Based on the BMW 3 Series (E90), the B3 and D3 were available in coupé, saloon, convertible (not available for the D3) and station wagon body styles.

Both of these speculations were nullified when the car was introduced in 2007 as it utilised a modified version of the BMW N54 inline-6 engine used in the 335i.

The cars equipped with the all-wheel-drive (BMW xDrive) system were called Allrad.

The engine was modified by the addition of an Alpina specific ECU, oil cooler and lighter and stronger MAHLE pistons.

The engine was mated to a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission paired with a control system called Switch Tronic.

The exterior changes included optional Alpina pinstripes, a front spoiler with Alpina lettering, a rear lip spoiler and a light weight Akrapovic stainless steel exhaust system with quad exhaust tips.

The reason to use this engine was to have high performance while maintaining a good fuel economy.

The modifications allow the engine to generate 214 PS (157 kW; 211 hp) and 450 N⋅m (332 lb⋅ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm.

It also allows the car to have better handling than its counterparts also made possible due to non-run flat tyres.

Introduced at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the B3 S had a redesigned front spoiler, 19-inch wheels from the B7 and a new rear diffuser.

The GT3 is fitted with 19-inch black forged multi-spoke alloy wheels finished in Himalaya Grey weighing less than 10 kg (22 lb).

The brakes have rotors measuring 380 mm (15 in) front and aft with six-piston callipers.