99% of these cars are GONE!

The beautiful and groundbreaking 156 was one of Alfa Romeo's biggest successes in the late 1990's, with more than 670,000 cars built. Today, in the UK, the ravages of rust mean that less than 1% of the cars sold here are still on the road! Chris the Alfa Nut takes his super rare, restored 1998 156 2.5 litre V6 for a late Summer spin and talks about how this happened.
Follow The Alfa Nut on Instagram: / thealfanut

[@JethroBronner]

These pre-facelift 156s are aging really really well in my opinion. In that red with those wheels it really look spectacular. Well done!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks Jethro, I agree its a pretty & timeless design - well done Walter! 🙂🙌🏻

[@marcinfraczek3386]

Pre facelift have less cats ,less lambdas so only benefits with ownership.Nice one Chris

[@sergioalfa5122]

@@TheAlfaNut sería de gran ayuda subtítulos en español... gracias

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Sergio - I will try! 👍🏻

[@priddy6t9]

Hi, Chris, That's a beautiful example of the Alfa 156 and would be complete with the tanned interior. The detailing of the engine is excellent especially with the polished ports. However, with regards to your misfiring issue, it is possibly as a result of the replacement cold air induction pipe kit. Make sure it is properly secured with all clips, hoses, etc. are airtight. This is indeed common on the Busso engines. I had the same issue on my 164 3.0 V6 something ago, which was quite embarrassing as it started spitting out fire. The issue was sorted immediately as I secured the fastening clips.

[@tjshill82]

I’m a strong believer that the 156 saved Alfa Romeo in the late 90s. Winning European Car Of The Year in 1998 really helped raise the cars profile. Walter De Silva and his team at Centro Stile did a great job designing the 156 and it’s stood the test of time and looks better than ever today. Well done Chris for saving this one from scrap. Many wouldn’t! It looks fantastic now. If you would like to see more 156 goodness please see my channel and video on my super low mileage dream 156. Thanks again for awesome videos Chris 😎

[@TheAlfaNut]

I agree that it was good move for Alfa at the time. Your car looks great 👍🏻❤️

[@Negativvv]

I personally think the Giulia was a generation too late. If the 159 was a RWD platform it might have changed Alfa's fortunes. Whilst it's still a beautiful car, it doesn't seem to have that much going for it other than being a good cruiser and very good looking.

[@MaliciousAlfa]

I daily drive a 156 with the 2.0 TS engine The car is older then me (Car is from 1998 and i am from 2002) but i love every single bit of it Amazing to drive, enough power when i need it and even at 315000 KM on the odo it is still going strong

[@TheAlfaNut]

Great to hear your car is older than you Freddy - these cars have a lot of character and are pretty cool these days

[@cameronrichardson3108]

I’m replacing my 159 with a 156 2.5 busso I too am from 2002 😂

[@cirrus1964]

Driving my third 156 at present after many years. I never encountered any serious rust problems. And the Netherlands is even wetter everywhere! Btw, that stupid spoiler (which had absolutely no function in daily driving whatsoever), really spoils her beautiful lines.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching Dick - my feelings about the spoiler are also mixed but I'm keeping the car original as it was when new and the spoiler is staying.

[@stanislas4990]

Great video and great restoration. I have owned an Alfa Romeo 156 SW 2.5 V6 for more than 10 years, and never had any problem of rust. I thought that rust was a problem for Alfa Romeos of the 70's and 80's, but not anymore in the 90's and after. The V6 Busso has a lot of character and its sound is so great. The design of the 156 is awesome.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Stanislas - I think the UK weather is the problem! 😁

[@scuderiasenzasoldi8740]

So nice that you’re back! Really missed your videos. And your 156 is a real diamond😍 my dad had a 2001 2.5 SW in Azzuro Nuvola, what a gorgeous car to drive and to look at. Really miss it. Greets from Nothern Germany from Scuderia Senza Soldi

[@TheAlfaNut]

Gutentag! Thanks for watching and I’m glad that you happy memories of a nice 156. It is this nostalgia and affection that keeps old cars on the road! 🙂👍🏻

[@MillhouseSpeaks]

What was your first alfa

[@TheAlfaNut]

A 1982 Alfasud Gold Cloverleaf

[@philzvids3577]

I had one of these 2.5 V6 cars on a 1998 plate. Drove it for 11 years because it was such a great car. Unfortunately the floor pan pretty much disintegrated and I didn't know anyone capable of fixing it, so it had to go. It was replaced with a GT 3.2.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Phil, yes thats exactly why most have sadly disappeared - the floorpan rust wasn’t obvious until it was too late in most cases. ☹️

[@Mike7O7O]

Being one of the bunch of Alfa Nuts isn't an easy choice in life. But its usually entertaining and it always makes you smile :)

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Mike, yes indeed - how very true! Non Alfa owners definitely don’t see the same joke that you and I do! 🤣

[@SwiffyDK]

I have a 22 year old 156 2.0 TS. Did my first rust repair on it when it turned 17 years old.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Its something that needs a watchful eye!

