Alfa Romeo 164 2.0i Lusso Cat 4d (1993/K) Owner Review

Used it for 800 miles per week commuting, smiled everytime I drove it. Handled superbly with decent tyres, heard they take 4th at 90 without complaint.

Returned 30+ mpg at very good cruising speeds. 140+ bhp 2 litre. Lots of torque for town, enough power for other areas - no complaints on either front. Compared to our 520i 12v hack its different class in all departments.

Broke once, but that was my fault. Otherwise a very reliable motorway commuter. And I drove it in the Italian spirit. Alfas loved by owners who like to drive and admired by drivers to frightened to buy one. These cars have soul to spare.

People gave way because it's a driver's marque, without image problems of some cars. No problems clearing traffic on motorway either; people just see that front view coming and get out the way. I loved the lines from launch 'til launch of 166.

Great seating, all toys. Used to travel from Dover to Birm regularly and ready for work everytime. Sometimes 4 up, but I am long bodied, 6' 2", with long arms and short legs. Normal people may find seating odd.

Okay, but little this age is good. Most have got Thatcham 2 at least installed.

Alfa dealerships helpful with older models, especially since they know you aren't going to buy from them. Find someone who imports the parts from Italy for a great deal on spares.

Engine

Loves to rev. Mine wasn't 1962cc engine, but was with Cat. If the larger sounds tappety it's actually the front camshaft. I was tight and hung on to book my in for replacement and it popped a valve. Spend the 100 quid earlier and these are not a problem.

Other

I have met owners who have put 250k miles on the 2-litre engine, but you have to budget to have the front (exhaust) camshaft done about every 80k miles. It's not that expensive via independents.

Did you buy the car new?

Used

Would you buy the same model again?

Yes

Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

Yes