1994 Alfa Romeo 164 Super 24v review from UK and Ireland

I bought the car realising that the clutch was weak. (stiff action) I changed that.

The cambelt history wasn't there, although the rest was, so I didn't take any chances.

Front tyre burst. Replaced along with dodgy spare. Alignment done for good measure.

I expect the car to run well for a number of years. I spent over a grand on the cambelt and clutch change, plus tyres etc.

The previous owner gave me bills for £2,700 in 14 months so he bore the brunt of the major mid-life crisis overhaul that any car needs at this age.

It's my ninth Alfa Romeo. I'm 34 years old and there is something very 30 something about the car. It's very complete in its abilities, and for this reason, it is my favourite Alfa of them all.

Despite being a rwd junkie, I commend the Group 4 concept and the big Alfa's surefootedness. I don't think the chassis could cope with any more than the 211bhp on offer easily. It's about right.

Cabin trim and space are all impressive. Equipment level superb. This was a £25k car in 94.

Driving position improved and helped by fully electric seats.

Gearchange excellent. Much improved on the rear-mounted alfetta set-up.

Engine needs no drumroll. Simply worth the asking price alone. Pulls cleanly and impressively at almost any speed.

V6 sounds seductive too, with just the right balance between aural enjoyment and the need for relaxed motorway cruising.

I particulalrly like having a 7k redline manual box on a large car, it's quite rare. It means 148mph and 0-60 in 7.4, which is very brisk for a 1,500kg car.