4.8is Alpina

[jigaro]

I sold my 4.6is and have purchased 4.8is alpina edition from a dealer i know very well, have seen the car, and it seems to be very nice, its got alpina badges all over the place, steering wheel, tires and so on, it also has alpina trim on the outside, and running boards.
What do you guys think of ALPINA?
I know that dinnan and shnitzer are companies that modify bmw aftr they are already made in bmw factory but, i was tolled that alpina is its own factory which makes beemers with a close coaporation with BM Factory, can anyone explain to me better what alpina is all about and its a POSITIVE in general? my car is 05 edition