Alfa Romeo 2003 156 Saloon

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  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    If it was better built, it would be unbeatable.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    72,000 mileage service at main dealer is crippling. Otherwise, costs not bad for type of car, unless you are unlucky to be plagued with one of those faults that can't be repaired.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Wonderfully responsive steering. Great fun.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Not the quickest on acceleration, but great engine.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Not great, which was a surprise having owned 2 155's and a 33 which were reasonably good.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Still one of the best looking saloons on the road. A classic.

    Comfort

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Good driving position, controls and dials all sensibly laid out. Quite a lot of wind noise and rattles develop with age.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Seems OK.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Inability to resolve niggling faults.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Timing belt tensioners went at 40k, otherwise sound.

    Other

    Rear electric windows regularly stop working, airbag warning light always on constantly (never resolved), Vellore cloth upholstery snags, recaro front seat squab internal stiffeners sticking out of seat, engine bottom cover screws don't tighten.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes