Should I sell my 147 GTA? What's More Important, Engine or Fantastic Chassis?

[@pellekuipers4076]

These late 90’s early 00’s Peugeot’s al have always captured me. The 106 s16 was one of my favorite cars in Grand Turismo, this 306 looks like loads of fun without fearing for your license every time you take it out. And then there is the 406 coupé, one of the most beautiful cars Peugeot has ever made. The late 90’s really were Peugeot’s heydays if you ask me.

[@domenicoforte1799]

You can't compare a future classic and collectable to an every day car. It just doesn't have the same attraction Alfa every time

[@holeephuk]

Keep alfa man...drive it once per week and watch prices going north..

[@mr.airgun6921]

Clio 172/182 is my fav. I’m mid 40’s & I’ve had dozens of faster cars (still own 2 Imprezas) but I love my clio to drive. A better (& lowered) seat and an OMP/momo steering wheel (I prefer suede) and they’re amazing little cars. I literally look forward to driving mine every time. It’s just so eager and fun.

[@franciscoamaral4383]

The 306 was actually designed by Pininfarina and it has stood the test of time! Lovely car :-D

[@Number27]

Yes I think it’s a great design too!!

[@DaleSteel]

Lots of pugs of that era were. The best been the 406 coupe

[@itiejim]

I've owned both of these and your assessment is spot on. The chassis on the little Pug really makes every journey special, the intuitive way it drives and the excellent steering feedback for a FWD hatch is exceptional and won't be seen again I fear. You can thank skinny tyres, supple suspension and decent spring / damping for that. (All of which BMW seem to have forgotten about and Audi never knew....)

[@Number27]

Yep.. Audi defiantly never had it!! BMW not famed for steering feel either

[@steelman200870]

I think you'll miss the sound of that Busso Jack. 😍 I often get goosebumps when I hear mine on full chat... I never quite get that feeling from acing a corner! But it is whatever floats your boat... we all love different things with our cars! 👍🏻

[@Number27]

Yep good points Rob!! Take care buddy!

[@SteveDuts]

Love the channel and i’ve mentioned the GTi6 to you in the past, I’m very biased about the 306 because not only was it my first performance car when i was 22 but i now own a 1999 Astor Gray GTi6 which i’ve been fixing over the past year and i absolutely love them.

[@Number27]

Thanks for the support Steve! Have a great weekend fella!

[@resnonverba137]

I'm afraid the Alfa is a one-trick pony for me. The 306 is a well-rounded driver's car and a lot of fun.

[@salvofarnia8046]

A damn good trick too.

[@Negativvv]

The only trick that matters, if you've driven a well set up Busso powered car you'd understand.

[@resnonverba137]

@@Negativvv Clearly not by your own comment.

[@bluerineimb1148]

You must be joking a borring Peugeot better then a V6 Alfa that Alfa engine is has close has you will get to a Ferrari engine I've had two Alfa's with that engine the was a 75 it wauld do 105 in 3rd & go on to 150 & the sound In high rev was wonderful

[@resnonverba137]

@@bluerineimb1148 Thank you for again proving the validity of my comment :)

[@SubboyGTR]

I own a Lotus and I would normally always say the chassis over the engine- but the Alfa engine is soo sublime!

[@rhettcorcoran2879]

I can see the attraction of the Pug, but I would keep the Alfa, it is such a special car.

[@Number27]

Thanks Rhett... Alfa is more special !

[@nigelgoldsworthy354]

Listening to you there’s only one choice. The Peugeot. I’d rather have a car with better handling and less power. You can have more fun in the twisties

[@salvofarnia8046]

The pug does not handle better, the alfa has multi link suspension, this v6 has been spoilt by fitting polybushes, they just dont work on alfas full stop.

[@salvofarnia8046]

I had all the french cars and alfas, both handle great but a well sorted alfa leaves the french car way behind.

[@PeaceBeTheJourney.]

@@salvofarnia8046 and a well sorted peugeot leaves the italian car behind

[@kayerickatson4814]

The Alfa is totally mad, therefore keep the Alfa!

[@ryanmccormick2150]

I've always loved the GTI6 , I think they have aged well! I'd go for the pug Jack they are great cars and easy to work on ..... also cheap parts bud 👍

[@bluerineimb1148]

Peugeot is worthless Alfa is a classic I bet there is thousands of Peugeot's around how many of them Alfa's do you see classic, Peugeot mass production scrap

[@BibaBananaZ]

@@bluerineimb1148 Peugeot GTi’s made before 2003 are pretty rare these days.

[@bluerineimb1148]

@@BibaBananaZ it's still just a small Peugeot if I was going to have another one I'd be looking for a 505 gti

[@BibaBananaZ]

@@bluerineimb1148 I don’t think it’s “just” a small Peugeot. In it’s time it was a really fast hot hatch and was one of the best handling cars you could buy, even though it is a FWD car. It was up there for the benchmark for c-segment hot hatches (just like the 106 in the a-segment). Comparing it to a car that not only is several years newer with almost 100hp more, but also cost almost double the price from the factory is pretty unfair.

[@bluerineimb1148]

@@BibaBananaZ you have a good point there. I had a mi16 just dident rate it but yeah that's a good point you made

[@khalidacosta7133]

The 306 does NOT have a torsion beam. Let's repeat that again. THE 306 DOES NOT HAVE A TORSION BEAM. It has independent torsion bars, similar to those used on F1 cars nowadays.

[@Graham_Langley]

Trailing arms with torsion bar springs and an anti-roll bar, mounted on a bushes that gave some rear-end steering.

[@Titaniumparts]

That's a mint 306. I owned one for 16 years, virtually from new, but it was getting very tired and harder to maintain, so I replaced with a Leon FR. But the Pug remains dear in my memory. It was such a great driver's car, an absolute go-kart with fantastic handling and steering feedback (old-school hydraulic, not electric remoteness). Watched this video with misty-eyed nostalgia.

[@sainta2667]

It's the engine Jack - The busso is just too heavy for the front wheel drive chassis of the 147, it's well known by Alfa lovers in Europe

[@Jester-Riddle]

Jack, a man with a Ferrari and a Lotus trying to convince us that he would go for the less 'flashy' car ... 🤣

[@presstodelete1165]

Any vehicle becomes fun when the quality of the handling reaches it's limitations at about the same time as the engine. Thats why low powered vehicles can be just as much fun as high power ones.

[@coopers4491]

Put the alfa engine into the peugeot!!!! JOB DONE ......STAY SAFE 🔧🔧🔧🔧👍👍👍👍

[@coltr7561]

doesnt work. It would be very bad. If you need better , take 2 litre Alfa, it nails that Peugeot anytime

[@DouweBuruma]

@@coltr7561 exactly.

[@DalekBuilder]

After watching this video I have come to the conclusion that the Alfa V6 has to be one of the sweetest sounding engines ever made. I will admit I love a sweet handling car & my current plaything is all about handling but the sound of that V6 in the Alfa is addictive. Yes fun handling can made you smile in the right places where that engine sound can make you smile anytime and anywhere. If it wasn't for the Alfa V6 sound it wouldn't even be a question that needed asking. The Alfa with that engine is far more than its sum of parts and punches well above its weight.

[@Number27]

Totally agree Paul!! Thanks for watching and your comments

[@garrytalbot3456]

I had a 306 Gti6 brand new in 1997 R366WOO. It’s handling and ability in the real world made it quicker than lots of cars that were faster in a straight line. The Alfa I always thought was unusual for them in that it had little finesse but relied on the engine to get it down the road. The 306 is a car I’d own again ,a superb handling car in all respects.

[@Number27]

Agree.. very good car that one! Thanks for watching Garry!

[@TheSeeka]

Everyone I know who has sold a 147 GTA has regretted it! 😉🍀🇮🇹

[@th3b0untyhunter]

There's a cliche that the 2 happiest days in an Alfa ownership are the day you buy it and the day you sell it. It was def the case for me.

[@h533feg]

@@th3b0untyhunter also applies to Landrovers, Lotus and yachts 😉

[@seba35]

Everyone who had a Busso tho I had a 166 2.5 and 3.2, 2 years and so had passed and I still think about what cars they are and what an engine, god. I regret that I sold them

[@asimmalik6378]

I was faced with almost the same decision but from a GTV V6. Couldn't decide so I just had both 😊. Having said that, it's pretty much always the keys to the GTi6 I'm drawn towards for a fun drive. Get that engine revved out and use the close ratio gearbox to keep it in the power band, and it's plenty quick enough.

[@andrewgurney6019]

I keep expecting Harry Metcalfe to come roaring into your rear view mirror during the test drives!!

[@CharlieBeveridge]

Haha, yep, that road seems to be only decent road in the south of England to test cars on !

[@andrewnichols1023]

I’ve driven a gta with 275 bhp had a q2 diff and good tyres, the torque steer was minimal. Much faster and better sounding than the 306. It has everything from full leather bucket seats, stitched leather in the doors, to independent climate control. The 306 is very basic compared. The 306 chassis is better set up for the power it has, but being a powerful 3.2 v6 in a small hatch, that’s what makes it special. Plus it’s a Busso v6 probably the best v6 ever made.

[@h533feg]

For handling you now have the Elise. Keep the Alfa for that engine, style and passion. Another great video, thanks Jack.

[@Number27]

Funnily enough was just thinking if I sell the Alfa I could daily the Elise for while..

[@h533feg]

@@Number27 You're a brave man if you do that. I've got an S2 Exige and, as wonderful as it is (and it really is), it's not a daily driver. Make great video content though!! ;-)

[@GhostyDog]

That suspension setup is the Alfa’s Achilles heel, had the same coilovers on mine, fantastic on track, terrible everywhere else.

[@focus3303]

Jack keep the Alfa 🙂👍

[@dw5150dw]

Both great cars ,went round mira in gti6 when they were new at Peugeot club day flat out ,always fancied owning both ,you've great taste in motors m8

[@husky-xu2ow]

I think you have made your mind up already 👍👍

[@marksmith3469]

Driven gti6 when brand new used to work as a valeter at a Peugeot dealership in 1997

[@watchmrcontent]

Ooooh, it's a long time since I bid farewell to my 306 fleet, your video describes quite why I fell in love. We started with a sensible-ish diesel, the DTurbo (which was a hoot when the turbo spooled up mid-rev range), then went for a Roadster (aka cabriolet with factory hardtop for the winter) with that 2.0 petrol engine, albeit not so tuned up, and then a black Rallye (aka GTI6 with wind up windows, no aircon or sunroof). That last car was just lovely, if a tad sweaty in the summer

[@Number27]

Would love a rally!!

[@watchmrcontent]

@@Number27 After watching the video, I did take a peek on Ebay and there's an unmolested red one for sale....£5k, but there aren't any more out there!

[@Faithinthedock]

I had two new 306's (D-Turbo's, one early and one later HDi) and for cars I didn't own they were great. Still managed to get one to only average 23mpg on the M25 / M4 to Bristol. (Pre speed cameras). But the 306 is still fairly ordinary compared to the alfa and the petrol 306 engine needs working hard to get the car moving, so I doubt the mpg will be that dramatically different day to day. I know a change is always tempting but I think the 306 really isn't special enough to keep the interest for too long.

[@Number27]

Let’s see how it pans out.. but thanks for your thoughts buddy!!

[@eze8970]

You'll never get tired of the Alfa engine, the Peugeot chassis wont make EVERY drive as good/better as the Alfa.

[@philthewriter]

Would take handling over engine note any day.

[@philthewriter]

Alfa does sound amazing though, lol

[@coltr7561]

@@philthewriter why you need to drive pumpy roads, find better roads, its much easier than driving shit roads.

[@AdamDUrso]

@@coltr7561 easier said than done in a daily!

[@AdamDUrso]

The pug engine is still a nice thing though.

[@HappyDaysNI]

I know what you mean about the Alfa suspension. I put 7 sumps in a 156 about 20 years ago. It just bottomed out all the time. A sump guard was fitted, but it wore that out too! But a 306? Noooooooooooooo! Bland bland bland!

[@jody6183]

Got to love Peugeot's lift off oversteer 🤪👍🏻

[@slider2]

Try an integra type r - nails both!

[@czu1]

Type r much better for track, high rev engine, stock lsd, brilliant gearbox but I did not like steering feel. GTA after few mods is perfect for street and you don't need to drive like crazy to enjoy it.

[@baheh1801]

I wrote the same thing about a dc2 then read the comments and found this . You said it first.

[@hi2lenduffy837]

Plus red recaros

[@bradmuller903]

Oh please, FFS!

[@salvofarnia8046]

Sure it does

[@stuartsmith5308]

The pug doen't look special enough on the inside or the outside. Even it might be the better car to drive. The Alfa wins, with great look, great interior, great performance and great noise, only lacking in suspension. Maybe an aftermarket tuning company can transform her to make it a great drivers car. Try AutoLusso 147 suspension kit for 900 pounds.

[@justacomment1657]

The suspension is actually pretty God on the cars. At least on 156 if it is in shape (I run eibach pro kit and & HR 30mm drop with decent shocks) as both cars share the same suspension I'd be surprised if the 147 is worse. Maybe the chassis is softer . there are pretty good braces for those cars.. I don't know the brand, but mine where white and realy sturdy... It used 4 point to stiffen the front subframe. Rear was even more extreme if I recall correctly... Wou will notice those A LOT If something is wrong with the suspension look at the rear trailing arms.... If those are f... Things get ah.... Less nice.... And if some dude decides to handfist some polystuff in there... You would mess up the suspension flex... And things will be.... Ahh.... Not nice... If in shape 156 and 147 handle well (driven 1.9 & 2,4 jtdm as well as a 2.5v6) maybe a tad front heavy...and a little soft without chassis brace...

[@matthewchannel9981]

Did you bump in to Harry Metcalfe driving down that road?

[@Number27]

Not yet!

[@marklee7545]

@@Number27 I thought that road was familiar, Jack! Keep the Alfa. You’ve then got a well-balanced collection: Alfa for that wonderful engine, the 308 for the style and the Elise for the chassis. I’d leave the Pug.

[@antking8847]

chassis - every time. Especially on UK roads

[@2702simmo]

Handlings key. The Pug it would be for me especially if it releases a few quid for you

[@malcolmmorton989]

Have to say - if I was considering a 306 , then the convertible is drop dead gorgeous

[@dank8489]

With the dawn of all electric vehicles upon us I really do think that in 10 years time these two cars will be massively sought after and their values will explode. Keep both if you can but if I had to choose one it would be the Alfa. The Peugeot, as great a car as it is, is the more sensible choice but who wants sensible!?

[@JohnDoe-yw4ex]

Friendly advice.. Just don't sell the Alfa!!! You will thank me later Jack😎

[@XTREMEFlightSimPROD]

Just discovered your channel and I have to say that I love this video. As a French Peugeot Fan I would definitely take the 306, I had the chance to test one and, wow, the chassis is incredible. Perfect for curvy roads! Cheers from France !

[@Number27]

Great to have a new viewer and from France too!! Merci mon ami!

[@b6eunos]

Chassis all day long. Always loved the 306 GTI6 and Rallye.

[@polygamous1]

306 all the way here too mate, had a 205 n was driving the company's 306 diesel n that also handled like a dream for an everyday cheap runner, why I always loved the Elan way above the E type or to be honest anything else, the fun of driving is a great handling car round twisting country lanes not fast on a strait road

[@sholehan]

Absolutely identical to my old GTi-6! Diablo Red, T916 KRH. Spectacular car that, I loved it.

[@iDayno]

How about a GTV V6? My old twinspark was probably the best handling car I've owned so far but lacking a bit power wise so could be a good compromise and means you still get the lovely busso :-)

[@jazzyj8850]

Have yo agree, had 2 of them and they put the 147 to shame, they feel so much more planted and the engine note is slightly more raw

[@zrtmotorsportuae3087]

Recently drove a 147GTA and have to agree. Preferred my 916 GTV 3.0v6. Im sure a timing belt change is less than £1,000 these days.

[@paulw5822]

I've not driven a GTA, but I know why! For me the 306 Rallye (poor spec GTi-6) was my favourite handling fwd car of the '90's, better than 205 GTi & Corrado.. Find a Rallye, rarer and less elctrics to go wrong!

[@matthewbell1968]

Chassis, chassis and then the chassis Jack 👍👍 Great video as ever.

[@Number27]

Thanks Matthew!

[@salvofarnia8046]

French cars make the most of basic suspension set up, very very good but the when the limit comesnit comes with a snap. The Alfws multi link is complex but you get enough warning at the limit, thats the differance. Unless its spoilt with plastic polybushes.

[@global_nomad.]

a very fair and objective comparison...definate heart and mind debate

[@Number27]

Thanks chap!! Enjoy the coming weekend!

[@Pabster007]

The Alfa looks and sounds great. Which of the two would you most want to develop on the channel? Maybe you need a car that has both a great engine and sweet handling! 😊

[@byronmills5952]

The 306 is one of the most wonderfully handling and driving hatches of all time - what is tragic is that Peugeot just didn't bother following it up properly, took their eye completely of the ball during the noughties and have left a complete generation of people not knowing of how capable these cars are - and have had to play catch up ever since. You should get your hands on a Gti-6 with the Lynx Supercharging conversion and give it a try.

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

Right. In a big hot hatch test of EVO it left all the others behind.

[@Number27]

Yep, really odd how they just dropped hot hatches for years! And what they did have was dreadful like the 206 GTI!

[@wobbler6372]

I Agree with you comment . I'm now a old bloke and I still remember how good the 306 was . Time moves forward but that 306 in it time was sweet

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

I even have this test: EVO June 2000 1. 306GTI 2. 106GTI 3. Saxo VTS 4. Clio 172 5. Fiesta 6. Seat Leon

[@mrrocknroll84]

I used to have a gti 6. The gears are so well calculated. If you replace the air filter enclosure with a pod, it will give you that extra top end response that it needs, with a slight loss at the bottom. It's a fantastic car. Hey, nothing is stopping you from putting a supercharger on it. Also, some nice semi slick tyres...and it's a brilliant driving machine.

[@Number27]

Thanks Ivan.. interesting ideas!!

[@kevinjekyll1521]

Given a choice, an Alfa or Peugeot, to my mind there is no question. Who drives a car, have some fun, park up, walk away from that car, and look back fondly to admire its looks. Passion over logic moves me every time.

[@ConquerDriving]

I'm guessing your uni mate is Chris Harris?

