Alfa Romeo Brera S: Did Britain Really Save Italy's Flawed Beauty?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

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[@christianoverkliftvaupelkl8552]

4 month ago, I bought a Brera for my wife(hmmm a nice present for myself :)

[@richardw1992]

James you're not QUITE right about the roof point. The late Peter Cambridge (ex Prodrive engineer who worked on the Brera S programme) exchanged a few emails with me explaining their great plans for the Brera S. Unfortunately due to the timing of the Brera S programme and the GFC of 2007/2008, funding was very quickly withdrawn. When they might have once planned to replace the glass roof with a metal panel, it became much cheaper for Alfa to continue producing the same cars with the glass roof. There was still logic to Prodrive ditching the panoramic roof panel though because it saved the weight of the motors etc. At the same time as the introduction of the Brera S, the regular Brera went through a "facelift" for model year 58 onwards. This broadly involved interior changes rather anything visual on the exterior, but what a lot of people over look is that all of the facelift cars featured the same weight reduction as per the Brera S. The panoramic roof from this point forward became an optional extra, whereas before in the UK market it was part of the base SV or Skyview specification. So you will often find on the facelift cars, even non Prodrive, that they have the headlining blocked up. Peter said there were plans to introduce a 1750 TBi version of the Brera S and with the addition of the new 2.0 diesel on the facelift cars extend the platforms life further to due to now having better emissions standards. Unfortunately the plug was pulled on all of this and by 2010 the last Breras off the line started to almost become parts bin specials... The most desirable cars in my eyes are any of the facelift models, because they have the better looking interiors and are also generally higher specification with more optional extras, with the TBi and the 2.0 Jtdm being the rarest of engines. They definitely have their quirks and pitfalls, they are heavy. The driving dynamic is more GT or luxury cruiser than sportscar. The window switches are a common failure point, as you have found, along with subframe corrosion, but other than that they really are quite robust and a very well built platform, and still the best looking car ever made in their segment.

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

There was a 1750TBi Brera and 159 sold here in Australia

[@GYoung31]

@@richardw1992 finally. Someone who knows what they’re talking about 🫡

[@Matty-B-on-an-MTB]

Great comment, you seem to know a bit about alfa's!

[@Phil4-13]

Just quality, nuff said !!! 👍🚗. !! 👍👍

[@richardw1992]

​​@@themancuniancandidate2744yes there was in the UK too, although only about 65 were sold here with that engine before the Brera was discontinued making it very rare. In my comment above I was specifically referring to the Brera S Prodrive programme which was only ever the 2.2 and 3.2 engined variants.

[@bingonightly]

The Brera has a number of gloriously Italian quirks... The boot release is hidden inside the centre armrest/glove box (obviously) and then there is no handle on the tailgate because it looks better without one, so you have to squeeze your fingers in the gap to lift it up... But don't do it if it's been raining because water will run off the tailgate badge into the boot. The trip meter reset button is between the fog lights by your knee, rather than anywhere near the clocks. There are no cup holders because in Italy if you want coffee you sit outside a cafe where you can watch all the pretty Girls walking past, and there isn't really anywhere to put your sunglasses because the sun shines most of the time in Italy so you would be wearing them anyway. The instruments are marked with "Benzina" "Giri" and "Aqua"....its all rather wonderful!

[@emiliomoncher154]

Your brain is sick see a doctor

[@2011SoxMD36]

@@bingonightly the lack of a cup holder in my 159 did absolutely do my head in. Kept my sunglasses in the centre console, which unfortunately as a side effect meant I’d used nearly all of its space.

[@staggabob]

With an Audi TT water runs off the boot hatch EVERYWHERE into the boot if you lift it after rain. Just the badge seems barely an issue 😉

[@interestingvideos8127]

Another rubbish car

[@AXLCOKE13]

@@2011SoxMD36 I keep my sun glasses in the designated compartment right above the rear view mirror in my 159....does yours have a sun roof? and for the cup holders alfisti don't want nor need cup holders I'm on my 4th Alfa

[@шпикачька]

I'm sorry, but this is literally one of the most (if not the most) beautiful hatchbacks in history. Upd: stop discussing how correct it was to use the word "sorry", it's stupid - English is not my native language

[@lptomtom]

Why are you sorry?

[@michaelyounes29]

Not difficult

[@rasherbasher8203]

Looks just amazing. ❤

[@redsidebiker]

@@lptomtom Don't be sorry, its gorgeous

[@redsidebiker]

@@ChrisPatrick-q6k I owned a 1980 Mini 1275GT, do you want to discuss subframes? I also had a 1985 MG Metro - though that was floor and wings. Subs on an Alf, I'll take tvm.

[@michaelsharman8988]

I've had two Breras. When my daily (S-Max) broke I had to use my 3.2 Q4 instead. I've had so many comments on it's looks and sound; much more than any of the classics I've owned, it's really surprising. The 3.2 Q4 is totally worth the extra unnoticeable weight. It's not put a foot wrong in two years of sun, rain, ice or snow. The 3.2 suspension geometry is different, so when you get your tracking done, quote the manual. Thanks to this, it is actually responsive and enjoyable. Every time I get out of my Brera, I smile. It's enjoyable, it's fun, and it's different. I did remove the front subframe to have it shot-blasted and powder-coated. I can tell you, even with no subframe, the engine stays in place! I changed all suspension bushes for powerflex and fitted a full set of BC racing fully adjustable coilovers. I don't care about rear leg room since I'd happily throw rear passengers and luggage under any bus for looks like this. The switches are a £10 fix if you buy amazon silver solution. The 3.2 brakes are excellent and fill you with confidence. For all the critics out there that claim it understeers, sorry it doesn't. It corners flat and neutral with oversteer when you push it beyond the limit. There is one caveat; my Brera drinks more than a Geordie lass on a bank holiday weekend. This evening stuck in the wake of Sunderland football traffic she did 15MPG. Do I care though? Nah.

