Alpina
B6
BMW
M5
Alpina B6 vs BMW M5: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the BMW M5 comes out ahead of the Alpina B6 on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
B6
Overall
Sentiment is highly positive among owners, characterized by deep appreciation for the brand's unique philosophy of blending high performance with exceptional ride comfort and distinctive, understated luxury. The B6 is consistently described as a "fast cruiser" or "highway missile," prized for its immense torque at low RPMs, sublime comfort over long distances, and subtle, classy aesthetics compared to more overtly sporty M models. A strong consensus exists that these vehicles offer a special, more refined driving experience than their BMW M counterparts, focusing on effortless high-speed travel rather than track-focused sharpness.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a single "best" version. Discussions reference different generations (E30, F06) with different appeals.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophically expensive repair potential: Very frequent concern regarding the cost of parts and labor, especially for Alpina-specific components like bespoke turbos and bodywork.
M5
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily influenced by ownership costs. The E60 generation (V10 S85 engine) is universally described as an unreliable "money pit" and "heap of junk" with catastrophic engine failure risks, particularly concerning rod bearings, leading to extremely high maintenance costs. The F90 generation (V8 S63 engine) receives a more positive reception for its brutal performance, all-wheel drive capability, and modern luxury, but is still acknowledged as a very expensive vehicle to maintain properly.
Best version to buy
F90 Competition (pre-hybrid V8): This generation is frequently cited as the "last good M5," praised for its reliability relative to the V10, monstrous performance from its twin-turbo V8, and attractive design. It is seen as a peak of the traditional M5 formula before the added weight and complexity of the hybrid G90.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic engine failure (E60 V10 S85): Rod bearing failures leading to seized engines; described as one of the least reliable BMW engines ever made. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Extremely high maintenance/repair costs: Described as an "absolute fortune" to maintain, with reports of $20,000+ spent over 10 years for low-mileage cars; major service bills anticipated as mileage approaches 100,000 km.
- ⚠Hybrid system and weight drawbacks (G90): Numb brake feel due to regen, excessive mass, and electromechanical systems that detract from driver engagement; noted quality control issues like missing door assemblies and non-functional heaters…
The verdict
The BMW M5 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Alpina B6, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Alpina B6 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Alpina B6 or the BMW M5?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Alpina B6 and the BMW M5. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Alpina B6 or the BMW M5?
The BMW M5 seats more passengers than the Alpina B6 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Alpina B6 is classed as a Coupe, the BMW M5 as a Station wagon.
Which has better fuel economy, the Alpina B6 or the BMW M5?
The BMW M5 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 2.0 L/100km combined versus 10.4 L/100km for the Alpina B6, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Alpina B6 or the BMW M5?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.