Alfa 156 - The best Alfa saloon ever?

[@aston-martin-internationalist]

In a depressing world of copy/pasta SUVs and crossovers, this cuts even more of a dashing streak. Always loved these, such.a fresh design still.

[@TassieLorenzo]

An Alfa dealer will sell you a Tonale and tell you its just as good! 😂

[@furiousdriving]

and they will be wrong!

[@jasonandreoli4135]

My wife and I daylied a V6 for around 3 years on our 100mile round trip commute. Yes it had a few issues from time to time but nothing serious or worth worrying about compared to the joy we got every single day and that polished chromed inlet manifold even made me smile when it broke down. We never should have let it go.

[@426baron]

3 years later I am still suffering from letting my beloved V6 Sportwagon go. I can barely watch Alfa content and long for the joyous screams of its fabulous engine.

[@zzhughesd]

Dailied. Hard spell. Dailyied. Daily-ied

[@stephenbrookes7268]

I just drove from Aston University to Reading, about 100 miles. My V6 used half a tank of E5. I love the sound it makes, but do miss my 2.4 jtd for long runs.

[@Mr330d]

@@stephenbrookes7268 half a tank on 100 miles? That’s disgusting 😂

[@stephenbrookes7268]

@@Mr330d it has done about 300 miles on a full tank. I'll just have to put my right foot on a diet I guess.

[@stephenbrookes7268]

I just got my 4th 156 and I think my 10th Alfa. This time I decided to completely go for it and got a V6. I have never had an unreliable 156. I could wax lyrical about the styling, but you have said it all. Whatever anyone says this car always puts a smile on the driver's face.

[@stephenbrookes7268]

@@richardjohnson3463 I had a GT with that engine. It seemed ok. Some nutter ran into it on a roundabout. Apparently you don't have to give way to the right if you are a self entitled little pr... I never got to find out why this engine has such a bad press. Do tell!

[@derbigpr500]

This is one of those cars that feel like it's been developed by people who really know a lot about driving and what makes a great car. So, the complete opposite of 99% of modern cars.

[@paulwhite9040]

I ran a 2001 V6 from 42k to 100k miles, including across that harsh winter a few years ago when I saw -14 degrees C when starting it in the morning. It was utterly reliable, a brilliant, brilliant car. Lovely seats, great styling (mine was silver, side skrts, but no spoilers), teledial wheels, beautiful noise, the engine was so smooth that it felt like it ran on double cream. I think these are absolutely underrated and will, sadly, not be remembered with anything like the credit they deserve.

[@Vylkeer]

Were the skirts an original optional or aftermarket? Alfas are more reliable than people think they are.

[@VolvoMoose13]

@@Vylkeerafaik only the GTA and TI edition have sideskirts. Any other edition should have aftermarket sideskirts.

[@Vylkeer]

@@VolvoMoose13 thx.

[@timhancock6626]

We had a 156 2.4 JTD Sportwagon 150 10 valve. We did about 100,000 miles in three years, then my wife wrote it off in 2010. The 156 was accessible and affordable and stunning looking. We loved ours and had very little trouble. I still miss it. It was my fifth Alfa and sadly I haven't had one since

[@roverchap]

I've owned a 2001 2.0TS Lusso for the past two years and done 17,000 miles. Now showing 125,000. I have had no breakdowns or warning lights but I have had to renew the rear suspension, a couple of wheel bearings and had the floor pans welded. The transmission is getting a bit noisy but I guess all that it acceptable given the age and mileage. It's just such a beautiful car which looks better with each passing year, surrounded as it is by the hideous bulky SUVs and saloons of today. These cars can still be picked up for buttons, crazy really.

[@benfearnhead9851]

Didn’t plan on spending half an hour watching a 156 video this morning but all I can say is it’s a good job you’re not a salesman - and/or that my wallet is sadly empty. You’ve really highlighted perfectly what makes these cars so special from a design, build and feel-good point of view. I had a 159ti with the 1750tbi engine which had such great solid build quality and that Italian charm and style that made it feel like a baby Quattroporte. I get the impression the 156 is a lighter more delicate (in a sublime way) even more refined car. I also had a modern Giulietta which borrowed those rear door handles and I’m now in a gorgeous 2004 GTV with the same 2.0 JTS engine and, I believe, a Walter de Silva designed interior. Consider me subscribed and I look forward to equally enthusiastic reviews! Cheers

[@theautodelta]

A masterpiece from Alfa. I had the pleasure to drive my first 156 TS 2.0 back in summer of 2000 and kept it till 2008 in exchange of a 159 2.2 ti. I was hooked by the 156 virtues that in 2016 the holy grail of the 156 series a GTA was added in my garage.

[@carmanick]

I agree that the Alfa is one of the best cars ever made. I had a 2002 Alfa 156 1.8 Lusso (phase 2 like this one), which has got to be the best version, with the origianl styling, but colour coded with the new interior design which really modernised it. Mine was pale green with tan leather and the 7 hole wheels. I had many years and it was very reliable. Should never have sold it and would buy it back in a heartbeat. The display in the middle would always fade if hot air was coming out the vents, my climate control was in Fahrenheit not celsius, and 'October' was spelt 'Oktober' despite everything else being in English! The window controls were also super sticky. The circular air vents were using in the Lotus models. The 2.0 JTS had 165 hp, it essentially replaced the 2.5 V6. the 2.4 JTD was also the first common rail diesel ever sold! A truly amazing car. By far one of the best cars ever made, so much attention to detail and so special for such a mainstream model. Should be celebrated and remembered more than it is! Hopefully your video helps with that.

[@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain]

I knew a couple of people that had these and I got to valet one, a dark green example with a red leather interior and wood style steering wheel, it was rather lovely, he tried selling it but had no interest, so he gave it to the local church as a pool car for ferrying people about and they broke it within a month or two of ownership, wish at the time I had the cash I would have bought it outright! Another car I missed the boat with as yes I have been scouring marketplace not many examples near to Edinburgh that are either spares or repairs!! The other person I knew had a SW for a company car, best company car he had then the company replaced it with a Vectra Estate!

[@furiousdriving]

these are super reliable if they are being loved, but you cant treat them like an old Civic and (as a pool car) no one give it the attention it needs or it will fail. Mine was serviced on the button, every 12,000 miles and never had a problem, although I was at the dealer at least twice a year!

[@matthewgodwin3050]

This was just like an episode of Antiques Roadshow. I'd like to bet that if Matt was asked to describe his wife, he wouldn't be half as passionate as he is describing the Alfa Romeo 156. What a great car.

[@alfaromeu]

I laughed really hard 🤣😂😂 great comment

[@f.d.robben159]

For some years, I was the proud owner of a V6 from 98. No spoiler, silver, red leather, wooden shifter ( 6 speed ) and steering wheel. It sounded and looked amazing. The breaks were not that great and the timing belt replacement and oil changes ( 10w60 ) were quite costly. But surprisingly very reliable

[@ikhan5]

My first car! I had a black 1.8TS which I kept for 7 years, and it was as reliable as any other car - nothing major went wrong with it (and I still miss it, what with the Cybox Exhaust). My brother had a grey facelift 2.0JTS Selespeed Veloce, which was a beast of a car, but plagued with electrical issues (Selespeed pump was also replaced once). The only downside to owning one was the cambelt which was supposed to be replaced every 72,000 miles/ 6 years, but was halved to 36,000 miles/ 3 years due to failing tensioners. Cost at specialists (with replacing the variator as well), was around £450, which was a lot of money every 3 years! PS, they were designated 932 and not 962....

[@maxidyne]

One of the nicest saloon cars ever. Styling is superb, interior ace. Only one remark: the reviewed car has one thing I personally I don't like: the spoiler on the boot. Looks out of place on this car. Great review Matt!

[@robterry1663]

I currently daily a 156 Sportwagon 1.8 T Spark, it’s a series 1 with the slightly different dashboard to the one featured and with a beautiful tan leather interior, had 58k on the clock from new when I bought it, currently only on 70k. Out of all the cars I’ve owned it’s definitely my favourite, I’m struggling to think what I’ll eventually replace it with

[@schnuffelpuff3923]

I have a 2002 1.8TS with the facelift engine and interior (blue Momo leather spec) but the awesome oldschool exterior as a summer car and I absolute love it. I'm currently looking to put a Giulia QV next to it :P

[@426baron]

My 156 Sportwagon V6 (and my 156 1.6) were the loveliest things to drive, hear, look at and seat in. Every detail designed and engineered to please one's senses. And the musical howling of the V6 !!!! I am so sad I no longer have them.

[@mike_ctid_taylor]

I owned a 2l Twin Spark Veloce and also the 2.5V6 Veloce . I loved the 156 and think it is the best Alfa saloon, just the best saloon. I saw the 156 at the motor show and that was my 'I must have one one day' moment. I hanker after a 156GTA now funds allowing.

[@Bumper3D]

I had a slightly older 156 2.5 V6 in a similar silver colour. A wonderful looking thing that was a blast to drive. And to be honest it was pretty reliable too and even in -20C winter weather it was a warm car with a great handling on the slippery roads. The only big flaw with it was that the floors rusted through even if it was barely over 12 years old back then. It also had pretty terminal rust on the chassis rails, in the scuttle panel and a few other places. Unheard of for someone that was driving 80s Peugeots before the Alfa! If it wasn't for the rust, I'd probably still be driving the lovely 156. It's just one of those cars that look and feel so good that it makes you want to drive around all the time! Also worth mentioning was the wood steering wheel and gear knob option that was a lovely retro touch. Thanks for the review video, brings back some good memories!

[@buickmclean8163]

I have a 1.8 lusso , I agree about the wooden steering wheel , better than leather

[@richardhargrave6082]

I had a 156 SW and loved it, prettier than the saloon, I think The TS engine and steering were brilliant Wish I'd still got it The example here is a half facelift with the new interior and the original face. Ironically, the electrical issues that didn't really help the reputation were largely supplied by Bosch... I always say that an Alfa is for driving, not drinking in, so why would you need cupholders? If yu need a drink, you stop and sit outside, looking at its wonderful lines The Giulia is a worthy successor I keep thinking about getting another

[@fhwolthuis]

What a nice car, Matt! I remember my first drive in a 156 in November 1997. It was a revelation! I only owned a 147 JTD 8v myself but I still miss it. Those 8 valve diesels had a 5 speed box, by the way. Don't miss the cost of all the suspension parts I had to replace on a yearly basis but otherwise it was a very sturdy car. You should talk to the owner of this one and add it to your fleet if he ever sells it! ❤️🍀

[@furiousdriving]

I dont think hes going to be selling it any time soon!

[@fhwolthuis]

@@furiousdriving maybe sending him an "equestrian present" might convince him? 🐴😂😉

[@nigelennis5807]

I so love this car. I still have mine, 19 years later and I am the only owner! 2004 year. Mine is the same colour with the same boot spoiler. With a service each year and some TLC it has been trouble free. How has an emotional attachment 🤗❤️

[@Lot76CARS]

Matt, these are such a pretty cars and so well received when new.. but I recall the Alfa Romeo programme for leasing company staff back in the day to get them to promote the car.., sadly, the number of breakdown and (electrical) faults had the opposite affect. Would I have one? Of course, the survivors will be long since sorted by now! One of the prettiest mid size saloons EVER designed. Worth buttons, but surely this has to change?

[@philcreek74]

I ran a 2ltr twinny in the very rare Achilles blue. Had the side skirts and also the very big rear wing. Never let me down, I even drove down all the way to Milan for the Alfa Centenary. However the 156 did like to munch front wishbone bushes for breakfast...

[@stephenbrowne4644]

I had the same one in the rare blue! Absolutely lovely car looked so cool... Unfortunately rust got the better of it. But was the best car I've ever owned! Have a 145 now so still happy driving 😁

[@Grimwriggler]

an Alfa is always a happy place Matt.., my favorite alfa saloon is the Pre facelift 166

[@iainbradley2847]

I had a 156 and since got a 166, both Twin Spark 2 litres. Problem with the 156 was floor rust and an electric sunroof which would not close.It took weeks to get it sorted. Not a great recipe in West Scotland! BUT I always noticed how effortlessly it handled motorway speeds + and was accorded respect in the outside lane. Its successor was the gorgeous and much under-rated Peugeot 406 coupe, an even more capable and economical high speed cruiser but never as easy to progress in the outside lane. Coming to the point;- the 166 has the most sumptuous interior finish, fantastic seats - the most comfortable I have ever experienced and clad in the finest Italian leather, 6 speed gearbox and for my money, in Mk 1 form, the most achingly elegant body. Drag coefficient quoted 0.30 or 0.31 but then it has the " advantage " of length over the 156 and inherited the same superb suspension system. ( Reputedly it was high ups' disdain for the original Lancia Kappa set up that delayed the 166 launch till after the 156 ). Matt did a superb report on the 166 3.2 Busso but for my money the lighter, smaller 2.0L Twin Spark gets the accolade as the best looking Alfa saloon. Mind you with the 156, 159 and Guilia as rivals you would happily waltz out of the ball with any one of them!

[@paulie-Gualtieri.]

Still looks fresh and modern, great looking car indeed.

[@zsoltpapp3363]

I agree that the 156 was one of the best looking saloon cars of the last decades (from this period, the Opel/Vauxhall B Vectra and the bmw e46 3 series were my other favorites). I dont like the rear wing on this particular car though, i think it looks a lot better without it.

[@centrelinecadd]

I just bought a gorgeous 2002 V6 manual in silver just as nice at least as this one. Cant wait for it to arrive, its currenty on the other side of Australia

[@pereldh5741]

This sold like cupcakes here in Sweden too. For Scandinavia, the heating, headlights and rustproofing was really good. Interestingly, the 156 looked best without skirts & spoilers.. so clean! (I.e… your’e wrong 😊) The 5-cyl was of course the Fiat engine, and it was always 20v or 4 valve/cyl. Unlike late 70’s Audi’s… Also the TwinSpark was based on the 1995cc Fiat Lampredi engine. Totally agree on the italian leather! Germans had a lot to learn there. My Fiat Coupe leather was super smooth & hard wearing, super quality. It looks like the steering wheel is at its least reaked position? Thats what I liked about it’s cousin (Fiat Coupe) - my 1st Fiat without italian driving position, loved it.

[@Liban46227]

I agreed the best looking the first series with the wooden steering and gear knob and wooden look console with the 15 inch teledial wheels. As per the brochure.

[@TheOracle65]

I had a 1998 Alfa 156 2.0 TS from new just like this one but in metallic black as a company car. It was a great car, superb handling, fantastic engine and very handsome. 3 years and 120k miles later I had to give it back very reluctantly. Hardly missed a beat despite hard use.

[@stephenbrookes7268]

Please do note. If anyone gets a TS engined car and had only ever run ordinary cars. Check the oil every week. They burn oil, not a fault just a characteristic.

[@TassieLorenzo]

I find it very amusing that a 2L four-cylinder engine calls for 10W60! Delightfully characterful. 🙂

[@furiousdriving]

1 litre per 1000 miles - and thats in the owners manual! Some use more, my 145 uses none

[@stephenbrookes7268]

@@furiousdriving A mate of mine didn't know this and his engine was deposited all over the M4. I am still waiting to see if my V6 is as thirsty for oil as it is for petrol. I was putting in 1/2l per 3 tanks full in my 1.8 TS. These cars certainly do have personalities.

[@BlackLines]

yes, mine died at 57k but it had an oil pickup issue. Quite a sad day when it happened, I'd still have the car now if it hadn't.

[@BlackLines]

I briefly owned a 2.0 T-Spark and I thought it was fantastic.. Black with nice chrome bits, black interior and the proper cloverleaf alloys ... I loved it until it died of oil starvation at only 57k (turns out it had an oil pickup issue). It made a very pretty driveway ornament for a couple of weeks until the scrapman arrived. Would definitely own another one now that I'm more mechanically inclined.

[@llewsep]

Dearly miss my 1.8 TS. Unfortunately rust got into the rear strut points on the body. Was going to cost a fortune to repair for MOT.. Hell of a car to drive, especially with some spirited driving. The engine loved being worked as well. I had so much fun. Just a brilliant car.

[@Strike86]

The 1.9 JTD engine was the world's first production common-rail diesel engine (revolutionary in 1998 when it was released). Quieter, smoother and more powerful than any other diesel in the same capacity. The 156 is also Alfa second-best selling car, after the 33.

[@donny2327]

One of the very finest late 20th C car designs. Not a big car in any way but it looks just so poised. I had one once. Had to. Loved it. The only thing that is missing on this example is the chrome Alfa grille? Great review.

[@MajorKlanga]

Great review. I had a 2.4 JTD and it was the best car I've ever owned. Smooth, comfortable yet fun and sharp. I sold it approaching 100,000 miles because things started failing. It was also plagued by the usual front suspension frailty. One thing I hated about it; changing the dipped beam bulb on the nearside was the most fiddly, frustrating job ever.

[@simonhodgetts6530]

I remember that from my 156 - and it also used to get through sidelight bulbs alarmingly regularly - but changing the bulbs on my Giulietta is even worse - a bumper and wheel-arch liner loosened, battery moved, headlamp out job……I’m a dab hand at it now, but the first attempt took over 3 hours!

[@lucylovitt9583]

Try doing a Mazda MX-5 headlight bulb....no different. Wheel off, liner out and impossible to see what you're doing.

[@rayanderson921]

I use to have a 2002 with the 5cyl diesel, the sound was incredible, and the torque! I absolutely loved that car, I changed it for a GTV

[@bri77uk1]

Beautiful cars to look at and drive. I've had two, a 2000 2.0 TS and a 2003 2.0 JTS Selespeed. A couple of points though - This is a first facelift car with the JTS not Twin Spark, so only 4 spark plugs here, but the extra power. To be honest I didn't notice much difference between the two in performance and think the TS was a sweeter engine. I preferred the interior of the pre-first-facelift, especially if, like mine, it had the wood wheel, gear knob and dash. Also I'm 99% sure that the boot badge does swing to reveal a key hole... Although that could have been the Spider I'm thinking of.

[@schnuffelpuff3923]

yeah, when the engine and interior faclift came in 2001 (i think? or 2002?) there was only the 1.6 and 1.8 as Twinspark engines. The keyhole in the boot might have been a early version as my 2002 with the facelift 1.8TS with facelift Momo leather interior doesn't have that

[@FOXeye95]

my 97 one does turn the boot logo to reveal keyhole. @@schnuffelpuff3923

[@davidm3225]

I've always loved the asymmetric number plate placing.

[@furiousdriving]

Me too!

[@marklawton5753]

Hi Matt just one point the JTS engine is not a Twin Spark engine it has four spark plugs not eight. Having owned saloon's and Sportagon's, twin Spark and JTS ( my current car) and all ALFA Red! The Twin spark engine is a much more sweeter engine the JTS is direct injection and has a somewhat odd beat to it, not as smooth as the twin spark. I have also found personally speaking that the sportwagon feel less nose heavy than the saloon, the wagon feels more balanced. I have never had a breakdown in a 156 but the suspension needs almost constant renewal. OMG and engine oil consumption in the Twin Spark it is around 1 litre per 1000 miles in the JTS its much more and if its run on the recommended Selenia racing oil as mine is, it is not only hard to find but also expensive £84.00 for 5 litres was the price I paid for the last can its not cheap either. But what a fantastic car! I have had a 156 as my main car for 20 years now and one day I will have to move over to something else. I don't want to think of that, it will be a very sad day indeed !

[@furiousdriving]

I did say the JTS replaced the TS in 2002, so as this is an 03 thought that covered that!

[@vojin54]

@@furiousdriving Yes but you said a couple of times in the video, t spark, for the starter motor sound for example :D

[@furiousdriving]

@@vojin54 it os the same starter, block and only stighyl modified head so I stand by it lol

[@r.whitt90]

Really enjoy your channel. I've just got my 156 twin spark back on the road, same spec as this one. Don't think I'll ever part with it now. Great review!

[@rgfromkl3594]

I daylied these in hot and sunny Dubai when I lived there some years back. I had two of them and the first one was a V6 in silver exactly like the one in the video. It had wood trimmed momo wheels and was a lot of fun, the second one was in red. I got so obsessed with the brand and even invested in a small garage along with a mech. Was quite an experience. The quick steering made a big difference and it loved the high revs. One of my favorite cars ever.

[@wouterkolkman]

Brings back fond memories - had the 2.5V6 followed by the 2.4JTD when my annul mileage increased - 2.4 was probably the fasted when it comes to in-gear acceleration.

[@gryfandjane]

What a lovely piece of rolling sculpture… and the mechanicals complement that beauty in such an exciting way.

[@niceviewoverthere4463]

Tis a lovely thing indeed. The Italians certainly know how to make a machine appeal to the heart. Same goes for their Moto Guzzi bikes. I bought on of those for my wife and soon found that although it had a knack of making us feel great, the chocolate gaskets and spaghetti o-rings kept failing and every part took 2 months to come from Italy. In the 2 year warranty period we had two engine rebuilds, a final drive rebuild, a new speedo and the tyres perished. Oh - and a gearbox. Then we sold it and I narrowly escaped buying a 156 which I had yearned for previously. Still, that 156 is probably British built by now so is most likely a thing of not only beauty but also dependable.

[@truxton1000]

I had a black 156 with the 2.5 V6, it was glorious. I was hooked after the first test drive, just mesmerizing. I put on a Supersprint exhaust, the sound I will never forget. Too bad it had a fair bit of problems, but it had sooooo much to give....

[@alfaromeu]

Thank you for this video it was absolutely awesome and entertaining super fun to watch ❤ I own a 156 1.9JTD (diesel) for 14 years and the car is from 2002 so it has 21 years and all I can say is all you said there. I also lack the words to describe the emotion and pleasure it delivers and the connection it creates with you like it possesses you 😅 , when someone asks me why Alfa? One has to drive an Alfa to understand. Peace

[@gringostarr69]

Bought one at 2007. Loved it. It was breaking down most of it's life with me, but one the best cars that I have owned and made a smile to my face while driving it. In finland there are snow and salt on the roads during winters so the floor etc rusted away. The engine was brilliant till the crack bearings broke and went to in to block.. The rear door handle when it freezes will snapp when it's -15c..

[@gringostarr69]

Went to buy a chevy van and saw the alfa and just wanted it from that second so I bought it. My friend knew quite a lot from alfas so went show it to him but he couldn't see anything wrong in it. Lots of money "wasted", but it was great great drivers car..

[@gringostarr69]

Mine was 1998 and it was flipping rear alfa badge with keyhole in it.

[@chrisbury4635]

I was very fortunate to have worked for Fiat/Alfa Romeo when the 156 was launched 😎

[@corruptor911]

That unmistakable t.spark is actually a JTS engine, which is not the same 😂 cant believe the comment section is not raving

[@davidmacleod3442]

That and the reference to a stretched timing chain 😂 apoplectic 🤬🤣

[@beaconriskmanagementlimite823]

There was also a 4 speed h pattern auto box from Aisin which was mated to the 2.5 V6 car . Bulletproof box too .

[@Jam3sA]

My favourite looking Alfa saloon. The sideskirts & shorter spoiler particularly make this one. The only thing that harms these is the massive number plate plinth required in the UK.

[@TassieLorenzo]

To this day, the 156 and 147 are incredibly pretty cars when seen out and about! To be honest, I'm not sure whether the rumours that a cheap 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 "shed" would cost more to maintain than say a cheap 2005 Honda Accord Euro "shed" are true or not? Thankfully the Honda rusting is not an issue here in Australia (no diesel Accords in Australia only the 2.4L, while I would avoid the JTD and go for a Twinspark, JTS or Busso 156). Some seem to say 159s and Giuliettas cost less to maintain, but that would seemingly deny the 147 & 156 already having a reputation for impeccable durability? 🤔

[@stanislas4990]

Congratulations for your beautiful Alfa Romeo 156. The front grill has to be in aluminium (as it is originally), but not black. It would be much better. I have own an Alfa Romeo 156 SW 2.5 V6 a long time ago, and it was one of the best cars i’ve ever had.

