Alfa Romeo 147 (2001 - 2009) 1.6 TS Lusso 5d (01) (2001/51) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like Alfa Romeos?

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Most concur the Alfas are beautiful, certainly compared to their respective alternatives.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, but now superceeded........

What are you likely to buy next?

I was going for a GT or the gorgeous Brera, but opted for a Smart Coupe.... (To find out why, see the Coupe review page!)

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£7,995

When did you buy the car?

January 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

They have always looked after me well, hence I have now bought 5 cars from them & had them serviced by the same dealers, Barrett- lee of Sudbury, Suffolk

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Am keen on Alfas, & this was to be my third although at the time was not considering this model or engine size. I have done high mileages in Alfas, & this would be no different

What was the dealer like?

They have been excellent, see above.

What's it like to drive?

Aaaah, Bisto. This is what Alfas are all about........ joyous engine! Torque steer (front wheel drive) if heavy footed coming out of junctions. Main clocks invoke the style of Alfas of the 60s. Mine is the 120 bhp version, & that provides in the Alfa tradition, sprightly performance, but in a rewarding manner when inclined. Despite all of which the car is surprisingly economical, averaging over 35 mpg over the years, & on a long run, if you fancy monitoring things with the onboard computer, over 40mpg is easily obtainable.

What's it like to park?

No problems

Have you had any problems with the car?

It now has nearly 90000 miles & has proved reliable. The cam belt did go at around 80000 miles despite regular changing. Would reccommend halving the given interval to 30000 miles. have lately had some ECU problems & changed the unit

What's most practical about your car?

A far more versatile load carrier than at first it seems. Most think it is the best looking of the hatchbacks........certainly in Rosso! (deep metalflake)

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The incomprehensible temperature controls!!