Description
Alpina C1 2.3 | 1980
Highlights:
- Professionally restored in Italy between 2017–2019
- Rare Alpina conversion based on BMW E21 323i
- Original 5-speed manual and 2.3L inline-6 engine with ~172 hp
- Fitted with authentic Alpina upgrades including Bilstein suspension and 15” alloys
The seller offers for sale this 1980 Alpina C1 2.3, based on the BMW E21 323i platform and transformed into a high-performance variant by Alpina. Under the hood lies a naturally aspirated 2.3-litre inline-six cylinder engine, enhanced by Alpina with revised combustion chambers, a reprofiled camshaft, and higher compression. This unit delivers approximately 172 hp to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. The car features a sportier suspension setup with Bilstein dampers, upgraded front disc brakes with internal ventilation, and an Alpina-specific limited-slip differential.
The exterior is finished in Henna Red with contrasting silver Alpina striping and a factory-style rear spoiler. It sits on correct 15-inch multi-spoke Alpina alloy wheels with black centre caps, wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza Adrenalin RE002 tyres. Inside, the car is trimmed in black leather with Recaro front seats, an Alpina-branded three-spoke steering wheel, a wooden gear knob, and custom Alpina instrumentation. Additional items include Italian registration documents and service records from after the restoration.
The exterior, according to the seller, required no further touch-ups post-restoration and presents in complete, refurbished condition.The interior also reflects the car’s revitalised status: black leather seats, dash, and trim in beautiful condition. Mechanically, the car is stated to be operational without issues. The car currently does not have a valid roadworthiness certificate (TÜV), as it is deregistered, but the seller claims this is easily obtainable.
Originating from Italy, this C1 2.3 is one of the earliest Alpina efforts to fill the performance gap between BMW’s standard models and Alpina’s own higher-powered creations. The C1 2.3 was positioned above the BMW 323i and below Alpina’s later B6 2.8, offering an accessible yet distinctive upgrade. The key to its performance lies in its revised cylinder head, sportier camshaft, and high-compression pistons, which allowed it to achieve 0–100 km/h in around 7.8 seconds—a strong figure at the time.
Aside from power enhancements, the C1 received signature Alpina styling additions, aerodynamic body kits, and interior refinements that set it apart from standard BMWs. Its development also helped Alpina cement its status as a respected independent manufacturer, eventually recognised by the German government. The E21-based C1 2.3 is a rarity today, given its low production numbers and the fact that many were later converted or lost to time.
This particular example—with its classic colour scheme, correct wheels, and preserved Italian documentation—offers a glimpse into Alpina’s formative tuning philosophy and is well suited for a collector or enthusiast looking for a distinctive 1980s European coupe.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Lubusz province, Poland.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has an Italian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