[@joshbacon8241]

Why were the all-wheel-drive Q4 variants and jacked-up Crosswagon variant never built in right-hand-drive, and only built in left-hand-drive?

[@furiousdriving]

all wheel drive was very popular in mountain parts of Europe so there were lots of LHD continental Europe only 4x4 cars (BMW did a few as well), but UK market for them wasnt there. Now BMW, Mercedes, Audi all do all wheel drive estates in RHD

[@kevinoakes1171]

I had one of these a couple of years ago and instantly fell in love with it. I had a 159 too, at the time but and needed to sell one of them. Unfortunately I sold the 156 and regretted it ever since. It was a fabulous car and I sorely miss it.

[@ralphpanhuyzen7861]

Agree. Boot spoiler is a no-no. I had two, sedan and SW. Ultimately, rust is a problem. Engines are bullet proof. Get rid of the 17"wheels and suspension suffers less.

[@woodant1981]

My dad had one with a 1.6TS and the only correct config: Rosso Red and Teledial wheels!! Still a brilliant car and great fun. Sadly, pouring blue smoke and tapping away it went to big scrapheap heaven! Good times though, and if i could afford the insurance on one (under 25 AND an old car, no chance!) I'd happily have one

[@AlejjSi]

Ah yes, the 156 was one of the nicest cars when I was a kid. Sadly, when I was looking to buy a bigger car like this (had Skoda Felicia before), there were virtually none in at least decent condition, confirmed by the fact they often did cost 1/3 of what I paid for the Felicia. And now, you just see none at all. But I can confirm the passive rear wheel steering is great, because eventually I managed to find a great looking 2001 Lancia Lybra 1.8 VVT, which is basically a 156 cousin and has the came rear axle. Also i can confirm the sticky italian plastic, got that too. Even the side of the centre console is sticky. I only realised after my friend in short trousers sat on the passenger seat and rested his leg against it and after he got out found out that his leg is black :D I also see some common parts used in both cars like the centre big cabin light and also the small in the back (incredibly, my Lancia has 6 lights - the two big, then one above each rear door and also the same under each of the sunvisors o_O), the ashtray with the cigarette lighter or the doorcards. Good job on the Alfa you can use teh handbrake with the armrest down, in the Lancia you can't.

[@johnphaceas7434]

Currently onto my third 156 - all were series 1, pre-facelift V6 cars, with my current car being a 2002 GTA that serves as my daily driver (Just ticked over 270,000km). Brilliant, beautiful, and brutal. The only negative comment I would make is that the later post-2002 facelift version (by Giugiaro) totally ruined the purity of Walter de Silva's perfect design. That said, even the facelift models are infinitely more attractive than pretty much any other car of its time. While to my eye, the original is still the best looking "mainstream" sedan of the last 30 years, and still looks contemporary today. I'm so glad Alfa never facelifted the GTA, and kept the original front all the way through to the end of GTA production in 2005.

[@nagisaian]

As a mechanic these beautiful cars were an amazing place to be they also financed my first home

[@willswheels283]

Lovely car all round, I particularily like the sporty dash with those sunken clocks. Alfa certainly make their cars almost like an “art form”. I’ve wanted to try an Alfa for a while but I’m not sure I’m brave enough or got enough financially to buy a really good one. That one looks nice, if I was to buy an Alfa it would be one of these. Thanks for a great review Matt, enjoyed it.👍

[@MilanStojakov]

I love this video, and couldn't come at better time as I'm looking to buy a 156 as my second car!

[@DarjanBar]

best review of the car I've seen so far!

[@davidp4456]

A wonderful review. It took me right back. I had the same car in a 2.4 turbo diesel and I loved it. The same in every detail apart from the sun roof and the spoiler. Mine was an ‘03 as well and I’d easily take this car back again. It was a company car that I eventually gave back in return for a Passat estate 😢. The sound of the engine was amazing as was the handling on the road. It was super fast, I remember the first time I took it out and it went to 100 without me noticing, when I quickly had to slow down. Later when I changed jobs I bought a ‘56 face lift 2.4TDI Sports Wagon. I particularly liked the shape and the added practicality in the boot area. However this was not as good as the ‘03 saloon and gave me no end of mechanical problems which my Alfa ‘specialist’ struggled to fix (I don’t think he was very good or ‘specialist’). It was a sports version with low profile tyres which gave a very hard ride. It had terrible problems with the turbo and some of the fixed engine parts that would strangely break giving my ‘specialist’ a hard time finding replacements. Alfas are great cars, notorious as you know for reliability and build quality. My ‘03 156 saloon was super and you’re tempting me to trawl the market for another one. Thx

[@carlosfandango6255]

I had a black one with a tan interior. It was lovely and the only problem I had with it was a puncture and the handbrake wire broke. I used to turn the radio off to listen to the engine.

