Alfa Romeo 147 (2001 - 2009) 1.9 JTDm Lusso 3d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Style, style style. More than any German 'marque' could ever aspire to!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They thought I was mad to buy it and that it would be unreliable and costly to run. They were wrong. Comments like "I love the styling, but not sure I'd ever risk buying one" . well I took the risk and been rewarded in spades!

Would you buy this car again and why?

I've owned a lot of cars over the years, Renaults, Peugeots, VW's Saabs , triumphs,rovers (lovely!) And fords (never again!) This has been the best car I've owned. Had it three and a half years and put 60000 miles on it - now showing 170000 on the clock and still purrs like a kitten, growls Luke a tiger and pulls like a train. Some of the trim is a bit rough and ready but at least it's not the horrible tacky acreage of how sounding plastic that you find on VW's and Beemers.

What are you likely to buy next?

Just bought a 159 2.4 on the strength of this to replace the family car (the 147 is mostly used as my daily work commuter). It's even more gorgeous and has HUUUGE torque, just hope it's as reliable.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,600

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Heart over head decision.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Definitely a drivers car. Suspension is quite hard so is a bit harsh on poor road surfaces. This might discomfort passengers but the driver just won't care as they'll be enjoying the drive so much. It is an acquired taste though, mainly as the car is quite lively and gives lots of driver feedback, so at first you don't feel that confident in its road holding but once you've proudly established your relationship with it you realise it holds the road like it's welded to it and corners like it's on rails -albeit with a bit of roll. Invest the time in getting to know it and it will reward you with massive grins on a daily basis.

What's it like to park?

It's a diesel so turning circle is not fantastic, but it's a small car and visibility is generally good so it's easy enough to park. Bonnet visibility is sortability good for its curviness.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing of note. Seriously ... Nothing in 60000 miles ... NOTHING! Front tyres need replacing about every 10000, rears so far done over 40000 and are half worn. You do need to replace drop links and suspension arms occasionally, but they're dirt cheap and not difficult to fit.

What's most practical about your car?

Fuel economy , fantastically cheap to run and maintain though a little heavy on front tyres. That's mainly because it encourages spirited driving, but as it sits on 16" wheels premium tyres can be got for around £60 each with a bit of shipping around. Overall fuel economy I'm getting is 53 mpg which is nothing short of stunning.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Cruise control is effective at getting good mpg.