Alfa Romeo 2003 Spider

Want to know everything there is to know about this car?

  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    2nd hand you get a lot of car for your money. 226 BHP, 0-60 mph in 6ish seconds, air con, leather, alarm, 16" alloys... it is a baby Ferrari!

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not too bad on petrol, but if you thrash it your purse will pay for it! Full tank is around £50 giving 260 miles urban, 300+ on motorway! Maintenance costs can sting... especially if it's something major!

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Fun & rewarding to drive once you're on the go! Large turning circle which can be a pain when parking though, rear visibility isn't the best. Low ground clearance might make you shriek over SOME speed bumps too!

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fantastic! The 3.0 V6 24-Valve 6-speed engine is bursting at the seams with power, vrooooom and roar! Doesn't snarl, grunt and spit like a boxster... VERY refined or "operatic".

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    I've had mine for 5 months and I've found the car to be mechanically reliable. Check the seals against the windows/door and against the roof. Under very heavy rain mine does leak a drop or two but nothing major. Check roof pins/latches!

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fantastic! Everybody admires, especially since it's 3.0 and an Alpha! Will definitely be a classic for distinctive looks. Is not just another Porche Boxster, Z4, S2000 or Audi TT.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Leather interior with embossed Alfa Romeo logo on the seats looks plush and comfy. Bucket seats are supportive for long cruises. Being 6'1" can't really decline the seat too much though.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Comes with fitted alarm and immobiliser, which I believe is Thatcham approved!

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Bought the car 2nd hand for a car supermarket and always taken it to a specialist in North London who are amazing. Can diagnose a fault/squeak over the phone...! I've never been to a dealers.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Timing belt - if it goes it might mean a new engine. Some say change at 40K others at 60K. Either way, make sure you get a warranty just in case!

    Other

    I've heard that at over 60K, the rear suspension can require some work. Get one with all the stamps!

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes