The Alfa Romeo 156 is an Exquisite Saloon Car with a Glorious V6 Soundtrack

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Twin-Cam

Twin-Cam

Күн бұрын

Пікірлер: 186
@philiprodney7884
@philiprodney7884 3 жыл бұрын
I would agree that the 156 is one of the most beautiful saloons of the last 30 years. I had a Lusso 2.5 V6 in double red.
@Strike86
@Strike86 3 жыл бұрын
One of the very best cars of the 1990s. Amazing style, gorgeous interior, fine handling and firecracker engines under every bonnet. Brilliant video Ed.
@michakwiecien1133
@michakwiecien1133 3 жыл бұрын
Great review as always! I’ve always found myself being drawn to Alfa Romeos and a V6-powered 156 is a car that I’d absolutely love to own. The design of it is phenomenal with the pre-facelift cars aging like fine wine and the facelift examples still looking very modern. Couple that with a Busso and a manual gearbox and it makes for a car that’s very hard to feel indifferent about.
@ironingbored
@ironingbored 3 жыл бұрын
Back in 2006,as a 22 year old I bought a 3 year old, 30k mile 156 1.6 Twin Spark for about £7k. The depreciation had been huge, allowing me to afford one. It was my second ever car. I owned it for 3 years and 40k miles. Back then, young lads didn't drive fancy looking saloons - my contemporaries drove 206 Quicksilvers and other small hatches. I drove it extremely hard everywhere, it wasn't particularly fast but I regularly topped it out at 126MPH. I loved it and it was actually reliable! Eibach lowering springs, uprated brakes and a Pipercross Viper induction kit. I eventually sold it to one of my father's colleagues, who happened to be a serving Regimental Sergeant Major in the SAS (yes, really) who had seen my for sale advert posted on the noticeboard in my dad's careers office. I drove the car to his house, he liked it, bought it and then drove me the 20 miles home to my town. We had a fascinating conversation on the way home and he definitely imparted some sage advice on what was then a young lad. Anyway, yeah the 156 was and is a great, characterful car. Nice vid!
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks mate, it’s lovely to hear stories like that ☺️
@1stMemberEver
@1stMemberEver 2 жыл бұрын
That 2.5 V6 was really thirsty. Still missing those Alfa 2.5 and 3.0 V6 engines.
@fhwolthuis
@fhwolthuis 3 жыл бұрын
Great review! I totally agree with you on the 156. I remember when it was launched, as a poor student I got to make a test drive in a 1.6 Twin Spark and even with that engine it made such an impression on me, accelerating onto the motorway with 7000 rpm, the razor sharp and quick steering! I still want one too 🍀❤️
@zbg6415
@zbg6415 Жыл бұрын
I'm 20 years old and currently own and drive one - some friends call me ballsy whilst others insane - all I know is that it changed my life, literally. I wake up with more motivation for school or university as I get to drive that! Girls love it too!
@dimitrisg.4504
@dimitrisg.4504 3 жыл бұрын
You 're right! I'm never gonna change my 2003/156...for no reason! 18 years and still fabulous and safe!
@jonntischnabel
@jonntischnabel 2 жыл бұрын
The 155, 156 and 159 are all beautiful in their own way. The front end of the 159 is quite possibly the nicest of any car
@TheOracle65
@TheOracle65 3 жыл бұрын
Great review Edd. I had a 2.0 TwinSpark which was one of the very first in country as a company car (R-reg), which I ordered as soon as I saw it in magazine when it was announced at the Frankfurt motor show. Such an amazing car to drive, and look at. Your review of the exterior design was spot-on! It also drew a lot of admiring attention wherever I parked it up especially in the early days. I had it 3 years and put 137k miles on it. It was very reliable and It only broke down once in 3 years. Even after 3 years I still looked back at it when I parked up. The only fly in ointment was the servicing at FIAT garages, which was not a great experience. Been an Alfa fan since I can remember and currently own a Giulia Veloce,.
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
By popular demand, I have now set up a Patreon page! If you enjoy my videos, then please do consider supporting Twin-Cam with a donation. www.patreon.com/twincam Correction: I meant V6 cars had six-speeds, not just the GTA.
@RichieRouge206
@RichieRouge206 3 жыл бұрын
My friend is a 156 nut, they are stunning cars. He has recently bought a very low mileage immaculate 2.5 V6 Lusso in red. Zero rot etc. Great video dude.
@Panos-xo9rc
@Panos-xo9rc 3 жыл бұрын
The spoiler ruins the lines of the car for me,which were PERFECT without it.