[@dusankocisevic6823]

So true. And my Mito also drinks a lot😅😅🇮🇹🇮🇹

[@Dave5843-d9m]

Spray the insides of your subframe with chain saw bar oil thinned with white spirit. It’s an amazing rust stopper. BYW, I had my Fist rear subframe zinc metal sprayed with epoxy over that. It’s a system used on Brixham fishing boats so “that’l do pig”.

[@alessioschiavone3898]

they make up thoseurban legends to damage alfa and the made in italy in general. the subframe is massive it must take 10 years of rust to compromize it. i smeared in with motor oil

[@kierencheung3788]

Never clicked on a video so fast in my life! Got two of these parked up on my driveway 😂

[@redsidebiker]

Jealous as anything butt

[@jondonnelly3]

Good chance of one working then!

[@DD-fc1rv]

Lucky bugger, beautiful looking they are. 👌

[@jami7772]

Got a low mileage black one, 2.2 with 'S' wheels. A fake 'S' with leather dash ! Love it !

[@davekennedy6315]

​@jondonnelly3 no chance! They'll BOTH not start, or run in hot or cold or damp or foggy or sunny or windy or dry or rainy weather. Never understood the appeal of an Alfa Romeo, especially the FWD models? Several look kinda pretty but other than that?

[@littleblackcloud86]

The 159 this is based on is honestly, i think, one the greatest looking cars ever produced. This isn't that far behind - both could be released today and look pin sharp and 'current' - Very few 17/18 year old cars you could say that about!

[@2011SoxMD36]

I had a 159 estate while I lived in Germany. I had every intention of keeping the car because I knew for a fact that it would be a modern classic some day, but moving to the UK I had to let it go because the car was just so wide, it was rather sketchy to drive from the left seat the one time I brought it to Britain

[@squaregaming8964]

I'd say the only modern looking car that's around 20 years old. Is there anything else?

[@npanic628]

​@@squaregaming8964 well, another Alfa, the 8C

[@Mr.Marbles]

@@squaregaming8964 id throw in the honda civic FN2. closing in on 20 years and it looks like it could be a modern car, including the lightstrips. and i mean that just from the timelessness aspect of it. i know many people find it ugly haha.

[@asimmalik6378]

The 159 and E39 BMW are the two best looking saloons ever made, both completely timeless.

[@stu1002]

Here's the thing about Alfas:, back in the day, when I were a young lad in my 20s, I owned a couple of Alfa Romeo 147s. They didn't cost me much. Every single time I drove my car I was stepping into a little bit of Italian romantic magic. I now own a Maserati Granturismo Sport - a car which would for most people be considered a massive "level up" from any Alfa. My first thought when I got in it the first time? "Oh! This really reminds me of my old Alfas!". There's really nothing else than Alfas which gives you anything like the "special" feeling at anything like the price point an Alfa can. You just always have to decide if that magical "sparkle" factor is worth all the other crap.

[@darcyhermsen2122]

Greetings from Adelaide, Australia! I'm the proud owner of a 159 1750tbi Ti and I absolutely love the thing to bits. Being a late model I feel it solves a lot of the issues many point out with the platform. In 2008 there was a facelift where Alfa made a lot of the front suspension and steering parts out of aluminium, saving about 50kg of weight over the front end. The 1750tbi engine, is lighter than the 2.2 and (in remapped guise), has nearly as much power as the 3.2, as well as having more torque. The result of these changes is that the car has a much more manageable kerb weight of 1430kg. Partner that with the stiffer springs and the 19" rims of the Ti and you have a well handling car with enough grunt to get you in trouble with the law and lots of practicality and comfort. Just did 1100km on a road trip on the weekend and the car was fun and comfortable the whole time. I'd recommend checking out a 1750 with a remap if you can!

[@nakoma5]

Now that sounds like the winning formula!

[@ProfessorDataD]

I also own a 1750 Tbi Ti 159 down under (New Zealand). Unfortunately I haven’t had the best experience with mine. I love it but it’s had some issues that haven’t been cheap. This particular car was a bad purchase for me, paid too much for it, spent lots of money on it and now struggling to sell it for half of what I bought it for.

[@TwinSparx3005]

I had the Brera Ti with the 1750 Tbi engine back in 2012. It was possibly the best and most stunning Alfa I’ve ever owned. Sadly, the children came and I had to sell her off in 2016. I still miss her.

[@marlonbaird6070]

Hi Mate whet in NZ are yiu buying parts?

[@Dave5843-d9m]

How similar is that engine to the 1750 twin cam that was used in Punto Mk2 HGT? I loved that car.

[@jessj8313]

I adored mine. I had road presence and I never failed to look back at it when parked. But it was heavy, and made up of many GM parts. A weird relationship with a car. But I'd have it back in a heartbeat. Also, I never used the rear seats, I just went to IKEA with the seats down. Essentially a small van.

[@stvarnonevjerovatno3700]

Probably the best looking van ever.

[@MarcGee]

The 2.2 engine drove me mad as the chain kept stretching. So I bought a 159 TBi and put that engine in the Brera! (Well my great indie did) Still have it and love it.

[@Inazuma68]

Absolut beauty, if only it would have been 500 kg lighter. My Alfasud QV was 890 kg, my brothers GTV6 was 1250 kg and his 75 America as well…

[@Mr.pawahh]

@@Inazuma68 same, I think of it weight around 1200-1350kg it would've been able to compate with many hot hatches from it's day and even the 2010s

[@geoffgraham6247]

