Alfa Romeo 156 Saloon (1997 - 2005) 2.0 TS Veloce 4d (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It says I have taste and style and I know a thing or two about cars. It also says I'm a bit of a petrol head.

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

The wife loves driving it, and everyone comments on how stunning it looks and how amzing the interior is. Some people comment on why I bought an Alfa because of all of the reliability issues envolved, but unless you've owned one you will never know.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes I would but I may go for a diesel as the 2.0ts engine can be very thirsty especially when pushed. Or if I could afford to I would go for the GTA version

What are you likely to buy next?

Maybe a 156 1.9jtd, 159, GT or a Brera

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,500

When did you buy the car?

May 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got a fairly good deal, it had 52k miles on the clock with excellent full service history and all bills. It did have a few parking scuffs on the rear passenger door which the dealer repaired.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I have wanted one since they came out in 1998 simply because of the looks and the heritage behind Alfa Romeo

What was the dealer like?

I think they were a fairly small dealer, but overall i had a good experience, I also received a 3 month warranty with the price.

What's it like to drive?

Like I'd always dreamed about. The engine note is intoxicating and begs for more, easily revs up to 7k rpm. It has lack of torque low down but above 3.5k rpm it all kicks in and brings a smile. Handling is superb in veloce trim with stiffened suspension. It can be a bit figity on bumpy surfaces though, but the superb Momo leather seats make up for it. There is no traction control on mine but because of lack of torque it isn't too bad. There is however plenty of torque at 70-80mph. Very quitet and smooth on the motorway, better than my old mk4 Golf. The steering is very precise and aparently the rear wheels have a small passive steering ability because of the suspension set up. The driving position is near on perfect and you really feel in control.

What's it like to park?

You can't see the boot whilst reversing so can be a bit nervy in tight spaces, plus the turning circle is awefull so 3 point turns can end up taking slightly longer.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing so far appart from a side light bulb, it certainly puts aside any of the doubts i had about owning an Alfa Romeo. As long as they are looked after they won't let you down. I've had her for 8 months now without a peep.

What's most practical about your car?

The boot size and the rear door access. I have a baby with all of the stuff which comes with her and it all fits in no problem. I wouldn't have minded isofix for extra security. Only annoying thing is thet rear seats don't split/fold but there is a ski hatch access.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Climate control, it is superb. It warms up very quickly in the winter with the quick clear funtctionality. It maintains the temperature rather than constantly blasting out hot air. Air con is excellent also. The Momo leather seats are superb, very comfy and supportive.