@Liban46227
@Liban46227 2 жыл бұрын
Also that ugly wheels
@TassieLorenzo
@TassieLorenzo 2 жыл бұрын
I think both the spoiler and wheels are OEM Alfa parts, maybe a dealer-fit option, not sure.
@Rich.Aardvark
@Rich.Aardvark 2 жыл бұрын
Nar mate.
@ds1868
@ds1868 2 жыл бұрын
@@TassieLorenzo The large spoiler was an official option from the factory. The 17" alloy wheels are an Alfa 147 option. They do fit on the 156 as same hub PCD and offset but I agree with the other comment they don't look right.
@stephenbrookes7268
@stephenbrookes7268 Жыл бұрын
I have the lower level spoiler in ny v6. Whether it is actually needed, I don't know. It looks less boy racerish than the high one.
@PhD63
@PhD63 3 жыл бұрын
Beautiful car. Still looks good today. The rear doors/handle implementation is so well done. Initially I thought it was a 2 door and those polished intakes, awesome. The owner has certainly looked after this one.
@TheMK1004
@TheMK1004 3 жыл бұрын
Pretty sure the 2.5 also has a 6-speed as standard. My 1998 had it. Only fond memories of that car, although it had some peculiar faults and ergonomy mishaps (like the seat heater buttons being under the seats & 0 cupholders) I also remember that to change the oil filter, you had to remove the power steering pipes - the engine is really shoehorned in there.
@carlreading9916
@carlreading9916 3 жыл бұрын
Was lucky enough to have a 4 cylinder one of these as a company car back in the 90's. Loved it, gave no issues at all in 3 years and 80k miles. When it came to be replaced I wasn't allowed another due to "Alfa's known reliability issues". Absolute garbage. Passats on the company fleet had spent much more time in the dealers being fixed. If you want one get one you won't be disappointed. On the hidden rear door handle, I thing the FN series Honda Civic also manages to pull it off quite well/
@simonhodgetts6530
@simonhodgetts6530 3 жыл бұрын
Suspension apart, mine was gloriously reliable! As was the Alfa 145 I had for 7 yrs - only 1 breakdown due to a failed lambda sensor in getting on for 100k miles.
@jakublulek3261
@jakublulek3261 2 жыл бұрын
If you get 1.8 Twin Spark engine, that one has ZERO issues for some reason. V6s are quite rare, expensive to service but reliable. Diesels are popular but often driven to death and not especially economical. Old, 8-valve Twin Sparks from Alfa Romeo 75 were bullet-proof (injection or carburetted, but the carburetted ones are more lively), never, 16-valve ones with motorcycle second spark plug are sensitive to driver's habits and oil changes. Problem is that Alfas are likely very cheap used, bought by youngsters with no money and driven to death. Old BMWs have the similar problem but nobody seems to care because BMW.
@TassieLorenzo
@TassieLorenzo 2 жыл бұрын
Oh no, the company made you replace a 156 with a Passat that sounds just terrible, lol! Italian style and soul replaced by conservative, Teutonic conformity. 🥲
@bri77uk1
@bri77uk1 3 жыл бұрын
I had 2 156s (one T.S. and one JTS Silly-speed). Great cars to drive and, yes, the most beautiful saloon of the modern era, in my opinion. They do like to be looked after though - Cam belts, regular oil changes, suspension bushes on the wishbones and the like. Selespeed was indeed much better to use in manual mode... And I understand BMW's SMG was basically the same gearbox mechanism, as they were both sourced from Magnetti Morelli.
@neilychoppers841
@neilychoppers841 3 жыл бұрын
My late fathers last car, was a red 156 with black leather seats. I ran it for a year after he died, they are a thing of beauty. We had zero reliability issues with it, very comfy and a great motorway car. It was only sold on as the road tax on these is quite nippy & the petrol models are not the most economical. A diesel Sportwaggon 156 would be a good economical and practical option, but probably quite thin on the ground now. Excellent video as always.
@garygriffiths2911
@garygriffiths2911 3 жыл бұрын
I'd argue that the original Jaguar XJ6 design by Sir William Lyons was the best looking saloon car ever made - but there is no denying that the Alfa 156 is a aching beautiful car too.
@benzinapaul7416
@benzinapaul7416 3 жыл бұрын
I agree XJ6 is stunning but for me the 2004 Maserati Quattroporte Series V takes top spot
@jakubtetera7312
@jakubtetera7312 3 жыл бұрын
My old baby. I had a silver 99 2.0 Twin Spark. Nothing worked (radio, AC, window motors...), there was a dent in the right front wing and I had to top up the oil every three months or so. But when I took it out for a spin in the hills, I always instantly forgave her everything. I Had such a blast with that car - it's still in many of my favorite photos and memories. And it handled so damn well. The Brera that I own nowadays, although it's a great car in its own right, just doesn't scratch the same itch.
@johnpoletti7760
@johnpoletti7760 2 жыл бұрын
I've had mine for almost 6 months now, my first Alfa. 2001 Twin Spark Monza manual. Alfa Rosso with tan momo interior. I love it. Thanks for the great story.😊
@bc8580
@bc8580 2 жыл бұрын
Awe inspiring review of the 156 that exudes your love for this gem. Hopefully you'll get one soon if you already haven't.
@nomdeplume798
@nomdeplume798 3 жыл бұрын
We had a 156 Veloce in the same colour with the 5 hole teledial wheels and the Momo interior. She had done well over 110K miles by the time we parted company. She took 4 adults to Nice, and back without issue, apart from the only failure she suffered during our time with her, a failed headlight bulb. A journey of around 1,900 miles and at that point had around 100K on the clock. She also took us round the Scottish Borders through some of the worst rain I've ever seen. The A1 was completely awash with the verges and central reservation invisible. We replaced her with a Giulietta Multiair so at least she's still with us in spirit. Still miss that car now.
@TommyRogic18
@TommyRogic18 3 жыл бұрын
Love your passion for Alfas, if you don’t take the plunge soon there’ll be very few good 156s left. The wing on the one you have there is extremely rare. 916s are more plentiful for a few grand due to the galvanised/fibreglass bodywork.
@judethaddaeus9742
@judethaddaeus9742 3 жыл бұрын
I’d say that the Series 4 (pre-916) Spider began the trend away from hiding the Alfa shield grille within a standard horizontal slot. The Type 916 GTV and Spider were next to adopt it, and then the 145/146 did the same. But as you say, the 156 brought that trend to the midrange line, and it is undeniably fabulous.
@esi5743
@esi5743 3 жыл бұрын
I read your article on DT and came to see your video, i love your presentations and all your vids are well made, i hope your channel grows!
@jlewis3013
@jlewis3013 3 жыл бұрын
Ohh, what a magnificent blast from the past - fabulous. If put to the sword, my heart would always declare this as my favourite car; bought our 2.0 l TS back in 98 and had it for 10 wonderful years; actually cried when it ‘had to go’. Ours was decked out in dark blue leather with a ‘walnut’ dash trim - to me it looked stunning, was an epic machine to drive and I’ll never forget it. Feel like a total traitor to it but actually prefer the lines/look of the 159 though. Grab one of either if you can - you’ll not regret it Thank you for making this film and, thus, for making my day. Subbed
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks mate ☺️
@f.d.robben159
@f.d.robben159 2 жыл бұрын
10 years ago, I got my hands on a 156 2.5 24V by accident. One owner and always maintained at his favourite Ferrari dealer. No ugly rearspoiler, no rust, silver with red leather interiour and a six speed manuell. Less than 1000,- € and three years of fun. One of my biggest mistakes was the day I sold it.
@lr_s3102
@lr_s3102 3 жыл бұрын
You've just reminded me of how much I love this generation of Alfa - styling, engine, interior, engineering, chromed inlet pipes...
@chrisbwhittle
@chrisbwhittle 2 жыл бұрын
I had 156 1.8 Twin Spark, the day I collected it I was told there were only 10 others registered in the UK. It certainly turned heads. Unfortunately the next day it wouldn’t start. After two attempts for the dealer to rectify the problem and having to drive around in a Fiat Panda the salesman let me have his 156 on loan (encouraged by my solicitor). Once fixed it was a delight to drive. The sun roof seal failed after 4 years and the dealership said Alfa didn’t supply a seal and so a new sunroof was required £500). So I disconnected the opening mechanism and permanently sealed the roof. I kept the car for 9 years and sold it to a colleague who kept it for another 10 years. All he had to replace in that time was the Speedo, wiper motor and flexible exhaust coupling
@simonhodgetts6530
@simonhodgetts6530 3 жыл бұрын
Very nice - and definitely one of the most beautiful cars ever offered up, maybe the only car that just nudges ahead might be the original Jaguar XJ series………..pleased to say that the 156 Sportwagon I once owned had tan coloured leather seats and the phase 2 dashboard, which is much better designed imho. If you want a 156 get in there quick - unfortunately these are starting to get very ratty - I keep looking at 2nd hand ones, but to be honest, most of them are sheds. The only versions that tend to get offered up in decent fettle are the GTA models. Excellent video - very well presented indeed!
@sinisalucic1996
@sinisalucic1996 3 жыл бұрын
Great review, as usual! Your style of presentation goes hand in hand with the one from Clarkson, Hammond, Tiff Needel. You sir are their rightful heir!