[@Number27]

Good guess

[@matthewdavies4358]

You need to get him on the show!

[@lazgrillo6982]

I hope it is Chris Harris and not the self styled encyclopedia Hub Gut.

[@markwalton8644]

Chassis every time for me. I had a 306 Dturbo, this was slightly lowered and handled like a Go kart. In the dry was awsome, in the wet quite a handful, lift off oversteer on a plate. I've driven a 156 2.5V6 and the 3.0gtv and both were less fun to drive, but the sound and interior was lovely. A stage2 PUG1OFF 306 GTi would be a really nice balance between chassis and power!!

[@jasonk7072]

I fancied a 306 GTi6 about 7 or 8 years ago and could not find a nice one for love nor money. Even ropey ones were thin on the ground so if you find one like this one in your film I wouldn't hang around.

[@Number27]

Yep lots of crappy ones around for sure! Thanks for watching

[@576103]

The chassis on your Alfa has been ‘improved’ with boy-racer aftermarket suspension, which is causing you all the grief you constantly moan about-and with good reason I suspect! I have a feeling that fitting slightly softer springs, a compromise between the stock rating and the ones you have now, will transform that car. If the suspension worked as it should, it would be no contest, true? That’s an experiment worth undertaking for its own sake, plus it would serve as great fodder for a video or three….

[@rainerzitterbart2001]

Same thought.....👍🏻

[@pplaciii]

No sure, what do you mean on doesn't work on bumps. But the 156/147 had one of the best FWD suspension (front: double wishbone, rear: McPherson) setup. Still very good today's standards. Try the 147 with a smaller, lighter engine. With 1.6 petrol is unbelievably agile, responsive. The heavy V6 ruins the balance.

[@BrKnOblivion]

Got one, also an S16, they are wonderful cars. Precise and fun.

[@tonyb1223]

Had an S16 in blue, only got rid due to having no room for it :( had 72k on the clock (be around 8ish years back now), becoming a rare car, wish I had kept her :(

[@BrKnOblivion]

@@tonyb1223 Yeah had one of them years ago. Loved the blue they used for it too. Current one is the flat red, but it's getting a respray to Soul Red later in the year ;)

[@BM_PAZ]

As an ex Gti-6 owner, I feel you'll really regret selling the Alfa quite quickly but that's just my opinion.

[@Number27]

Interesting.. so you weren’t happy with your Peugeot?

[@BM_PAZ]

@@Number27 I'm not criticising the Pug, it does handle well and the engine is well balanced with the chassis but it just didn't suit what I like in a car. I may have an unusual approach to cars but I like flaws and quirks and a chassis that you have to do battle with...I just find it more appealing. Couple that with the experience of great sounds and great looks then that makes the Alfa a winner for me. No car is without it's frustrations though.

[@BM_PAZ]

@@Number27 If you do go for the 306 though, I can't stress enough the importance of ensuring the cambelt has been recently replaced and the engine isn't tapping.

[@Keroppikun]

The 2.0 liter twin spark handles oodles better, same fir the 156. Too much engine weight on the front is just too much for the chassis. Try a TS if you can. But don’t sell the Busso- at least until a nice profit can be realized.

[@Number27]

Yes I can imagine that the weight is the main issue!! Thanks for watching!

[@januszkertynski1048]

It looks that you made a decission :). If the cost is an issue and you need the car as daily (or-semi daily) Pug is a good choice. Otherwise better wait for some different insiration and keep Alfa for a while. BTW I have healthy Alfa GT 3.2V6 stock+Q2. GT's suspension is better than GTA's (stock vs. stock) but still you need to avoid bumpy roads with it. What Greek folks are squizeeng from GTs is amazing. This is 1st yt channel I ever subscribed - stay on the track Man!

[@Number27]

So good to hear this was you first sub, thank you and enjoy your Alfa!!

[@larrychamel]

Here's my opinion Jack... back in 1988 I had an 88 Corvette Convertible and every Mustang 5.0 wanted to Race me! In a straight line the 5.0 LX was very light and very fast but... if there was a curve in the road, you were off the road. The Vette had Speed and Phenomenal handling! So I say it depends on the Types of Roads you prefer to Drive on. If you like curvy roads then handling is more important. If you like long, leisurely drives on the Autobahn... Power all day long. Stay Safe and Healthy my friend and all the rest will sort itself out! ❤🙏❤

[@chedhead3278]

Cheers Jack, tough choice. 306 with the 190 odd hp from a pug1off engine tickle and money left over for track days for me. Don't recommend watching the 'Camber and Combustion' videos, a very bad influence. :)

[@Michael_Lorenson]

I once faced a choice like this, except the difference in chassis behavior was not so stark. In the end, I could not abide the 4cyl engine. I'm glad I went through that decision process, because it revealed my true priorities. The engine is the heart of the car, and is my first consideration. Doesn't mean the rest of the car is unimportant, but it has to be mighty good to overcome an uninspiring engine.

