GaryJ

With all the talk about this car from the Euro Car rags, I had to take a look. Some of the mechanicals sound very interesting, however, the styling didn't appeal to me, and I don't think it would grow on me either.<p>GaryJ

RB

Alfa's are nice, sexy cars. But compared to an A4 I can only say. Alfalfa. nt.

igor

every car enthusiast should own one Italian car in their lifetime. It is a truly unique love-hate relationship that develops, and as long as you don't plan on staying with it forever it is entertaining. I had a Fiat 124 Spyder during college and it helped me build a lot of character. Of course, Alfa and Fiat wisely withdrew from the US when everyone else on the globe (Brits excepted) figured out how to make reliable cars that were fun to drive. But if there was a way for them to make a small-scale reentry via Ferrari dealerships, I would love to test drive a 156 and a Spyder and perhaps lease one of them for 2 years (no more).

Tom

Alfa 156 is a very sexy car. It have Ferrari-like engine sound, rev-happy twin spark motors, sharp Italian handling and a distinctive personality. Tough to understand why you dislike it!!!

GaryJ

Basically it's styling. I love the 105 and 116, but this car and the integra-look-alike (current) GTV have gone in the wrong direction IMHO.

mkc

Alfa styling is usually different and very good. Unfortunately, reliabilty sucks.

GusS

the rear door handles positioned behind the rear windows to give the 4 door sedan a faux coupe look. Now, if you want to see what an ugly Alfa looks like, check out the new 166. The front end is a complete disaster.

GusS

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Enzo

Don't get me wrong, my wife and I love our A4, but as an Alfa owner there are certain qualities that make an Alfa endearing, and which the A4 lacks.<p>The A4 is a very capable vehicle and one can explore those capabilities without raising an eyebrow. It's that fact that bother's me about the A4. All of the capability is within the car itself and requires little from the driver. <p>I prefer to be rewarded for my participation in getting the most out of the vehicle. An Alfa makes the driver an intrigal part of driving the car. The car has capability built into it, but the Alfa requires more out of the driver to fully explore those capabilities. To me, this makes the Alfa a more enjoyable car to drive that the A4.<p>When going from point A to point B, quickly, quietly, and effeciently I choose the A4. For white knuckle, forearm twisting, engine howling DRIVING. I take my Alfa. I believe the 156 would offer the best of both worlds.<p>As far as reliability, among knowledgable Alfa owners there is a consensus that many of these wonderful cars have been tarnished by DPO's (Dreaded Previous Owners) who have given less that adaquate attention to their cars. The Alfa is a particular car that often uses unorthodox, but very effective systems (SPICA fuel injection, transverse pushrods on top of the head to operate the exhaust valves on the V6, traingulated locating link for live axle cars, DeDion suspension, ect.ect.ect.) which are reliable, but require a knowlegable person to work on them. You do NOT give your Alfa to some Ford/Chevy hack, or attack your car with a handfull of wrenches and no understanding of these systems. Granted, some parts were underengineered from the factory, but careful, preventative maintenance will usually circumvent any catastrophic, and expensive problems. So far, the only problems I've encounted with my 84 GTV-6 have been related to the fact that the PO didn't drive it enough. It only had 59,000 mi. at purchase and had very little use over the last 3,000 mi. Seals dry up and hoses crack. Oh well..... These cars need, and fortunately, LOVE to be driven. The Italian tune-up is a reality.<p>As far as styling goes, it's subjective, but I really like the 156 and ever since I've been paying attention to Alfa's I've found that the designs are an aquired taste.<p>With all the merging of car companys, hopefully Fiat, who owns Alfa, will find a partner with stateside dealerships and make inroads back to the U.S. It was rumored to happen with Volvo, but we know where that went..................<p>Still waiting........................................... .................................<p>Enzo<p>The "A" List:<br>Wife's -- 98.5 A4 1.8T QMS<br>Mine -- 84 Alfa Romeo GTV-6<br>~ROMAN RACING~ 82 Spider ITB<br>Dog's -- 90 Acura Integra

Enzo

That's the 156 not the 166........ nt.