@timothyclapham936
@timothyclapham936 3 жыл бұрын
Again another excellent review Edd, and again I completely agree with you. Your passion for Alfas is so infectious! You are so right the 156 is lovely and that v6 engine is indeed sublime! If you find yourself in Sussex let me know as I feel you need to drive one of these!! BTW whats your thoughts on the other Alfa Romeo that shares this platform - the Alfa GT???
@oldgeezer5861
@oldgeezer5861 3 жыл бұрын
Had a facelift 2003 156sw back in the day. What a stunner.
@frankmcgorman962
@frankmcgorman962 3 жыл бұрын
Very handsome design. The "lack" of a rear door handle caught my eye pretty much immediately. If you hadn't pointed out where it was, I don't think I'd have spotted it. Very clever way to keep the shape neat and clean.
@benzinapaul7416
@benzinapaul7416 3 жыл бұрын
The Q-System was also hampered by awful gear ratios, with a huge gap from 2nd to 3rd. The GTA was also available with the Selespeed but not on the UK market, it was slightly improved over the Twin Spark but still not a patch on the manual. I feel that Series 1 cars with none of the Sport addenda look the best. I always felt the 2 litre Twin Spark was the best all rounder - you can really feel the weight of the V6 on the front end - the drive by wire throttle takes some getting used to and they easily bottom out. The 2.4 5 cylinder diesels were good fun too, the 20V in the facelift cars were probably the quickest 156s in the real world and certainly the most tunable. The Selespeed shares some Magnetti Marelli design/components with the Ferrari 355 F1, Maserati 4200 Cambiocorsa and the best forgotten Fiat Stilo 2.4 Abarth which also used the Selespeed name. Great review...did you get to drive it?
@phil8437
@phil8437 3 жыл бұрын
Better and more interesting than any German rival. Reliable if properly maintained. Another great review thanks.
@giovannimillo6182
@giovannimillo6182 3 жыл бұрын
Nice video. Just one obs.: the manual 2.5 too has a close-gear 6 speed, not only the GTA.
@mauromolinari99
@mauromolinari99 3 жыл бұрын
156 sedan 2.5 V6 Pack Sport RHD is incredible rare!
@AlastairWalker
@AlastairWalker 3 жыл бұрын
Owned a 156 2.4 diesel from 2006-2010. Brilliant car for two years, but then DPF/EGR problems, wiper motor stopped one day on a rainy M6, that was fun, bulbs repeatedly blew, brakes worn out at 75K, cambelt and water pump job cost 700 quid, ball joints, battery, track arm rods...sold for scrap when the exhaust went at 85K.
@AlfaElaborazioni
@AlfaElaborazioni 3 жыл бұрын
I think you got the V6 gearboxes wrong. All the 156 V6 FWD came with a 6 speed box. They were shared with the Diesel engines and that is why you can drop a Quaife LSD from a late Q2 JTD straight in. The 156 V6 box had a relatively short final drive which made them really quick through the gears and the 6th extra gear gave it top speed. Is that unit a 5 speed? It's strange, only the 916 GTV/Spider used 5 speed boxes on the early 12V V6 Turbo.
@Negativvv
@Negativvv 3 жыл бұрын
Some GTA owners seek out the 2.5 gearbox for quicker ratios. Must admit, even with a 3.0 engine the ratios feel very closely stacked but that isn't a bad thing!!
@TG-pd3ft
@TG-pd3ft 3 жыл бұрын
did anyone else LOL when the intro line says 'pretty' and my eyes are drawn to the 'grotesque' rear spoiler?
@terrificspokesman7416
@terrificspokesman7416 3 жыл бұрын
With the red cam covers under the bonnet it looks even better
@1240enzo
@1240enzo 3 жыл бұрын
I thoroughly enjoyed my ‘03 156 JTS Sportwagon. Such a seriously stylish wagon and practical as well. Sadly i sold it when values were very low and going even lower. Now there seem at least here in Oz to be relatively speaking so few left. So many were scrapped as the cost of maintaining them exceeded their value. I so agree, they are one of the most lovely looking sedans made.
@stueyboy1966
@stueyboy1966 3 жыл бұрын
Was lucky enough to have one of these v6 in red with tan leather as my company car .. drove me near tears when I had to hand it back in .. although a fair few times I was in a courtesy car as it failed .. again and again .. but the engine noise ... omg .. certainly gave me a trouser tickle
@johnfrei9057
@johnfrei9057 3 жыл бұрын
Great video on an overlooked beauty. The only thing missing is a drive.
@basbouwman5139
@basbouwman5139 3 жыл бұрын
Got 2. First one with blown 2.0. V6 still going strong, 260k km and just got new mot
@richardhowlett9424
@richardhowlett9424 3 жыл бұрын
Very pretty car , I bought a new Passat in 1998 , how stupid was I 😨 Where you filmed this looks familiar , Stonyhurst by any chance?
@thebarront9889
@thebarront9889 5 ай бұрын
Great video but when people mention the 3 series they don't know that the 156 won five touring car championships back to back and could still give the 3 series touring car trouble when it had gotten old in the mid 2000's.
@Rjhs001
@Rjhs001 3 жыл бұрын
Really interesting Ed. Your content just gets better and better. Many thanks.
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks John ☺️
@peterthwaites5891
@peterthwaites5891 3 жыл бұрын
Brilliant review as ever... Sadly the 156 has for many years only appealed to "true petrol heads" often dismissed for fear of unreliability? there are some good ones remaining but far too many have been driven on a shoestring, unloved and more importantly, not properly serviced, and although rust was never really an issue (compared to Alfa`s of old) with the youngest 156 now being over 15 years old as with all steel constructed cars, rust it is now its main killer... Hope you get one soon!
@simonhodgetts6530
@simonhodgetts6530 3 жыл бұрын
Having owned one, I can confirm that, lovely as they are, they’re not cheap cars to run. I was having to have suspension bushes renewed almost as regularly as front tyres, and even using an independent Alfa specialist didn’t keep the bills down that much. Sadly, although the body shell is galvanised, these also rust - notably underneath the cill covers. However, they are beautiful, and should be regarded as bona fide classics now.
@adrianbirks8563
@adrianbirks8563 3 жыл бұрын
I had a 2.0 JTS facelift, I absolutely loved it but I do think this generation of Alfa required an enthusiast owner. Especially with the high cost of maintenance and oil consumption that could easily catch out the unwary. Unlike more mainstream brands at the time highly important to check weekly! But lovely cars, I think the 156 is the most pleasurable car I've owned.
@lucianistoc1264
@lucianistoc1264 3 жыл бұрын
Mine doesn't have a speck or rust
@OggyGTA
@OggyGTA 3 жыл бұрын
Great video, and very accurate with the info. I first had a 156 2.0 in 1999 and whilst i loved the car's looks and experience in the cockpit, it was crying out for more power. The 3.2 GTA sorted that out for me in 2003 - what a car. I still hanker for one now, having passed it on in 2015 at 130K miles. Still looking for the next one! Edit: Actually I think the 2.5 was a 6-speed?
@johngrubb1590
@johngrubb1590 3 жыл бұрын
Just a shame you didn't drive it Ed, you would never give it back just a fantastic car smooooth.🤗👍
@roverchap
@roverchap 3 жыл бұрын
The V6s get all the attention but the 2.0TS is a great all-rounder if, like me, you run one of these as your daily car. Mpg is in the mid-30s, and diesel-like 40+ on a longer run. 150bhp gives decent performance while sounding remarkably good for a 4-cylinder. Plus the car only weighs 1265kg. With the more restained styling of the Lusso especially with the wood-effect dash and steering wheel it is simply the most gorgeous-looking, understated yet practical saloon car. Who needs cup holders anyway?
@kevinoakes1171
@kevinoakes1171 3 жыл бұрын
Great review. I recently got a 156 2.0 JTS and I love it. Mine has the sport pack too, including the huge tea shelf on the boot lid. They are such a pretty car. I also have a 159 sportwagon and can’t bring myself to part with either of them.
@laurencekaminski4050
@laurencekaminski4050 Жыл бұрын
I think this is the best interior options, same as my dads 2.5l that I’m beginning to restore and get back on the road. Exterior colour is azzurro fantasia metallic which I think just means fantasy blue
@frothe42
@frothe42 3 жыл бұрын
Gorgeous Alfa Roméo ! Alfa just came back to the US market several times ago, a shame, since we did not get this glorious vehicle. Different from a 164, but that V6 still makes the sane glorious sound to make you think you are driving a race car. Now, I'm at an age where yes, I can drive a manual, but an automatic suits me for driving. And yes, I do know how to drive an automatic properly, especially when it comes to winter driving; downshifting on steep inclines, second gear starts on slippery surfaces. I also love the alloys, very Alfa. Great review as always Ed! Oh, before I forget, love the interior as well! Slim center vents, HVAC controls seem to be out of FIAT, IP typical Alfa Roméo.
@stuarthall6631
@stuarthall6631 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you, Ed! Great to watch! This lovely car is rather late on for you, isn't it? I would have thought to see you review a Sud!
@raywest3834
@raywest3834 3 жыл бұрын
" . . .covering over their mess with a bit of Tupperware." Nice observation, well stated.
