Match the car to its documents
Save the listing and confirm that the VIN on the car matches the registration document. Write down the model, body style, engine and first registration date. Alpina models share their basic structure with a BMW, so a similar BMW can look almost identical in photographs. Note every detail that the seller presents as Alpina-specific and ask which document records it.
Check wheels, seats and trim
Ask for clear photographs of the wheels, seats, steering wheel and interior trim. Note whether the wheels are the original design and size, and whether the seats and trim match the version described in the advert. Replacement parts from a BMW or another supplier can be fitted later, so a matching appearance is not enough to show that an item belongs to the original specification.
Record changes and service work
List any changes to the suspension, brakes, exhaust and software separately, together with the invoices for the work. Ask whether removed original parts come with the car. Leave a claim open until a document supports it. The equipment list helps you organise the original configuration; an inspection by a qualified workshop is still needed to judge the condition of the car.