• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It says that I am not interested in making a flashy impression, but I have found a quality older car that is nice to drive.

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

    Most friends are rather impressed with the car. They find it stylish and surprisingly comfortable. They all still joke about Alfa reliability reputation.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. It is highly practical to live with if you don't need rear doors. I would update to a 2010 model if I find a good one.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I might upgrade to a 2010 model GT.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £5,000

    When did you buy the car?

    November 2012

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I did have to pay the a healthy price for the car, but they did repair some problems that appeared after the sale.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    I needed a good looking, comfortable hatchback with reasonable fuel economy.

    What was the dealer like?

    The salesman was a bit pushy and spivvy. I had to deal with the principle to get problems resolved.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It needs plenty of revs to gain smooth gear changes, but it handles really well. Acceleration is best between 50-70mph, but it is no slouch from a start. There is a little wind noise at 70mph+.

    What's it like to park?

    Not bad, rear visibility is ok for a coupe and the parking sensors help. It is however a little wider than it seems on the inside,.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes. a speed sensor made it run horribly, leaking pipework in the oil circulation and required replacement glow plugs.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Seats are incredibly comfortable. It is a hatchback not just a coupe, hence a good load lugger. On a run it does 45mpg.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The leather sports seats.