@the_stoned_priest
@the_stoned_priest 3 жыл бұрын
I have the Veloce spec V6 Sportwagon in the same colour...I think series 1 cars like mine came with a 5 speed box then the mid-faclift introduced the 6 speed. Beautiful things which with the right suspension/diff modifications, ps4 tyres etc will hold their own against anything on a flowing and twisty Yorkshire Dales b road...Ask me how :)
@Big_man746
@Big_man746 3 жыл бұрын
My dad had the sportwagon facelift version, bluey silver exterior with blue leather seats. Its was gorgeous! I think its been exported or scrapped now, not entirely sure
@JimmyThomasjtpro14
@JimmyThomasjtpro14 3 жыл бұрын
Nice Alfa 147 in the background!
@wanderinggentile
@wanderinggentile 3 жыл бұрын
A few of these made their way to Costa Rica, where spares and servicing are at best dubious for Alfa. (Hyundai is the largest seller in the market.) One is regularly reminded that the peculiarities of North American safety and emissions legislation, while differing minimally from the EC and UK in their actual result, often conspire to devastate access to some of Europe's more interesting cars. Upon arrival in Costa Rica, one was greeted with first glimpses of 156s, 75s, and even mundane (but perpetually cute) Twingos in the metal. It makes one ask how much certain manufacturers paid for their legislators, and why worldwide rationalisation of safety and emissions regulations is not yet considered as a worthwhile goal.
@grayfool
@grayfool 3 жыл бұрын
Totally agree, lovely car. The rear wing is almost ironic though.
@paulhunter123
@paulhunter123 3 жыл бұрын
where have they all gone?
@richardjohnson3463
@richardjohnson3463 3 жыл бұрын
Excellent Alfa review once again. Hope you get one soon
@markm-ci6rj
@markm-ci6rj Жыл бұрын
I had one, although a 1.8 Twin Cam, for 15 years. Super car, never broke down, really crap MPG. I think the 159 was more beautiful, currently have a boring 2.0l Giulietta diesel, but it isn't boring , drives really well, bit noisy.
@Ricketik65
@Ricketik65 3 жыл бұрын
Such a gorgeous car and so lovely to drive as well.
@sameyers2670
@sameyers2670 3 жыл бұрын
Very nice. A Hull registration as well so local to me. Probably supplied by Jordans of Hull when new. Edit, just looked up the MOT history, this car has clearly had a hard life.
@mattturner2989
@mattturner2989 3 жыл бұрын
You're not wrong! I've sold the car on since Ed came to film it, but during the 10 months or so I owned it I had the engine and gearbox out, stripped the interior, welded just over a square meter of steel into it, new wishbones at the front, general rust proofing, a replacement passenger wing, rear main seal, most engine gaskets, and lots more besides. The car was actually sold new in Glasgow according to the HPI report I ran after buying it- with the reg TOP 156 (Likely now worth substantially more than I sold the car for...) Definitely miss the engine note, but of the two my 147 (appearing in a seperate Twin Cam video), was always the 'better' car
@sameyers2670
@sameyers2670 3 жыл бұрын
@@mattturner2989 Thanks. I wonder why it got a Hull registration when it got reregistered
@stevesteve201
@stevesteve201 3 жыл бұрын
I a 2006 import q system and love it. It's a shame a better condition car isn't in the video and that exhaust isn't a patch on my infinity for sound. Still good review👍
@ikess1
@ikess1 3 жыл бұрын
I've got one. What a lovely racket .
@andrealouis4214
@andrealouis4214 2 жыл бұрын
most beautiful 4doors saloon ever.
@rivaterrier
@rivaterrier 3 жыл бұрын
Great review of one of my favourite cars. What the hell is the owner doing with Joy Road tyres on the front?
@tjshill82
@tjshill82 3 жыл бұрын
Great video. All 2.5 V6 156s do have a 6 speed manual gear box tho 👍. I own one and a 147 😎
@beaconriskmanagementlimite823
@beaconriskmanagementlimite823 3 жыл бұрын
My 156 is the 2.5 V6 with the Aisin Q system automatic. Great pairing and much more robust than the selespeed
@the_stoned_priest
@the_stoned_priest 3 жыл бұрын
My V6 SW is 5 speed...I think maybe facelift cars got the 6 speed?
@tjshill82
@tjshill82 3 жыл бұрын
*later cars do have Q system auto box which I believe is 4 speed
@tjshill82
@tjshill82 3 жыл бұрын
@@the_stoned_priest which country ?
