Alfa Romeo 147 (2001 - 2009) 1.9 JTDm 16V Ducati Corse Q2 3d (2008/58) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

You're not a true petrolhead unless you've had an Alfa.

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

Most of them like it. Some have a bit of a problem with it being a diesel.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Don't need to buy one again, I'm not planning on selling the one I have...

What are you likely to buy next?

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£17,500

When did you buy the car?

December 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

I was given free tax with the car and full tank of fuel but that was it.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Something different.

What was the dealer like?

The dealership, in particular the salesman I was in correspondence with was, was very friendly. He wasn't at all pressurising or attempted to force a sale; in fact he actually told me to go away and think about it.

What's it like to drive?

Great fun. The torque is brilliant and will give most cars that are higher in value and/or performance (on paper) a fright. It's well balanced, only understeering if you drive like a plank. If you drive it well, you can get let off oversteer that is very easy to control.

What's it like to park?

Once you're used to the turning circle, it's pretty easy to park.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The only problem I've had with the car is my turbo's bearing. After only 27k, the bearing is on it's way out causing the turbo to constantly whine. The was one occasion where I had the car under load for a prolonged period of time and the turbo over boosted causing the engine management light to come on and limp mode to kick in momentarily. A new turbo is likely to cost around £700 but as there isn't any drop in performance, this isn't a priority.

What's most practical about your car?

The boot space is very good for the size of the car. I'm a drummer and, with the rear seats down, there is plenty of room to get all my gear in.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Cruise control.