[@Number27]

Interesting point, thanks Michael!

[@a5cgb]

90% of the time for most of us handling isn't an issue but the sound always is!

[@salvofarnia8046]

Exactly

[@salvofarnia8046]

Peter cambridge would sort the alfas handling isfues, ex prodrive guy who. Did the Brera for Uk roags

[@Number27]

Interesting way of looking at it!!

[@markonmotoring]

A car with a Busso V6 will always sound special and look special under the bonnet. It will always feel special but it is a lot of power through the front wheels. The cost of that belt service too and the problems are only going to keep coming with age. That pug makes a compelling package and is starting to slowly gain the modern classic status it deserves and I think the fun Vs stress of ownership ratio would have you reaching for the keys. Also that stretch of road looks very much like a road used by another established KZbinr that I watch.

[@Number27]

Yes share on the Busso, such a great engine!! Thanks for watching Mark!

[@andrewfwallace4582]

Jacks content is always brillaint to watch, I would always go for the handling, I have owned a lot of "sporty" Peugeots, from 106 xsi, 106 GTI, 406 Coupe, 205 GTI, 306 Cabriolet, only Alfa I had was a Sprint Veloce, Peugeot is my choice, especially as you can use the available handling more than the power on UK A & B roads, Renault 19 16v Chamade anyone? Your a star Jack, love your content

[@Number27]

Thanks Andrew, enjoy the last bit of the weekend buddy!!

[@tonyb1223]

I went from a Renault 19 16v to a 306 GTi-6, the 19 was another car with an excellent chassis, the engine wasn't very torquey though (119lbft peak) so you had to work it hard. Remember going to the Peugeot dealer and test driving a GTi-6 in 97, I was sold after the first minute of driving it, shame that I only had her for 2.5hrs before an uninsured/disqualified driver ran a red light and squashed the front end... they rebuilt it of course, cost about 9k to do so, was never the same after that though, so I part ex'd for a phase 2 9 months later. P616MRJ was my first one, R150YVM the 2nd, that one is still going strong 😁

[@robsawalker]

Alfa all the way! I had a 2 litre 147 and thought the handling was fantastic when the suspension was fresh. Not sure if the heavy V6 affects it hugely or not

[@DouweBuruma]

I agree with you.

[@terryturner4116]

You're correct, mine leaves people stunned how fast it just out turns them, in my experience cars that people rave about for handling always get left hanging by my little Alfa.

[@jazzyj8850]

I've had the pleasure of owning both of these. Both very different as you point out. The steering on that Alfa is just way too quick and really exposes the chassis but dam it sounds good

[@Number27]

I like the quickness.. it’s just the chassis can’t quite cope

[@jazzyj8850]

@@Number27 same! It was just the effect on the chasis I didn't like

[@Fioravanti.80]

Spot on analysis of the GTA. Loved the engine in mine, as I loved the way it looked (mine was pearl white with turbine wheels). It also had Q2 Diff, a strut brace to stiffen the front end, koni dampers and an exhaust note to die for. Yet, I sold it after 12 months because I could not get over how the engine simply overpowered the noodle like chassis that could not cope with 260bhp running through the front wheels. I actually preferred to drive an earlier 155 twin spark which also had front wheel drive chassis, but which was so much better sorted.

[@Number27]

Interesting to hear! Thanks Corran

[@Fioravanti.80]

@@Number27 Thanks, by the way, is this the same road as the one Harry Metcalfe uses for his reviews?

[@Jester-Riddle]

Drove an older 306 for a year or so as a loaned 'runabout' after owning a 2.5i V6 car (with great engine sounds !) and was so frustrated and contemptuous of the Peugeot at first ... However, after a while, it impressed me from a practical driving perspective and it was just a 'no-nonsense' car to use. There was no 'flashiness', but it just got the job done without any particular foibles ... except, of course, sitting so low on long drives ... (but I even got used to that). Sitting so low increases the perception of speed, so that would enhance the 'fun' of driving, even if not the actual time of arrival ! I had grown up with friends always bragging about Alfa's, but the little Peugeot earned respect. (Mind you, my perception is very coloured by the fact that I didn't have to pay the Garage Bills !!! 😂 )

[@alexandrestarinsky1055]

There both great cars, I would be much happy with either of the two actually.

[@steffydog]

Always a great video, thank you. That 306 looks in great condition. The Alfa sounds amazing, not sure I could live with her though. Keep well #27

[@Number27]

Thank you buddy, and to you too!!