My first Alfa was a 1975 Sud Ti. Bought from a friend for peanuts; he had had the thing from new. It wasn't old (in terms of my previous cars) and he was about to scrap it. I thought I might be able to rescue it. Was I wrong... For the few remainng months of MOT, it was great fun to drive. But the big, flashing red light is the "sud" in the name. These were built near Naples, which is a stranger to salt on the roads. Close examination of the wet carpets revealeto go sledging on a popular hill, close to where I had parked.d that, not only was the floor entirely disconnected from the inner sills, but removing the tape from the inspection holes of the latter showed that there was quite literally no rust protection in there. Not even paint. Fast forward a few decades, and working for a small bricklaying company, I 'inherited' a 156 V6 24V as a company car from an outgoing director. Wow. TPTB didn't exactly welcome the news that these things are supposed to be serviced, and mine was overdue by tens of thousands of miles. The service, including cambelt, cost rather more than any car I've ever bought with my own money, but serves them right. My biggest gripe was that the sound system didn't have an input for a microphone located by the exhaust. The sound of the thing was glorious. On one site visit, I thought it would be informative to see if the top speed was correct. This being on a stretch of the M23 without cameras or "Police vehicles only" lay-bys. Let's just say I wasn't disappointed. Subsequently, I bought two more from eBay. The first was just as good. Ran it without issues until a company Mondeo arrived. Having thoroughly cleaned and detailed it, I sold it to an Alfa enthusiast on eBay for slightly more than I paid for it. Post retirement, I put a silly bid on another one. This was a mistake. I'm in Surrey; it was in Glasgow. I won it. For not much more than the train fare to collect it. It was cheaper to fly BA from Gatport Airwick than go by train. Which I did. I wasn't impressed by the condition of it, but - faced with a very long walk otherwise - I drove it home. Still, I persevered. I vacuumed most of the cr4p out, and used it for a few months. Until I went shopping, and it snowed. By the time I returned home to my village, it absolutely refused to ascend the hill to my home. So I left it parked on the main road. Walking past it three days later, it looked different. There was crisp packet under the wiper, with a note in it. "I'm terribly sorry, but I seem to have reversed over your car." The writer had taken his kids to a popular sledging hill, close to where I had parked. I worked out the cost of a second hand bonnet and front panel, threw a notional £100 in for my labour. He settled for that, and our local postman delivered the cheque without the need for a stamp. "Sholud I fix it?" I asked myself. Nah. I rang the scrapyard, drove it there, and weighed it in. With the catalytic convertors, what I received for it, together with the aforementioned cheque, meant that this had been another 'free' car. Dodgy eyesight means I don't drive any more. I think the 156, Brera and Spider are gorgeous. But, living four minute's walk from a station, I'm now into EVs - namely 450 class 'Desiro' EMUs...

[@eric-wb7gj]

@@geoffgraham6247 Thanks for story, glad you had some miles out of them!

[@jfv65]

Love the looks but no thanks. Btw for the 159 people seem to want the 1750tbi.

[@snoopy10411]

Reminds me of a hotel I went to in Italy once when upon arrival the owner said not to trust the Hot and Cold writing on the taps in the bathroom because there is a possibility that they were fitted the wrong way around?? Not quite sure why he had never bothered to go around and check/rectify them all. Would have probably taken him a day and saved him having to tell people all the time. Never really understood the Italians.

[@R03333]

I love this story, the taps still work so what's the problem? You'll soon work out if you're using the wrong one

[@chrisdavidson911]

You remember going there. There's no way that's why they're backwards, but it's like free marketing to leave them that way. There's also no way that that's why they've been left either

[@markkarm9253]

laziness mixed with "i don't give a shit". That's what Italians are composed of...

[@mckennab]

Have a late 2009 2.4jtdm one of these. Have sorted everything including the peeling red paintwork and it really is perfect now. Stored away for the wetter months but love to bring it on drives in summer evenings. Appreciate it is a heavy boy but its not a car i ever want to throw into corners - i actually think the weight makes it a great cruiser. I love it and will never sell it. A future classic for sure

[@deramon1000]

Brera's biggest problem is everyone parroting each other with very few people actually owning and knowing what they're talking about... Sad, because it really is a nice car.

[@kim007250]

Correct

[@michaelsharman8988]

This is absolutely the truth. The internet is awash with regurgitated soulless hogwash. A copy and paste free for all with little informed anything.

[@devejo]

This is actually a good thing... keep quiet please...

[@racefanrob]

True (says an owner)

[@GhostyDog]

It really isn’t, but then it’s an upgrade from an Astra…

[@v285ljx]

Great video 👍we own a 3.2 ti q4 159 are you interested in giving it a drive?

[@mikeypv6]

I hope he says yes 🙏

[@remuaja84]

Loved mine!!

[@thomasparthenay1791]

I really think that the 2.4 JTD Diesel is the best choice for an engine for this car. The torque really helps with the weight, and the 5 cyliinder diesel sound isn't even that bad. If you can get over the cold weather startup sound, it really is a good option.

[@racefanrob]

I have a 1750 TBi with stage 1 tuning that does 380 Nm. I like that 💪 😉

[@BIGREV-b6k]

I always thought the GT was styled better. Also the fact it still run the busso makes it more of a modern classic Alfa in my eyes.

[@downesy68]

Four years ago I was tossing up between a Brera and a GT. In the end the GT won, primarily because it had the Busso rather than the Holden engine, but also because we already had a 159 Sportwagon on the driveway so I had the benefit of seeing that beautiful Giugiaro face whenever I wanted anyway. Still have the 159 and GT and haven’t regretted buying either.

[@939driver]

The Brera is a future classic for sure!!! 🍀 I'll never sell mine! 🇮🇹 These cars need some love and small improvements, but then they get very nice to drive 💚🤍❤️

[@roobarb8463]

I fell for the looks and had a 3.2 from new for a while. I really wanted to fall more deeply in love with it over time but, for the reasons you've pointed out, I never did. I'd guess it was perhaps something like dating a supermodel. Feels great initially, but after a while you begin to realise that beyond the looks there might not be a lot else there. Happily cars are pretty easy to trade in.

[@milospinkfloyd3325]

Brera owner here but still managed to make it to Kylie concert back in 2019, 400km from home

[@deargdoom8743]

Had a Misano Blue 2.4 turbo diesel between 2009-13 and I loved it. Still thinking of buying another it was that good.

[@BobbyAngmalaysia]

Drove the 159 2.2, handles well, lively (for a FWD) and performs ok. Was dying to get my hands on a 3.2 V6, finally drove it and was left disappointed. The V6 with Q4 is heavy, uncharacterful and just blunts the car. The front end just doesn't want to turn in, unlike the 2.2.

[@GiulioImparato]

Davide Cironi , probably the most authoritative automotive content creator here in Italy was of the same opinion. According to him the 1750 was the one to get especially because that engine can handle big power and is the lightest

[@frankchan5547]

Not to mention the GM V6 is awful to look at compared to the Busso V6

[@hhh7929]

Le V6 en Q2 est très agréable, j’avais une MIto Qv avant d’acheter ma Brera, elle est aussi amusante et tiens remarquablement la route !

[@calummorris-astro]

I bought one of these a few months ago (I was actually thinking about emailing you about it!) and I had no idea it still has that glass roof! I know what I'm having done when the car goes for it's service next week! For those wondering about performance, I do recommend having a slight ECU update, as the engine components can handle a little bit more power (insert as many rrr's after as you feel appropriate), and the car does respond well to it. Great video as always Jay!

[@DutchBatNL]

It may have its flaws but being sooo beautiful makes all good. Don't buy it as a hatchback dont buy it as a sports car, just get it as a nice design piece to cruise...(and show ;) .......bella machina!

[@vadim6385]

@@DutchBatNL just keep it in a climate controlled bubble, because the looks are the only good thing about it. The bubble is for keeping from disintegrating, so you can sell it to some collector with more money than common sense.

[@schwifty9520]

4:24 RIP, snail 😔

[@andygtv]

Davide Cirone sums up the Brera handling at the end of his review when he runs away from it.😂

[@PascalJonker]

We have a 159 SW 1750 TBI with TI package in Rosso Competizione. With Pilot Sport 4S tires and Squadra tuning just perfect. A nice and beautiful family car with enough space to go skiing with 4 adults and cruise over the autobahn. It handles very well in mountain roads and has very balanced standard suspension. Nearly no understeer present. When compared to a naturally aspirated E91 BMW 325 or 330 it’s actually better as total package, in my opinion. And the latter are difficult to find with manual transmissions. Also cost of ownership regarding maintenance are not that different compared to BMWs with similar performance. If you give cars like this the beans, expect some costs. Since we have the car, almost every month someone approaches me and asks how much I want to sell it, underlining that it really stands out from the crowd.

[@brianbradford3363]

I have exactly the same spec, just in Alfa Nero. I wish it was red! But unfortunately here in Aus we only received 2 wagons with the 1750TBI and they are both black cars. I agree on all your points. My car has a stainless downpipe and the larger turbo from the Giulietta with a local ecu tune. Incredible car to drive!

[@PascalJonker]

I am going to work for a year in Sydney two years from now and am considering to take ours with me! So maybe there temporarily will be 3 1750tbis in Australia then ;) Also looking to the turbo upgrade. What clutch do you have to handle the extra power? I think you must have around 300 HP / 480 nm?

[@AlexTenThousand]

The 159 Platform was built in collaboration between Saab and Alfa, and originally meant for a 166 replacement (the Visconti concept being the only thing left of that project), but GM's usual monetary issues and the fact Fiat wasn't really into the idea of a followup to the underselling 166 meant it was used for the 156 replacement. And, given that history always proves me right: the 159/Brera, shunned for being "too heavy" weigh about the same as the Giulia, ever-so praised for being a lightweight car.

[@quackman]

I love the steep-angle views of the wheels rolling along, like at 3:44 and others. Shows off the unique, circular Alfa pattern well

[@j4stice746]

My 159 had pretty much all the same issues as you mentioned. The window however, you can do a soft reset if you hold the button down for 10 seconds and it should work properly again. For a while. Then it will do it again. Loved the 159, have had 4 Alfas in all and still have one sat in the garage, but I daily a Nissan.

[@nickscapellato8248]

THIS was car that got me into cars. Flash back to me buying Need for Speed Carbon and choosing this as my first vehicle. Mind you, I wasn't that much into cars and just thought I'd give the game a go but something about the looks and fact that we never got this in the US set me off the deep end. I can't wait until we can import these (maybe).

[@andrewgoodger8843]

Like most I wanted to love this car. I had a super clean black 3.2 Prodrive S. I had the roof re-trimmed to see the glass roof... and from any angle that wasn't directly side on, it was beautiful. But everything else about it was numb, bland and/or expensive. It drank like a fish regardless of how hard you were driving, there was no joy in extending it... it didn't handle, wasn't practical, not fast etc etc.... It got sold....for more than I paid, to a collector, and now I can enjoy it. The pictures I took of it any way, and the rose tinted memories of it. Because actually it was pretty awful, especially as it didn't even have the famed Busso engine.

[@bogdanbosoi1483]

Agree, I also had a Brera 3.2 4wd ( among other Alfas), I really wanted to love it, but everything you pointed out is true. It felt heavy, slow, the side/rear visibility outreageously bad, the GM V6 was bland and boring and ...omg it drank petrol on par with a CL600 v12 I had! After it I bought a 147 2.0 selespeed as a daily and it was such a revelation: nimble and fun!

[@syntetiskvag4458]

I own one of these for six months probably the worst purchase of my life but loved every single drive in it ❤

[@davidsherrick898]

We missed out on the Brera here in the States. My mechanic loved the looks. I did too, but I live with an 1988 Milano Gold, today. Still love it. Great video as always!

[@mzungusi]

I had never given the Brera much thought until I saw one in the flesh , in Bucharest no less . I kinda fell in love with it on the spot. I've never driven one and maybe I never will, but if I ever bump into one that's for sale and I have money....I might.

[@quackman]

I really like how exposed the headlight area is. rare to see that on a car, and it looks great!

