http://www.caranddriver.com/article....ticle_id=10704
The Alpina B7 is a 7-series sedan with a 500-hp supercharged 4.4-liter V8, tweaked suspension, 21-inch wheels, and cosmetic changes inside and out. BMW's six-speed automatic transmission remains. Alpina is a highly respected tuner which makes complete models based on BMWs. Slightly less severe and more luxurious than BMW's own M models, Alpinas appeal to those who want speed without harshness. The first Alpina model in the U.S. was the 2003 Z8 Roadster V8 which was basically a dressed up Z8 with an automatic transmission.
The B7 will be joined by an Alpina version of the upcoming X5 replacement, although there's no word on U.S. plans for that vehicle. In Europe, the most popular Alpina model is the B5, which has the same engine as the B7 crammed into a 5-series body. Entering America with BMW's support will push Alpina's annual production from 500 to 2000 cars.