytner Nottingham at 1,093 miles
• 27/12/2007 – oil service by Sytner Nottingham at 5,439 miles
• 08/07/2009 – oil service and fresh brake fluid by Birds Garage at 10,250 miles
• 15/7/2010 – Inspection 1 by Birds Garage at 12,692 miles
• 07/07/2011 – Inspection 2 and fresh brake fluid by Birds Garage at 14,317 miles
• 27/09/2013 – oil service and fresh brake fluid by Sytner Nottingham at 20,910 miles
• 12/10/2015 – Inspection 1 by Stratstone Derby at 24,276 miles
• 14/03/2018 – oil service by Stourbridge Repair Centre at 26,586 miles
• 29/11/2018 – Inspection 2 and fresh brake fluid by Redish Automotive at 28,184 miles
• 30/06/2022 – oil service and fresh brake fluid by Redish Automotive at 30,120 miles
• 11/03/2024 – oil service and fresh brake fluid by Redish Automotive at 31,090 miles

The above is supported by the invoices in the history file.

As the video demonstrates, the Alpina starts very well, idles perfectly, and revs like a banshee when provoked, which is kinda the point, isn’t it?

But it does have a civilised side; the seller bought it in 2019 to use as a long-distance touring car and his tours of Scotland and Wales have left him impressed with the Alpina’s more supple ride, better steering, and longer legs compared to the standard BMW Z4.

As for the condition of the engine and underbonnet area, it is so good that if we were to tell you the photos were of a three-year-old car you’d probably believe us.

Plus, monochromatic and dramatic, only the red oil dipstick adds colour. #itsthelittlethings

The underside looks clean and strong. It also appears to be free of scuffs and scrapes, even to the Alpina front valance, which is quite a feat given how low the car is and how prevalent speed bumps are these days.

The vendor has also usefully added a space saver and tools, for peace of mind whilst touring off the beaten track.

The Alpina’s MoT certificate is valid until October 2025, the recent Vehicle History Check is clear, and the car comes with two keys.

It also has the full Alpina documentation and leather wallet plus the Alpina first aid kit, warning triangle, and tools.

NB: The online MoT history shows the Alpina’s first test was in 2017. This is incorrect as there are paper copies of MoTs from before this time.

The standard BMW Z4 is so competent and satisfying to drive it is all the sportscar most drivers will ever need.

And yet, if you want to turn the wick up a little and really test your mettle then the Alpina Roadster S is a fine way to do it. Combining all the practicality and engineering excellence of the car it is based on, Alpina’s modifications mean you are almost certainly going to be the weakest link in this chain.

But this only holds true though if you buy the right car, which ideally means a good service history and low mileage – plus plenty of evidence that money hasn’t been skimped along the way.

All of which applies to this example.

It’s also got a great colour scheme, and its condition means you’re going to be able to jump in and enjoy it straightaway instead of having to splash out even more money to get it put right.

Which brings us to the matter of how much it’s likely to sell for.

We think the winning bidder will have to stump up somewhere between £25,000 and £35,000, which isn’t a lot considering you’ll be buying what might just be the most exquisitely engineered convertible sportscar mere mortals can afford.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.