[@paultaylor9652]

Excellent video on a beautiful car Matt. Give me an Alfa of this era over a boring German equivalent any day.

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

I've driven loads of miles in a 1998 two litre twin spark in the early 2000s. I agree the lovely door handles and thick sumptuous leather made it felt quite special. It's a shame that by the time this later one one was produced, Alfa was already starting to cost-cut by removing the chrome from the front grille. Sad.

[@colinbrown8316]

If you get the chance, please review a 147 selespeed. My second car after my Rover 115SD...... I adored it. That 2 liter twinspark engine, the flappy paddles..... It was just the most incredible thing for a 22 year old. Thank you for doing this review.

[@Gabriell0684]

That brings back some emotions. My 156 had to go and now I have a 159, which is nice but a completely different experience.

[@pukkieswl1305]

I had one a face lift 2.5TI V6 running the CF3 Busso and a 6 speed manual trans it has around 250k km’s on it and still went well. They are really nice cars the headlights are crap even by the standards of the day and it’s got a turning circle of an ocean liner and the suspension wears out rapidly. But with the Busso on song you felt you were in something special…

[@alanfitzy6056]

I had a 156 facelift, god I miss that car! GN53MVK 😊 2.0 JTS veloce in a dark grey/blue metallic and multispoke 17’ wheels. Unfortunately sold it to a guy who exported it to Europe. I hope it’s still being enjoyed somewhere out there

[@simonhodgetts6530]

I was like you Matt - as soon as I first saw the 156 in the motoring press, I knew I had to have one - even more so when I saw the Sportwagon for the first time…….alas, I was 25 and just starting my first job when the 156 launched, so I had to wait a while…….but, in 2010 I bought an immaculate ‘05 plate Giugiaro facelift Sportwagon, in Stromboli Grey with a beige leather interior. It was my second Alfa, following a 145 I’d sold 5 yrs previously……..it was just awesome - I always felt like I was stepping into a real luxury car when I got in. In the time I owned it (not long enough by the way - around 2 years - I changed jobs and had a company car due to the miles I was doing), it let me down once - I think an oxygen sensor (it was obviously unremarkable if I can’t remember what the fault was)……it’s the only car I’ve regretted selling. Although I currently own a Giulietta, I am seriously thinking of getting another 156 and having it restored to use as a daily driver classic - but there few decent examples around for sale now…….

[@sjcuk]

You clearly love this car so faults are few. I also love the styling but I have never been able to convince myself that it looks like a coupe. Now I know why. Saloon length front doors on a faux coupe. When the Morris Marina did this on a real coupe it had the same effect on me, back in the day. It shows that things can be more easily forgiven when the overall package is so nicely done.

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

I was riding my bike today and I saw a black 156 on the side of the road. So I joined the owner and we just looked at it for hours until the roadside assistance came 😂😂. Beautiful machine

[@petersunderland1312]

I prefer the shape of the estate I had a v.early 2.4 diesel with 5 speed! Great car but got fed up of rebuilding the front suspension. Agree with all your comments well done

[@donaircooleone]

The 2.4 20V was a gem in these!

[@furiousdriving]

yes! renamed mine to 200bhp and it flew, and still got 55mpg on the motorway!

[@andynorton5431]

I had my v6 Veloce as my daily for 10 years,very reliable and as i serviced it myself incl timing belt etc it was cheap to own,except for fuel of course....loved that car. Great review,thanks...

[@alansorbie4038]

I’ve always liked these. In 2004 or so my local Alfa dealer had a load of new 2.4 diesels for sale with about £6k off list price. Sadly I just couldn’t get comfortable in it, seat position relative to the pedals seemed odd so I hung onto my sensible Passat.

[@TassieLorenzo]

If I'm not mistaken the B5 Passat is quite a bit physically larger?

[@Pmjs]

I had a VW Passat 1.9TDI 130bhp SE 4motion 2003 kept it for 6 year's.

[@alansorbie4038]

@@Pmjs mine was a PD130 SE too but fwd. I bought it new in 2002 and did 75k in 3 years then my brother bought and took it to 90k or so. He sold it to a taxi company in Wolverhampton. It died about 10 years ago with over 300k on the clock

[@grayfool]

They are very lovely. Far more interesting than most other rep boxes of the time.

[@Liban46227]

I love the 156 i owned many models and still have a 1999 twin spark 2lt. Manual in fantasia blue and one 2000 v6 2.5 manual in cosmo blue You are right are fantastic car to drive and to look at

[@Muushondje]

What a superb and passionate review. The 156 is an Icon !

