2002 Alfa Romeo GTV 2.0 TS Lusso 2.0 Twin spark

Summary:

Stunning looks and killer performance

Faults:

Poor wipers.

Rusty exhaust.

General Comments:

A great car to own and drive a true sports coup. The first thing you will notice is that it is a little heavy. Fast starts are made difficult due to the cars weight. Once moving the engine responds well with a good amount of punch above 3200 revs. Overtaking is easy and a blip on the throttle is enough to get things moving. The suspension settings are tight so you can expect a ride that is stiff, but not to the point that it will get on your nerves. The brakes whilst a little spongy will stop the car quite quickly with the help of anti lock brakes. The 17' wheels make a huge difference in the cornering ability of the car. They are a good option to fit. Although the car is heavy there are no surprises in the way it corners. When pushed hard you will find a tendency for four-wheel drift that will become under steer and is easily controllable by letting go of the gas. A real pleasure to drive even for the inexperienced driver.

One thing that seemed odd is the long throw gearshift. To compensate there is a long travel clutch that allows you to slip for relatively brisk starts. The interior is great with a real Italian sports car feel about it. The central dials are obscured from the passengers' view that might get a little annoying to some people.

Overall a great car to own... A head turner...

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th April, 2002

20th Aug 2006, 09:35

Hi glad to read these comments, I must admit that I do agree with many of the comments in the article even though owning my gtv was not always a pleasant experience, I mean I barely use mine and I had a few problems along the years. In my modest opinion I think the car looks good and its built well. I have one big question to ask, I own a '99 one and I'm not sure whether I should replace my wheels with 17inch and lower it. I want it to look more aggressive! Can anyone help?

1997 Alfa Romeo GTV Lusso 2.0 16v Twinspark

Summary:

Sexy toy

Faults:

Passenger window squeaks when closing.

Radio antenna stuck due to a long time not being used.

General Comments:

It's the closest you can get to a Ferrari.

Very sporty sound when you go over 3500 revs, and keeps pushing until the rev limiter.

There's no need to modify anything, this car comes out from the factory with a racing engine and an awesome design by Pininfarina.

Other cars with same engine capacity are slower, even with a turbo.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th August, 2001