@the_stoned_priest
@the_stoned_priest 3 жыл бұрын
@@tjshill82 UK
@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain
@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain 3 жыл бұрын
Now that's a beautifal noise Ed.... Friends of ours had a Twin Spark 156 in a dark green with a red leather interior, it was brilliant to look at with the offset number plate, I managed to get a proper look when they asked me to detail it and I loved it, yet another car to add to my bucket list to drive or own! Was there any known issues with Selaspeed on the Alfa, I had a selaspeed Abarth Stilo and found it quite troublesome.
@pseudonym4957
@pseudonym4957 3 жыл бұрын
The usual relays and early ones had pump issues. 159 selespeed is probably the best, but heavy cars. Change the hydraulic fluid and calibrate clutch every year and they're sweet.
@petedenton9434
@petedenton9434 3 жыл бұрын
Love the 156 - but I reckon a pre-facelift 166 is a more elegant saloon design...
@konbal8
@konbal8 3 жыл бұрын
I’ve always hated that wing it doesn’t fit the car otherwise great review and beautiful video, thank you
@DjNikGnashers
@DjNikGnashers 3 жыл бұрын
Preferred the 155 but this was still a great design. Sitting in one, made me feel like every journey would have been an occasion, something special. Unfortunately I was addicted to RWD cars, and stuck with BMW's.
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
The rear-drive thing is such a shame. While I’m not one of those that turns their nose up at front-drive, a car like this really deserves a longitudinal engine!
@BojanBojovic
@BojanBojovic 3 жыл бұрын
Alfa sold almost 700 000 of these so they are somewhat a mainstream now, but still such a beautiful car inside and out. I never liked mine as it was a regular 1.8 TS, too soft, too tall on its standard suspension, and compared with my previous 146 TI it was not as sharp handling, but overall I still think of how great looking car this is whenever I see it on the road.
@peterclarke7014
@peterclarke7014 3 жыл бұрын
I have a 2000 6 speed in Aubergine. Fabulous.
@the_stoned_priest
@the_stoned_priest 3 жыл бұрын
Is yours a mid-facelift? Mine is MY2000 also but has the 5 speed box...
@malcolmherbert5127
@malcolmherbert5127 3 жыл бұрын
I think the original Jaguar XK 6 cylinder engines with their polished cam covers have to be up there as one of the best looking engines of all time.
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
Good shout!
@mrmash3085
@mrmash3085 3 жыл бұрын
Never owned a alfa romeo however I have every intention to sooner than later. Lovely looking car and a good video to express it's good looks .
@simonhodgetts6530
@simonhodgetts6530 3 жыл бұрын
I can heartily recommend the Giulietta as an affordable and usable starter Alfa Romeo. Mines on 91k miles now, and is still going strong. It also features those hidden rear door handles!
@mrmash3085
@mrmash3085 3 жыл бұрын
@@simonhodgetts6530 thanks for the tip...I will take a look . Cheers simon 👍🏾👌
@jakublulek3261
@jakublulek3261 2 жыл бұрын
One of those rare occurrences when ridiculous looks are paired with ridiculous power. I kinda hate how that rear wing looks but man, I only experienced Alfa Romeo V6 in 166 (which is inching to the position as the most beautiful and unique looking sedan ever for me) but it sounds and drives amazingly.
@mikeenglish6401
@mikeenglish6401 3 жыл бұрын
Excellent Ed….
@7302ab
@7302ab 2 жыл бұрын
what a car italian soundtrack
@goose4150
@goose4150 Жыл бұрын
Got to say I still prefer way more Giugiaro's 2003 restyling. Still, I'd love a Busso non GTA 156, super rare
@VictorSingh-k6y
@VictorSingh-k6y 10 ай бұрын
I agree good review
@matterhorn1975
@matterhorn1975 2 жыл бұрын
The 2015 renualt clio has exactly the same rear door handles
@TheAllMightyGodofCod
@TheAllMightyGodofCod 3 жыл бұрын
I don't like how it sounds when the engine bay is open... It sounds a bit like a diesel........ However........ I really love how the Busso sounds when you hear it from the tail pipe! Lovely sound!
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 3 жыл бұрын
It’s because microphones tend to pick up tappet noise. Once the engine is revolving at above about 3000 rpm, it calms down and the V6 noises come in.
@TheAllMightyGodofCod
@TheAllMightyGodofCod 3 жыл бұрын
@@TwinCam I noticed it sounded better when you reved it a bit but when the engine bonnet is closed and you hear it from the rear, it sounds even better! It is truly a magnificent sounding engine!
@Richard-Bullock
@Richard-Bullock 3 жыл бұрын
I am totally with you about the manual gearbox. Don't get me wrong, I love an automatic gearbox on the right car. But an Alfa sports saloon is NOT that car. And the best looking saloon for me is the XJ6 Series 3. But the 156 is a very close second.
