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I have found, what I believe, is going to be my first BMW but I have a few questions and thought I'd post them here for the experts to weigh in. I have an opportunity to purchase a 1979 323i Alpina that was brought over from Italy by someone who was in the military service back in the day. I have seen the car once and I knew very little about that model at the time but I have since been doing research on that model on this and some other sites. It would seem that the Alpina cars are certainly desirable cars to own. I have seen information on some of the tell-tale modifications/markings including the dash decal that clearly states "Alpina" and also have seen that there is a special VIN # under the hood in the engine compartment. Aside from that, my knowledge of what to look for to verify authenticity is limited. I expect to go to look over the car again in the coming few days and I need some pointers on not only how to better identify the Alpina features, but also what to look for as to the overall condition and value of the vehicle. Of course, the basics I can handle, such as body condition and engine running condition. But, were there any major problems or inherent issues with that model that i should be aware of before making any purchase decisions? For example, Is the fuel injection system solid on these models? Etc, Etc..

I only know a little history on the car at this point and that is what the owner has told me first hand. I have gone on sights like NADA and Kelly Blue Book but they only list values for US model cars. Since this car was brought over from Europe, I can't seem to find any book value guides for this car. Can anyone lend some expertise in this area? Also, should I be concerned about anything regarding it being a Euro car now in the USA? I know that this car has been sitting in the owner's garage since approx 1981 and hasn't been run since then. He has told me that he had some type of performance head installed when he was over in Italy and that he thought the car was making an odd noise after he had brought the car stateside so he parked it and, amazingly, never drove it again. I certainly intend on having a look into that issue before making any purchase decisions but If the car is a legit Alpina and can be purchased reasonably, should I be overly concerned about the engine or head needing possible reworking? I guess part availability is my main concern here...??

Ok, well thanks, in advance, for anyone who can help me out with any insight or input on this model.

Welcome here!

The common E21 issues are pretty much the same for Alpina models so the general Buyers Guide & FAQ section might give you a good basis.

I don't think there are many availability issues with Euro spec parts in the US, or parts availability in general. BMW takes quite good care of their heritage, especially mechanically, upholstery stuff for example may be a different issue, most of it is NLA. As far as Alpina used different parts most of it can be obtained, and on all BMW parts there's a lively trade in used parts as well.

But, part of the lively trade is the trade in Alpina parts including the dash plaque, and Alpina did not issue their own VIN Nos back in the days of the E21. Therefore, be aware of the fact that at least 75% of the cars that are offered as being Alpina, are not original Alpina at all. Alpina kept records of the B6 2.8 conversions they did themselves, but back then their dealerships also did a large part of the conversions and there are hardly any records of what they did.

With some more details on the car and preferably some decent photos the Alpina specialists may be able to tell you if it is likely that the car is a genuine Alpina. If its a 2.3 litre straight six it could be a rare Alpina C1, but it is more likely to be a 323i with some Alpina ornaments.

Edit: added new article on this subject to the FAQ section: Alpina or not?

Hi and welcome
Caveat Emptor!
Alpinas may not be as they appear- as Jeroen has said

That being said do have a look for this car on the Alpina Register at:
http://www.alpina-archive.com/?cat=72

And if the car appears as the correct number and it is where you would expect- ie moved from Italy to USA then you may find you have a real one. Is it 2038 for eg and are you in MA?
Otherwise you can contact Buchloe Alpina HQ - who are very helpful - vital to establish provenance for future value IMO
good luck