[@tino897]

I’m really thinking of buying a 1.8 ya 156 in White. Very rare to see white Alfas. I do miss my 1.9 and 2.5V6 156s so I guess it’s gonna be time to buy another. Currently driving a 2001 Passat V6 but I just need a 156

[@v285ljx]

Lovely car 👍we owned a 156 for 7 years absolutely trouble free 😁 replaced with a with a 159 3.2 ti q4 which we've owned for 8 years

[@ElgiNDuffeR]

Love the Alfa's Matt!!!!

[@davidsherrick898]

1980s Gtv6 the best looking Alfa! 2nd is 164, Ugliest is the 75, I'm ugly and love my Milano! 3rd on'e after 16 other vintage Alfa Romeo's. I get its looks, but still love those wheels, the '75' 3.0 V6 has probably the best vintage phone dial rims, Great video! I just subscribed!

[@RichieRouge206]

You have met my friend Tom who has the R-reg 156 V6 that was at the NEC Show. It’s just a fabulous car… period. And that Busso…. Heaven. I think it’s one of the finest looking cars ever made. Fantastic review Matt!

[@furiousdriving]

yes, I was drooling over the one at the NEC!

[@andysaunders3708]

The only part of the design I dislike is the relocation of the rear exterior door handles - screams of making a sedan seem to be a coupe. Front doors look too short to be a 2 door car - just like the Marina Coupe. Don't do 1/2 the job. If you want to disappear the door handle, then hide the lot, or fit them all, like people who can do joined-up writing. Comprehensive and interesting video. Many thanks.

[@iainwilliams4226]

My boss in my first jobb had one of those as a company car. Infinitely cooler than my self funded 1989 1.3L Vauxhall Belmont 😅 Thanks for the memories 😊

[@nekite1]

I remember the Belmont as I had one briefly - probably the dullest car to drive ever.

[@Stephenb033]

That car is credit to it’s owner. I don’t think I ever seen one with a black grille, but I like it.

[@andrewthornton2562]

One of my all time favourites, especially in Sportwagon form. Great to see your review. Maybe time to sell the 145 and buy a 156?

[@MineshShah]

To my recollection, it was the first car to hide it's rear door handles in the C pillar... Now loads of car manufacturers do it!

[@furiousdriving]

156 door handles!

[@fhwolthuis]

No, Nissan invented it in the 80s in the Pathfinder 5 door.

[@MineshShah]

@@fhwolthuis Thank you for the heads up!

[@johnmoruzzi7236]

@@fhwolthuis Ironic because it looks so crap on the Juke… makes that car even more odious…..

[@JamesG75]

I had one of these coming up to 10 years ago (I feel old!) and it was superb. Really wish I'd kept it longer

[@chrisrichmond403]

I am always at my happiest when driving Alfa . I first started driving Alfa’s & everything else in the Fiat SPA group in late 1999 when i got a job at Portbury Docks Nr Bristol as an agency employee for Walon ( Portbury Docks is where Alfa’s come into the UK New to be transported to the dealers) . Over the years stemmed from my work at Portbury i have owned 6 156’s ranging from a 1.8 T Spark to 3 2.4 JTD’s , I have also owned a 1.9 16V JTD & a JTS , I have also owned a 159 My engine of choice is the 2.4 JTD variants what got me SMG ( Smiles Per Gallon ) .. Oh that 5 Cylinder engine sound … Beautiful when under load . As i type this i am in a head V heart conflict , I have been Alfa Less for many years & missing having & owning one…. But I don’t have the space to park one where i live … Ahhhh Conflict ….

[@nekite1]

A great review - the only fault I can find with the 156 is that I prefer my 159 ti steering wheel! As for reliability, I have had my 159 for four and a half years, and it starts on the button (with a good battery) each and every time.

[@timhancock6626]

The buyer got ripped off on the cruise control. You could buy the steering column control lever pack for about £70 and it was plug and play on our 02 Sportwagon. I know because I did it. I want one again all of a sudden, but good ones are rare. Spares are a problem, front wings are almost unobtainium and cam variators are very expensive.

[@danmccarthy4700]

This has to be one of, if not the most beautiful sedan built in the past 30 years. Although (and I know I'm probably in the minority here) I think it'd be even better looking with more conventional rear door handles. There just seems a bit missing to me with the handles stuffed away in the C-pillar. If I ever owned one of these, I'd spend hours just walking around it and taking it all in.

[@MyManiacGamer]

Had a 147 1.6 t spark loved it, unfortunately was too expensive to fix when the gear selectors went. Desperately would love a 156 V6 now, or a gt

[@Andy-eo3mq]

How about replacing the beetle with a 156? Then you could tell your wife that you have another practical car on the fleet, lol! 😉

[@furiousdriving]

it could happen..

[@Andy-eo3mq]

@@furiousdriving keeping fingers crossed!! 🤞🏻🤞🏻

[@keithm.404]

Alfa Romeo 156's are like good-looking narcissistic bi-polar women. Great fun to have, but eventually they will break your heart. That's why i had three of them over the years.