1996 Alfa Romeo 146 I.E Boxer review from UK and Ireland
"Great sounding practical pretty car, but not a cheap to keep car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Gearbox diff link snapped at 80,000
exhaust
lambda probe
front hoses
wishbones + drop links
rusty radiator
master cylinder
crank angel sensor
broken teeth from flywheel
clutch + cover + bearing
celling wearing / cloth peeing away.
General comments?
Boxer Noise sounds great.
Boxer engine is good, but gearbox ancient design (from Alfa 33) and is frail.
It gets better looking every time you look at the car.
No big rusting problems. (33 was bad)
It loves 97Ron (super) petrol.
Alfa Dealers are a waste of time and patience.
Use a non-dealer specialist you can trust.
Driving experience makes you feel car is one step away from a Ferrari.
I have spent about £5,500 since new keeping it on the road, but worth it.
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  | A reliable, well-designed, performance saloon |
| Fun and stylish but hard work |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.7 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 56000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 89000 miles |
| Previous car | Alfa Romeo 33 |
| Date of Entry | 23rd August, 2005 |