[@lazgrillo6982]

Suspension set up is both a science and an art. Peugeot had some of the best development engineers in that department at that time. Why would anyone think that they can improve on the ride & handling compromise from the original just by adding some bolt-ons. Sure the Alfa wouldn't have been one of the best but at least it would have been integrated. It would be interesting to see Fredo up against a standard version. You can have that idea on me Jack.

[@matthewdavies4358]

Used to have a GTI-6 in that same colour about 17 years ago! Great car and miss it - lift off oversteer on greasy roundabouts!

[@sholehan]

Another couple of points worth noting - the 306 came out right at the beginning of the 90s, so it's an old design! Also the Gti-6 put out 167bhp, which was beaten a lot by the later gen of hot hatches but everything else that came after used variable valve timing (toyota, Honda etc) or was turbocharged. 170bhp from 2 litres is actually quite a high specific output for a road car with fixed valve timing, any more and the low down driveabilty would really suffer.

[@jasoncooke1999]

Common on admit it , you want the gti6. I have a mint red 306 rallye, the lightened version of the gti6, try that and you’ll want one !

[@Number27]

I kind of do want one.. but not sure if I want it enough!! They are great cars! Rally also but too much money!

[@michaelpegasiou4531]

Before I watch this,for me it’s the chassis first.If you go Karting the engine is crap but the fun is the chassis and it’s the same with road cars but of course you want both.Happy Easter 🐣

[@Number27]

You’ll see I agree!! Take care Michael!

[@michaelpegasiou4531]

@@Number27 You know what you’re talking about,now if you get one might I suggest Blaze Yellow for the colour,best colour in my opinion 😉

[@lucaalux]

The GTA is a unique hatch, don't seell it! For the suspension compartment, 147 have the double wishbone at the front and Mc pherson in the rear, in the video probably i don't catch the right explanation. But man, with quaife lsd the Alfa become a monster on road

[@thedecliningcyclist3321]

As an ex serial gti owner I don’t really miss my Gti6. Good car and the fastest of the bunch by some distance, but the pug I really miss is my 3 door 309gti. At the end of the day it’s whatever car puts a smile on your face and makes your heart sing every time you turn the key ..... if the Alfa doesn’t do that it’s time for a change.

[@Number27]

Ummm... Maybe I should look at other options too!

[@malcolmhardwick4258]

Alfa does looks so beautiful !

[@Number27]

I agree!! Thanks for watching Malcolm

[@bakedbeanzontoast9078]

Jack, maybe not sell your Alfa but probably give it a wash though!!!!, I'd have the Alfa allday long over the Pug, great review. 👍👍🇬🇧

[@Number27]

Wash video coming soon!! It’s sooooo dirty

[@martintoet4583]

Jack, contact Autodelta, enlarge the engine to 3.7 and let them finance half of it because your channel is getting really popular. You won’t recognize your car anymore, your then in another league. I have the KW coil overs and the car behaves really well. Keep up your awesome work.

[@Number27]

Thanks buddy.. I have the Eibach Pro Street which are basically Rebranded KW V1s... interesting to hear that you like yours!

[@michaelarchangel1163]

I have a Phase 2 306, and have owned it from new, almost 24 years ago. It's only a lightly tuned turbo diesel model, but you'd love the handling. It has H&R coilovers, a lowered back axle with Bilsteins, Vibra Technics engine mounts and a full polybush suspension kit. Very vibey until over 2,000 RPM but that doesn't bother me. You could really have some great fun if you did the same mods and also had someone like Lynx Engineering do a full Carillo engine job on your car, together with a centrifugal supercharger. That'd give you 400 BHP and make the Alfa seem as though it's going backwards.

[@Number27]

Sounds like a really fun car Michael!! Thanks for watching buddy!

[@duckbob100]

the pug doesn't have a torsion beam, it has trailing arms with torsion bars as springs. Similar sounding set up but very different in operation

[@Number27]

Yes you’re right, my mistake!’

[@alancsalt]

Torque steer - any FWD with more than 250 horses?

[@janstaes2172]

the french are very good with suspension set up

[@simonh870]

The Alfa has double wishbones at the front not struts. They are a mixed blessing, as whilst wheel geometry os kept more stable and upright on smooth surfaces they reduce the wheel travel, which means a compromises elsewhere.

[@trustgtr33]

owned a Citroen Zx 2dr 2.0 16v in the mid 90s a sister car with the 306, probably one of the best handling car of its time..

[@Number27]

Many other have mentioned the ZX! Must try one. Thanks for watching!

[@kevinoakes1171]

Good comparison Jack, and I get your dilemma. I drove loads of those 306’s back in the day and can honestly testify that they were fantastic fun to drive. Even the D Turbo, diesels were brilliant. Your problem is that Alfa’s get under your skin. Compare that Peugeot to any other hot hatch of the same period and you would choose it every time. Fact is, your Alfa has clouded your judgement because Alfa’s form a bond like no other car. I speak from experience.

