1999 Alfa Romeo 156 TS 16v Sportivo review from UK and Ireland
"Italian's design the best looking cars"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Fan speed switch for heater developed fault. Replaced the whole unit myself with a part from UK Alfa Specialist for €60 inc. delivery.
General comments?
I have truly fallen in love with this car. Alfa is the worlds longest established sporting marque - but nothing prepared me for THAT engine sound on its way to 6500 rpm! I no longer use the radio - that's how good is it.
The model I have is the Sportive, pack 2. This sees the car lowered with sport suspension, 16" Alfa telephone dial alloys and a discreet rear spoiler. I have never turned so many heads before in a car. From every angle this car is gorgeous.
The cabin is concerned only with the driver, the necessary dials are turned to face you and light up in a sexy red hue. The seats are tough wearing and very comfortable. Having owned two Audi's I can vouch that the Alfa is at least as well put together. The cockpit is definitely more inviting than the A3 at any rate.
On the road the Alfa is quick, precise to turn in and very well behaved. 144bhp under the front wheels is not huge by todays standards - but boy does it feel fast with the shoe down!
In a world overpopulated with bmw's and other dull drives, the Italian flair of the Alfa makes a refreshing change. Please don't be put off by scaremongering from certain quarters - these cars are tough, just be sensible and check that the cam belt and tensioner have been changed and bear in mind that on TS (Twin Spark) models you will need 8 spark plugs at every 60k mile change - at €25 each! Full service history is a must on these cars. I'm sticking with Alfa!
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| Powerful and enjoyable to drive, a lovely car |
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 76000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 80000 miles |
| Previous car | Audi A3 |
| Date of Entry | 29th January, 2006 |