2001 Alfa Romeo 147 Distinctive review from Belgium

After a few months, the immobiliser system between the keys and the car was very tempremental and had to be replaced (under guarantee).

After the first 20,000Km service one of the belts under the bonnet was slipping and squealing (fixed after I took the car back to the garage at no extra cost).

The car developed a passenger's side door rattle. This seems to be a common problem with nearly all 147s around the world, and the garage can't seem to find the problem.

The main attribute that attracted me almost immediately to the 147 was the design and the small details both externally and internally.

The dash is lovely and clear, plus the red illuminations remind me of the high performance sports cars like the Ferrari 355.

The seating (which is fully adjustable) is very competent and comfortable. The space and in particular the leg room provided both for the front and rear passengers is great for the overall size of the car.

Externally, those 156 metal door handles are very nicely replicated and suite the lines and style of the car's exterior design.

The rear bumper is a bit "big" and bold, whereas the front bumper combines a sporty look with a subtle elegance. - A shame that the indicator lights are low down on the bumper instead of the fog lights.