[@Number27]

Thanks Kevin.. I know why you mean about Alfa’s!!

[@FelixIsMyName]

When I was in 6th form in the 90's , I really lusted after the 306. With your choice Jack, I would pick the Alfa as it's just one of those cars when you get it all working together perfectly, it is utterly sublime. That's said , I would take that Alfa engine and buy a Stratos kitcar and use the Alfa engine in that!

[@Number27]

Yes, I’d love a good Stratos replica!! Thanks for watching Dan!

[@nordicxplore]

Keep the Alfa, drive with a smile

[@alexdebono4087]

Reviewing the handling capabilities of an Alfa Romeo 147 on a bumpy country road is like reviewing a formula 1 car on a rally stage. The Alfa Romeo 147 was designed for smooth tarmac circuit racing with it's sophisticated double wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension. The Peugeot on the other hand is the complete opposite to the Alfa Romeo, it's rear independent trailing arm torsion beam suspension is ideal for uneven bumpy surfaces offering more wheel to road contact.

[@Landshark928]

It all depends on the purpose. If it 's a daily driver I would go for engine over chassis, for a weekendtoy the other way round.

[@Miguel_Sanchez69]

I'm interested to see what a brand new KW V3 would do with the Alfa... maybe I would ask Davide Cironi if he knows how to tune up the Alfas suspension. I would love to see a colab between you guys.

[@Number27]

I have V1s... so t think V3s would be a big improvement and likely to stiffer!

[@Miguel_Sanchez69]

@@Number27 alright, thanks I didn't know! I hope you saw Davide Cironis take on the GTA. They had a blast of a build with that LSD, Ferrari 430 intake and supersprint exhaust... just awesome!

[@grayfool]

I've never driven the Alfa but have tried a couple of Pugs. They were great fun. The chassis is the thing for me but I like a big heavy saloon too. You've tried the Alfa so why not have a go at the Peugeot? If you're anything like me, you'll want something else in a few months anyway. My wife gets a car she likes and keeps it for years, I like to play with all sorts of different things. Have fun.

[@Number27]

Yes I also like variety!!! Have a great weekend!!

[@fabiogiglio6494]

the great Henry Ford said, when an 🇮🇹Alfa Romeo🇮🇹 passes I take off my hat....Fantastic sound / Fantastic line/ Fantastic chassis / Fantastic engine / FANTASTIC STORY.there is no comparison, ALFA ROMEO ❤️147♥️🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹

[@Number27]

Very true, he did indeed say this! Tanti saluti Fabio!!

[@fabiogiglio6494]

@@Number27 Alfa Romeo has always been awarded in the world (think that Ford itself wanted to buy it in the 1980s) if you know a little history of the Alfa brand, unfortunately it has had the misfortune of being under the control of Italian politics MAFIOSA. this penalized its growth after the 1960s. Alfa is the mother of Ferrari / Volkswagen / F1, thinks Alfa built the engines of military aircraft / tanks / ship engines and so much more. unfortunately for her, Alfa has always been associated with Mussolini's fascism (that Mussolini himself ordered Alfa that every single bolt should be made in Italy) the rest is history. after the killing of Mussolini after twenty years the alpha was managed by the purely communist and corrupt Fiat ..... today more than yesterday the alpha is constantly obscured by the Italian politicians mainly for these historical reasons. both in the world of motors and elsewhere in Italy we have a plague that for the god of money destroys Italian craftsmanship like alpha itself. we call ourselves democrats (but we are not) the Vatican / Politics is the mafia in all its magnificence, out in the streets there is the armed wing of the mafia .... I wanted to tell you a little bit of Italian history this is also the reason why Alfa Romeo has not become the most powerful brand in the world, above Ferrari itself. I write with the translator, I hope it is readable 😉. many greetings from Sicily.

[@philipgligorov5848]

@@fabiogiglio6494 I am sick of people like you mentioning the most charitable institution in the world, corresponding it with bad politics.

[@fabiogiglio6494]

@@philipgligorov5848 are you sick of what? I'm Italian, Sicilian to be exact .. so shut up about arguments that you disown, shut up about the reality that exists in Italy ... what you call CHARITABLE (if you are referring to immigration) here we call it human trafficking ..... here Italian politics helps thieves and billionaires / mafia and corrupt, but 80% of the population works 70 hours a week for € 600 / € 700 with rents of € 400, bills of at least € 150 and the shopping, if you like, you certainly don't fill your fridge .... that Italy is beautiful OK you eat well OK as a FANTASTIC tourist but if you live in Italy armed with patience because here the taxes are more than the earnings. so shut up on topics you don't know ....