BMW ALPINA (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 163 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
86%
Total Tests (2024)
163
Avg Mileage
74,830 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2004 BMW ALPINA reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 20 years old, 86% of BMW ALPINAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 163 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 74,830 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW ALPINA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW ALPINA has 74,830 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a BMW ALPINA?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 1998 model has the lowest at 75%. The 2004 sits between the two at 86%.
How much does a 2004 BMW ALPINA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW ALPINA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 91% | 186 | 26,604 mi |
| 2020 | 97% | 112 | 32,032 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 170 | 37,777 mi |
| 2018 | 98% | 127 | 43,619 mi |
| 2017 | 90% | 87 | 53,539 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 130 | 53,465 mi |
| 2015 | 90% | 181 | 65,952 mi |
| 2014 | 93% | 120 | 93,182 mi |
| 2013 | 94% | 64 | 98,526 mi |
| 2012 | 95% | 102 | 98,683 mi |
| 2011 | 86% | 176 | 94,377 mi |
| 2010 | 90% | 188 | 109,791 mi |
| 2009 | 82% | 223 | 114,033 mi |
| 2008 | 90% | 217 | 102,557 mi |
| 2007 | 87% | 313 | 140,615 mi |
| 2006 | 95% | 151 | 148,080 mi |
| 2005 | 92% | 90 | 87,087 mi |
| 2004 | 86% | 163 | 74,830 mi |
| 2003 | 91% | 85 | 97,621 mi |
| 2002 | 86% | 120 | 104,917 mi |
| 2001 | 81% | 80 | 110,085 mi |
| 2000 | 88% | 108 | 112,393 mi |
| 1999 | 86% | 79 | 110,744 mi |
| 1998 | 75% | 79 | 132,265 mi |
| 1997 | 96% | 47 | 131,015 mi |
Checking a specific BMW ALPINA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW ALPINA
The 2004 BMW ALPINA is a premium performance with a 3400cc petrol engine. 163 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 14% of all 2004 cars for reliability.
With an average of 74,830 miles at 20 years old, BMW ALPINA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 BMW ALPINA Fuel Costs
The 3400cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2004 BMW ALPINA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 86% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW ALPINA Reliability Trend
Newer BMW ALPINAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW ALPINA
At 20 years old, the BMW ALPINA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 98%.
Alternatives to the 2004 BMW ALPINA
The BMW ALPINA is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2006) 70% pass rate (-16%) from 12,591 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-8%) from 8,333 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2005) 86% pass rate (same) from 6,992 tests
- BMW X3 (2006) 78% pass rate (-8%) from 6,611 tests