Alpina unveiled their first 5 Series based model, the B7 Turbo, beginning with the E12 BMW 5 Series. Introduced in 1978 the first generation of Alpina 5 Series was available in two variants: the B7 Turbo, and the B7 S Turbo. Both variants were fitted with a turbocharged 3.0L straight six engine, although the B7 S produced 326hp as opposed to the B7's 296hp. The Alpina E12 generation of 5 Series cars was built until 1982 and was replaced by the Alpina E28 generation.