[@infinite_azure_]

The Brera was one of the first cars i ever fell in love with- my love of cars came (and still does) from games and one of the starter cars you get to choose from in NFS Carbon is the brera Such a good looking hatchback and im not a hatchback guy at all. I think its because it has such coupe looks rather than the horrible raised rear most hatchbacks have

[@Lee_Pitcher]

The 939 Spider variant is criminally underrated. Owned several, worked on a lot and stripped down a couple. They're really well built/engineered. The 2.2 you really do have to work the car hard to get anything out of. 1750 are rocking horse do do to get hold of and expensive and the 3.2 sounds great but the visit to the fuel station was as bad as a Granturismo. Oddly the 2.4 diesel with a rear box delete doesn't even sound like a diesel over 20mph. Subframes can rot (and won't show up on an Mot report) but this is due to the engine bay undershield holding water. All of the parts rarity niggles can now be resolved/repaired. Treat them as more of a touring car and you won't be disappointed.....just be prepared to get your hands dirty as with any Italian car that's 15+ years old. Oh JTS - jet thrust stoichiometric (only Alfa could come up with that name)

[@WendenWarrior]

Did a 5000km round trip to Italy and back with my 2.4 diesel 159 in July, with zero problems. Yes, the window switches play up over time, but that can be sorted by changing the window mechanism.

[@marlonbaird6070]

A guy in south africa mated the brera rear end to the 159 which created a 5door brera..gorgeous and atill maintaines the beautiful lines

[@stevetomato4802]

Living, my whole life, in the US the only exposure I've had through the Brera is that episode of Top Gear but, desperately wish that we had them here

[@michaelhipperson1554]

I have a black 2006 Brera SV 2.4JTDM..200bhp..5 cyl...but 40mpg plus. Bought it from my son who spent a long time searching for one which had been subject to TLC. So far so good after 2000 miles. Deffo a good looker!

[@LRSTGS]

Never understood the criticisms of the handling. I owned two diesel 159's. Mid spec. For context I've owned a 997 with a GT3 chassis, a Clio Trophy, TVR, E type, etc...I've also done a bit of track driving. At the same time as I had my first 159, a friend had an S4. The 159 was much, MUCH quicker and more composed through the corners. I suspect owing to the incredibly high torsional rigidity, which was the highest in its class, being stiffer than the E93 3 series and all of its competitors. The 159 remains one of my favourite cars to throw into some twisty bits. Miss mine!

[@eksebro]

I had the Alfa 156 in the past and loved it ❤

[@bad.sector]

159 SW owner here, and this is probably the car you want to get. Same looks on the front, similarly gorgeous interior, but more space in the back for everything and everybody. Since I now own the second one: No, electronics are NOT flawed. They are actually reliable. The only thing you'll get is warnings on low battery for ABS/VDC that will go away either by a restart of the engine (earlier models) or automatically (later models). Window switches are not the same there and were reliable for me for more than 13 years by now. The engines you want to have are the 1.9 JTDm 150 (more torque in 2nd), 2.0 JTDm, with F40 gearbox (2011 models did have the weaker C653, on which the engine has less torque), the 2.4 JTDm with 210 PS (more torque on bottom, more importantly: The cylinder heads cracked often on the 200 PS model), or the late 1.8 TBi, which unfortunately is also connected to the M32 box, but has 320 Nm of torque, the same as the 1.9 JTDm or the V6 (and has better economics than the V6). My M32 gearbox of the 1.9 JTDm broke down, but had it fitted with larger head and bushings by Opel and then never had any issues again. I expected the 1.9 to die on my foot, but it never did, and I sold it at 160.000 km. Suspension: The normal 159 suspension is perfect! The Ti suspension (which I do have now) is not. That one really informs you about every slight change of underground. Wish they had the Ti interior with normal suspension. Model years: Don't buy anything earlier than 2008. Those can be identified by the trunk button on the Alfa logo (earlier models had it in the driver's panel at the top). The 2008 revision dropped the weight by around 50 kg, and they solved several reliability quirks.

[@ZxRx7]

Honestly, I am a fan of the GT.

[@Sevastous]

I bellieve 159 saved it and Brera's unique/coolness took the spotlight. 159 marked a new age for manufacturing for Alfa Romeo. The type of manufacturing going from the Vanquish to Db9 for Aston. Both in terms of production technique,volume and quality

[@jamiekelly9762]

159 is by far a better looking car

[@christophegenbrugge6815]

​@@jamiekelly9762 Especcially the shooting break

[@italianduded1161]

if I'll ever buy one, it must be 1750tbi or 2.4jtdm. not Australian engines.

[@kbk9535]

We have a 1.75 Tbi Lancia Delta. It's certainly better than the aussie engines, having driven the 3.2 and I imagine the 2.2 can't be better. But tbh it's still quite lackluster. As much as I prefer petrol over diesel, in this case I'd go for the 2.4 jtdm with a remap.

[@pffyespff]

2,4 diesel is a catastrophic GM boat anchor, I had one in my 159 wagon Ti. Tyre guy said he had never seen in 20 years that high officially required front tyre pressure numbers, that engine was soooo heavy and it felt exactly as heavy as it was. It had exotic gearbox though, Aisin, shared with BMW i8, some Fords, Jags and GM cars. I just didn't enjoy that car at all so sold it ASAP. But yea, beautiful looking cars. Timeless design.

[@kakotokakoto2746]

​@@pffyespff2.4 is Fiat engine. It was put in AR 156,159,Brera, some Fiats and Lancias. 5 cylinder diesel that actually sounded pretty good and its crazy reliable and durable. Also, pretty good gas mileage. Yes, its not Miata but still great engine. DPF/EGR off plus some good tune and it will push 250hp.

[@pffyespff]

@@kakotokakoto2746 Yea but it's really heavy and awful, it destroys 159's handling completely. It was used in a Croma which shared GM platform so I thought maybe they used it in some GM product. As JayEmm said above whole 939 was based on some GM luxury car platform.

[@davidstuart4915]

@@kakotokakoto2746 I was pulled toward the 2.4, however subsequently discovered the engine has a huge design / wear flaw....causing catastrophic failure - would u give a balanced detailed view on this, so others can balance the risk

[@paulblathwayt5152]

Went to my local Alfa dealer to buy a Bera and was sold a spider, wasn't hard, had some really good road trips with it, but got scared by the supposed fragile electric hood and p/x'ed for a diesel 159 sportwagon a practical beauty

[@nordsmetal]

I bought my 159 3.5 years ago, took 80k km in it, it is a 1.8mpi sw. I am in love with it. Ok, 140hp is not much for it's 1.5t weight(still lighter than that brera what you driven in the video). But it is practical, other people easily fit behind me(my height is 5'10). I never encountered any electronical anomaly, or fault(I needed to change 2 bulbs in that years), windows are working perfectly. It is an early model from 2006 december. Not encountered any mayor problem. Chassy still have no any spot of rust. But subframe is corroding too, but it can be replaced, new one is for 400-500 eur, and restored ones around 200 eur. So it is worth to replace. Also other brands have that issue as I seen, with audis, volkswagens, (I don't mention japanese and koreans, cause the chassy maybe start to rot earlier, and the subframe rotting seems insignificant compared to that)

[@lockhartflawse1225]

Might have mentioned it had over 110,000 miles on the clock. They all have dodgy window switches. Mpg isn't great, the back seats are truly hopeless and I would have preferred a bench or just extra boot space. But my Prodrive has been totally reliable for 9 years. It has no rattles and nothing has fallen off. It's a really nice car that looks like nothing else on the road.

[@McMarschmellow]

I was looking at a 159 wagon which would not have the impracticality and space issues but the weight is what put me off entirely. A 3 series competitor with 5 series weight is a deal breaker imo.

[@kebabaluba]

As a 159 SW owner myself, yes they are flawed but have a character. Common issues: Wet carpets as rainwater gets in, window regulators fail due to rust and age, so are handbrake wires as they rust and fail, weak transmissions on certain engines, worn suspension bushings and components with annoying squeaking sound etc. But at least they can be bought cheaply...

[@pauledwards8383]

I've had a few Alfas, currently own a 2.2 Brera spider and absolutely adore it. In my humble opinion, you have to drive one James! I'd offer mine for the channel, but there are likely far better examples than mine out there. But, you'd be welcome to it if you wanted to try one. All of the niggles in the hard top suddenly become much less important, it's like to waft along gently unlike my old 159. And when driven at a more GT like pace, it all makes sense.

[@pauledwards8383]

Oh, and the window switch can be fixed with an allen key and a pencil...

[@colinwatson4172]

Had a Q4 SV. One owner with 45k. No issues but parted company when it came to taxing it. Was 500!back then and the 996 was about 280. Great little GT that looks sounds great. Don't look on them as hot hatches or sports coupes and you won't be disappointed.

[@jonathancollard3710]

I yearn for the good ole days when coupe’s like Sirocco, Prelude, Celica, heck even Capri and Peugeot 405 were a mainstay of part of mainstream lineups… what you missed James is that these were cars that made YOU FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE to them, not one that slotted into yours… flaws, design deficiencies and compromises were what made cars interesting…

[@GrooveTasticThang]

Corrado! !

[@markevans4088]

That story about the roof is great.

[@james.james99]

Having owned both a 156 and a 159, the 156 is just so much better to drive and live with. The 159 is beautiful to look at, but it doesn’t hold a candle to the driving experience to a 156 GTA or 2.5 V6 manual. The 159/Brera won’t be a future plastic but the 156/147 GTA already is

[@wouterkolkman]

Loved my 156 2.5 V6:-)

[@bicyclist2]

To bad we never got these in the US. Now that some are older now, hopefully some people will import some. Very cool. Thanks.

[@StephanRota-zi4wc]

I own a tbi Brera since a few years and love it, it’s quite reliable as well.. regarding the roof story, all of the Brera do have the glass roof, some are covered others have the so called skyview roof.. mine was covered as well but you can simply cut out the top cover to enjoy the glass roof 😊

[@ecan533]

I had one of these, albeit the 2.2. I loved mine, not fast but it was very special. Also destroyed the Nero tyres thanks to its weight. Prodrive also added a new anti-roll bar. I remember Chris Harris doing a review on it when he had hair.

[@TIMMEH19991]

I always preferred the GT

[@christophecamus3295]

Beautiful looking car, truly stunning. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@conorlydon4839]

The window switch button is easy enough to fix. Once the module is out and opened, some electrical contact cleaner on a swab over the contact points for the switches fixes it right up. It's an age related corrosion issue

[@iannolan-f4g]

That car SAVED it's owner from a Kylie gig. It should get a medal!

[@interestingvideos8127]

You have no idea of beauty. Kylie is stunning.

[@alanstonelake2673]

The alfa sounds better. That's for sure😂

[@iannolan-f4g]

@@alanstonelake2673 😹

[@liamkilroy9478]

@JayEmnOnCars Soooo... two things... 1. That lack of rear seat space sounds like an excuse to remove all the rear interior... Weight saving, better handling and economy, maybe even a budget track car? 2. Would you ever consider a series/segment on the car audio side of the market? Even if it's just an inclusion to vehicles you are already reviewing? Excellent videos as always, keep it up 😎

[@johnphaceas7434]

The window switches on all my 156s have had their own special tricks to successful operation, generally along the lines of going down no problem, but to close, you needed to pull up and slightly outwards. All a case of learned "feel". And the rear windows almost always would intermittently stick in the open position due to a lack of use (no one ever sits in the back of my personal cars...) Sometimes resolved with a well considered whack with the side of my fist approximate to the motor, other times resolved by removing the door cards and squirting the motor with electrical contact cleaner or as a last resort, actual removal, lubrication and a whack with a small hammer ...

[@themerchantofmenace3645]

I have a 3.2 159 with the Q4. It has its share of problems. It’s not especially fast , economical or reliable - but I still love it. Such a beautiful thing to look at, but I’ve always preferred saloons to hatchbacks 🤷‍♂️

[@simonh870]

The M32 wasn't a GM gearbox, it was actually a Getrag. The F40 was a GM box and was far more robust, if a bit clunky.

[@Stelvisti]

After driving 5 times a 159 I am now driving a Stelvio but on the look out for a Brera Ti 1750 Tbi in White with the tan leather interior. I kept the Prodrive 19” wheels , sold the last 159 sw (also white ti) with its original ti wheels .

[@Jenkiniho]

Jay any chance of a 1.8 review? I've heard they are the best of the lot, mainly due to the weight saving.

[@droomonsta]

I have a Mk1 Puma from 2001, a Brera is my eventual upgrade.

[@davidthomas1424]

Let me know when you want to sell the Puma 😉👍

[@fortheloveofnoise]

let me know before the other guy when you want to sell it

[@Matty-B-on-an-MTB]

I'm a former Alfa Romeo master tech, and in my day, if you'd of cut me in half, one half of my inside would have been a cross, the other a serpent! I cut me teeth as an apprentice on 33's and ended on Giulietta's, Mito's, 159's and Brera's, with everything else in between. I really wanted to love this car, and its bigger brother, the 159! But it was so underwhelming compared to the out going GTV-6. The (Vauxhall) V6 engine... had no life (Don't start me on the 2.2 petrol!). It did loosen up after a few thousand miles, but it was never as revvy as the busso. The (Vauxhall) gearbox... was like shifting railway points levers. The handling... just wooden. The general drive and feel was just not engaging and lacked ambition and character. The interior was clumsy compared to its predecessors and the exterior received mixed opinions. Had it of not had an Alfa badge on the front I think it would have taken a lot more flack than it did. The S model was a great improvement with the weight saving and trick suspension, it really did show, but for me, the coffin was sealed. Alfa didn't even do a launch as such, not like they did for the 156 and 147's, where they took dealer staff out to race circuits for a morning on the track, an afternoon on the road with some fun stuff in the middle. They just went "here, it's new, sell it!" I owned three 156's, two of which were Busso, and one 2.0 twin spark. They were an absolute delight to drive and I often found myself going for a 3am blast around the Malverns, or the Welsh border. Especially in my twin spark, it just darted from corner to corner, and although it wasn't the quickest car of its type, it loved to be revved, the steering was sharp and you could push it into a corner a bit too eagerly and be pretty confident it was going to let you off. The Brera felt like it was wrestling you by comparison, like taking a Shire horse around Cheltenham, similar looks, very different outcome. All that being said... (Before i get hunted by the owners club)! I took my dealerships Brera (2.4 5cyl JTDm) home for a weekend and drove it for a good few hundred miles around wales, much to the sales dept displeasure at the amount of miles I put on their demo! And I kind of clicked with it eventually. I spent what felt like hours messing with the driving position, which was quite alien if you just got in and drove, eventually finding a position which offered a bit more of a positive experience on the steering wheel. And the torque delivered by the JTDm was far more entertaining than than the V6 power, especially on a twisty B road, you could shift between third and fourth and hold the torque right in the sweet spot, which made the drive feel a little more engaging. I have still never aspired to own one, in fact i'm looking for an Alfa Romeo project car as I type this, but sadly, a Brera isn't on the shortlist. One thing it DID do very well though, which you could argue was its key success, was it brought new customers into the fold. The 156, was targeted at 3 series customers, but didn't really grab them. 156 drivers didn't really get the 159, or the Brera, it was heavy and cumbersome by comparison, but it DID get the 3 series customers, for a while, thanks to its weighty feel. Lease companies liked them as they felt better built, and the numbers the JTD was offering were at the time, second to none. Fiat and Alfa had of course, just mastered Direct Fuel injection, the first car company to do so (Iveco anyway) so the MPG/BHP/ftlbs numbers were impressive and this sang high in the lease world. In conclusion, when you see Alfa Romeo jump into bed with Vauxhall, walk away! But of course, there will always be Alfa owners who just love Alfa's for what they are and are blinded by the badge somewhat, those of who'm will hate all of what I have said. But i feel equally, there will be older Alfa owners who made the switch and get exactly what i'm saying. Will it be a future classic? I don't know. Amongst Italian car lovers, yes of course it will, but it will never have the "pazaz" of an SZ, which it's loosely modelled on, let alone the accessible fun of its predecessors.

[@DjNikGnashers]

Fantastic, informed reply, from a person with the necessary experience to be listened to.

[@Matty-B-on-an-MTB]

@@DjNikGnashers Appreciated!😀

[@chamaileon81]

I'm drooling over a Brera, a 159 and of course a 156. I don't care about horsepower or torque, since taxing in Greece is hell for large displacement, so most of them here are the bottom end engines. I'd just love being inside and cruising in such gorgeous and characterful pieces of art.

[@andybishop1984]

I have also had a few Alfas, loved them but always reliability problems. A gorgeous black GTV had 5 (5!) windscreen wiper motors in 2 years

[@nathandepasquale9571]

Always loved these. Absolutely bellisimo 🤌🤌

[@GoldenDragoon]

About 6 years ago I put a deposit down on a V6 159 Q4 and left it with the dealer to fix a couple of minor paintwork issues, put some new tyres on it and an MOT fully expecting to pick it up in a week. 4 days later the dealer called me up and explained that the subframes in places that were not easy to see by peering under the car, were so rusted out that they were held together with nothing but hopes and dreams, and the 4 wheel drive system had decided to become 2 wheel drive. Although I love the 159/Brera’s looks I did need something that was reliable so got a BMW 3 series from the same dealer at an extremely good price due to the issues they found with the Alfa.

[@XeniosKofteros]

Actually the Brera S was more of an exercise in convincing the British Automotive press that the car was fixed and that it would drive as sexy as it looked. 2008+ was a facelift for all the 939 models (159, Brera, Spider) and they all got lighter with parts like aluminum uprights vs steel. 3.2 got an option for 2WD for all versions and the 2.4 got 210 Vs 200 courtesy of a new Garrett turbo. Also All pre 2008 Breras are SV (Sky View eg. The interior curtain). Post 2008 it was a paid option so not limited to the S model. The S is very comparable to the mainland Europe Ti version that the UK never got (lowered, optional leather dash, sporty pedals etc). My guess Alfa UK chose not to to keep the S exclusive. S was a plain Brera, imported on steely wheels and had all the "special" parts installed at a warehouse. Some dealerships had the parts installed to other cars as they were readilly available at the time. Most special thing an S has is wheel alignment specs by the late and famed Prodrive guru Peter Cambridge. P.S the the glass roof is actually structural so not easy to engineer a lighter replacement.

[@Boris-xx7dw]

I’ve owned 7 Alfas from 156s and to GTVS and then the Brera for three yrs before emigrating to the states , the Brera is stunning and if I could have brought it with us I would have done , in three yrs nothing went wrong on it .

[@ymtzlgn]

I want one of these so badly. I don’t care in what condition, I would restore it. This deserves a restomod in the future!

[@abikepeddler]

A year ago, while on a cycling tour through central France, I ran across a rosso Brera parked in the town center of a small village... and it froze me in my tracks. One of the most stunning bits of design in automotive history. It is both handsome, understated and yet thrilling in it's design details and if you were told that Marcello Gandini was behind it's creation, you'd not question it for a second. When these become legal to import into the United States under our 25 year rule, look out! The prices on these, Renault Clio V6's, and the Toyota GR Yaris (Yes, I'm including the GRY here because it might just turn out to be the most desirable of all.) will just go vertical. The Alfa Romeo Brera reminds me of the Lancia Stratos (which I own). It is shit to drive but that doesn't matter because, well... just look at it. It's so beautiful, who cares about it's personality.

[@ChrissyThePoo]

I wholey disagree with you on the old videos. I really enjoyed them then and continue to enjoy them now!

[@Aesthetporium]

All the Breras have glass roof. My pre production unit from december of 2005 has it and it also has the regular cloth headlining. Sky Window was an option that just makes you have a cutout throught the headlining to see throught the glass. Non Sky Window Breras (like mine) already have all the preparation needed to install the sunroof system with the retractable blind. What many people do once their headlining fails is just cut a hole through to have more light in the cabin throught the glass roof.

[@danielemerenda9295]

I have a white Brera TI 2.4 jtd, 210hp with some mods. 220k km zero problems❤ i still love her also after ten years

[@chrisf9377]

I was able to buy a new 2.2 Brera S back when I had no other financial commitments. Not fast but great sounding engine. Only issue in 2 years was the leather gearknob gaiter turning pink. Got plenty of compliments at petrol stations. My mum has zero interest in cars and even she commented how much that she liked it.

[@dadcars]

Have you got a link to the Kylie go fund me?

[@johnmason4234]

I sold my 09 plate 2.2 S in 2013 for £9.5k and by looks of things they have held their value ok. Mine was setup by Peter Cambridge to fix the handling and it did make a big difference. At the time there was nothing on the road that looked even remotely beautiful for the money I originally paid back in 2010 for it. Agreed the rear seats are a joke - the main reason why I had to chop it in unfortunately as I couldn't get a baby seat in the back! Costs though were horrendous and had a number of major problems with the car. Gearbox failed (covered under warrenty luckily), terrible paintwork from factory - would chip soon as you looked at it, suspension issues and terrible MPG (about mid 20's IIRC). That aside - I think if you can afford to run one and keep up with the maintenance costs then it's quite a gem.

[@JJHurst]

Love my Brera S , whilst I agree with some of the comments, it's really quite an engaging drive on the A roads ...I have owned Porsche's, Audi, BMW and currently also have a Mini cooper JCW , on all but the back roads I prefer my Brera. It has been breathed on to the tune of 215 bhp and has KW V2's on it. So not standard... I'd regret selling despite it's flaws.

[@eric-wb7gj]

Yes, it's a 'traditional' Alfa. TY J! 🙏🙏

[@andyhowson1589]

I have a 2.2 S and I think it's great!! Yes, it can be a bit "Alfa" at times and yes, all of the faults you highlight in the video are relevant. But, smiles per mile, you can't really beat it....

[@marcel1463]

The sound and design is amazing.

[@GillmanStudio]

Had the closely related 159 sportwagon ... no real issues (just DMF) I loved it. The brushed Aluminium is lovely but yep it marks up too easily.

[@rawtheband9540]

Had a 159 estate and a brera . Brera was a diesel and was epic drive / comfort Hope they bring it back !

[@benfearnhead9851]

The 939 Spider benefited from the already gorgeous Giugiaro design being reworked by Pininfarina. I test drove a Brera 2.2 but found it woefully dissatisfying on acceleration and the non existent rear leg room made it equally impractical. I opted instead for a Ti spec 159 with the 1750 Tbi which had more power from a smaller unit and better acceleration as a result - plus proper back seats. I now have a 916 GTV and the back seats are actually just about useable. Still, I can’t shake the desire to own a 939 Brera or Spider - so would have to be a V6 or “hens teeth” 1750. I know people rate the 5 cylinder diesel but I’m a petrol head not a diesel head 😂

[@jamesengland7461]

James, about those earlier videos, what's not so great about them? I'd like to know what your insights are- has your kit gotten better, editing, monologue, camera techniques, etc. You're much more knowledgeable about all that than I am.

[@tomclaffey99]

you should do a top 5 or 10 cars you would buy and recommend in different price brackets and type of cars, so coupe, hothatch, sport, GT.

[@walterhankin46]

After years of watching, this one got you the subscribe 🎉

[@ganz7ful]

Thing is, people don't buy Alfas to carry people around - let them catch a bus or an Uber if they want a lift.

[@vincewatson_official]

The 3.2's on all 3 cars are fun but they struggle to get the engine round the corners....they are so front heavy, add to the heavy steering it makes for fun on the roads in the same way its thrilling to almost get stabbed. Still love them though.