@giulianomarco
@giulianomarco 3 жыл бұрын
Engine bay "Tupperware" 🤣
@davidpeters6536
@davidpeters6536 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Ed I'm a real Alfaholic.
@flyingarts6765
@flyingarts6765 3 жыл бұрын
Still waiting for you to do a Giulia, preferably a 1600 super
@Negativvv
@Negativvv 3 жыл бұрын
Correct me if I'm wrong but all V6 156 came with 6 speed boxes. I had a phase 1 with 6 gears and I still own a facelifted interior car with a 3.0 V6 Busso conversion. 7 years and counting... The car in this video seems to have corrosion issues if the MoT history is anything to go by. Hopefully the owner will save it. Not a fan of the wheels or the rear spoiler (a plain booted 156 is a beautiful thing) and it possibility needs a little lowering. Brakes in non GTA suck, the cars were under braked and if I have to be honest the handling in the V6 isn't all that. It's more of a cruiser than sports car. I personally think the 159 is far more elegant looking although the 156 is still a looker. Having owned a 2.5 and 3.0 Busso I feel the 2.5 doesn't really have a place if money and resources were no object. The smaller engine lacks torque, has poor fuel economy and costs the same to service as a 3.0 or even a 3.2. Obviously if Alfa made a 3.0 156 it would have stolen GTA sales! However I'm slightly harsh, I don't plan on selling my 156 as it really is the best car I've ever owned. Good luck finding one that doesn't need work. They are in their twilight now. Personally I'd go for a GTV if I wanted a Busso powered car again but please do your research whatever you choose to buy!
@the_stoned_priest
@the_stoned_priest 3 жыл бұрын
My 2.5 has the 5 speed box...Think perhaps the series 2 facelifts got the 6 speed. Agreed re the handling and brakes although i've fixed that with KW coilovers, Eibach arb's, Quaife diff and 305mm discs with Brembo calipers...Now has very neutral handling and stops on a sixpence. I just love the thing.
@Negativvv
@Negativvv 3 жыл бұрын
@@the_stoned_priest I had a Phase 1 156 2.5 with a 6 Speed box too, was a 2000 year model. Maybe the very early V6 came in 5 speed... My car has Koni FSD shocks with Eibach springs. Recently fitted a Quaife but still on original brakes. What 305mm did you fit? GTA brakes, MiTo ones or other?
@the_stoned_priest
@the_stoned_priest 3 жыл бұрын
@@Negativvv Mines a year 2000..I must do a bit of research on this. My calipers are from a RS Clio 197 with adaptors from Enzo Engineering. Love the FSD dampers - had them on a bmw 330i - really impressive kit.
@michaelpielorz9283
@michaelpielorz9283 Жыл бұрын
the guy that puts this spoiler on the Alfa must be sentenced to imprisonment because of a crime against good tast !his diet should be burgers with Nutella!!
@keithvers569
@keithvers569 2 жыл бұрын
I hope you will do an episode on the 33 cloverleaf
@TwinCam
@TwinCam 2 жыл бұрын
If I ever get offered one, I'll jump at it!
@keithvers569
@keithvers569 2 жыл бұрын
@@TwinCam I had one many years ago, the 1.7 flat 4. Used to leave 2 litre cars of the day for dust.
@flemmingsorensen5470
@flemmingsorensen5470 3 жыл бұрын
I bought a 156 the year it was launched. It was the worst car I have ever owned - its was the best car, I have ever owned 👍👍👍 It was quite low specs, and I could barely afford the (high) running cost, but I just “needed” that car so badly! These days I drive a Volvo V60 20, but still stop and stare, when I see an old 156. Its just stunningly elegant and sporty, at the same time. Now with the EVs apparrently taking over, we have to accept to drive soulless “vacuum cleaners”, with no addictive sound….
@roelsiebrand7181
@roelsiebrand7181 3 жыл бұрын
Shame about the handle bar on the boot but otherwise gorgeous car. Rims are epic too.
@doktoruzo
@doktoruzo 3 жыл бұрын
Another fab review Ed. Well done.
@niceviewoverthere4463
@niceviewoverthere4463 3 жыл бұрын
Apart from the ridiculous beer ledge on that car, it is beautiful indeed. Sadly all of the V6 ones here in Oz had slushboxes so - just no. The exterior is great, interior is great apart from those sunken dials, under the bonnet looks great too. Unless of course you have the misfortune to be a component inside that engine. The contortions of that poor timing belt for starters. Beauty that came with high maintenance. Reminds me of a Dolomite but with added timing belt entertainment. Haven't seen many 156s around for a while, and cars don't rust here. Perhaps they have all gone sprong!
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