[@patopatagon]

You are a complete nut for sure. Just hearing you and your humor gives that deep impression. I want alfa. Looking for some now. Giuletta 2013 1.4 170 hp? Or a 156 2013? Or a GT 2009? Which one do you recommend to me? Cheers from Chile. Just subscriber

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for subscribing! If you need 4 doors, then get a 159 (not a 156, they stopped in 2005! 😉) if you are ok with 2 doors, then get a GT - they are more fun to drive 👍🏻

[@ericthuku9731]

Hi Alfa Nut. I've lately become a fun of Alfa Romeos. I'm really interested in a156 T-Spar 1.6 that has been abandoned for some years now. Its gone for about 80,000KM, which I feel is still got some 20k to go before I start changing stuff here and there. What is your take on this. Its Rosso Red, Dark Blue Momo leather seats and a wooden steering wheel...such a beauty.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Eric, thanks for watching. If the car has been abandoned for years, you will almost certainly need to spend money and time getting it back on the road. Change the cam belt, the oil and brake fluid and service the engine at the least. Good luck 👍🏻

[@psircos]

These cars in general are getting rarer and rarer. They need a lot of tlc but for some models its worth it. I have a 2004 GTA sport wagon, in Gabiano Azuro. The "how many left" site doesn't specify between saloon and SW and only states 109GTAs Road legal left in the UK. I reckon about 35 of them are sports wagons. It's a gem of a car that I'll be taking to my grave with me 🙂

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Tony, thanks for watching! Gabiano is a super rare colour too. Hang onto that one!

[@1240enzo]

Still enough 156s out here in Oz. Rust generally isn’t an issue here, but rather low values vrs cost to repair them. Mind you numbers left are slowly falling. So many scrapped. I enjoyed my 156 Sportwagon.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching David - must be Summertime for you guys at the moment? Enjoy 👍🏻😎

[@LeandreTexier]

Sportpack on 156. In online catalogs it designates as E751. Mine 156 has it too and i'm wondering what kind of suspension kit was in it. Same catalogs say it was either a eibach kit or rejna(?) and since theese kits no linger availiable what are today's substitutions for them?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Leandre. The Eibach springs are still available I think but my car has yellow Koni shocks and blue springs (German I believe)

[@liamhorn1150]

I reckon the misfire probably injectors if you replaced sparkeys and coil pack Alfa Romeo 147s gta are going up in value quite abit

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Liam - I am working on this car soon!

[@typicalbrummie3852]

There's a lovely 156 V6 at work, looks much nicer than my 159 which desperately needs bodywork!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching mate - why don’t you swap them over while he’s not looking? 😁

[@ThePhilosopher01]

Thank you for saving this 156. I bought a 166 2.5 v6 recently and wanted to sell my 156 2.0 TS, but now I can't! ☹

[@TheAlfaNut]

Haha! Yes I know the feeling - its like “Sophies Choice” - trying to decide which child stays and which has to go!

[@adams7405]

It is a total heap then.50 percent of BMW'S E39 are on the road and even 25 percent of E34 from 1988 1995.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Yawn…🥱

[@155stw]

What front calipers are you using? They look like GTA330 or maybe a Mito style. The GTV305 has the old shape brembo. I’m putting a 3.2 in my V6 and I reckon the brakes could use an upgrade.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi mate, they are brand new Mito QV 4-pot calipers, which bolt straight on to the 156 without any mods needed. With good pads such as Performance Friction they are much better. I also have new rear calipers with Green Stuff pads and new coated Brembo rotors all round. 👍🏻

[@dercoss]

Had the V6 some years back. Lovely engine, if a little heavy on petrol..

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Derek, yes mine is pretty thirsty too! It averages in the low 20’s 😂

[@timwhelan4432]

Bought a 156 2.0 TS in Germany with 80k kilometres (50k miles) on the clock in June - done a further 10k kilometres of trouble free motoring since then including a round trip Berlin - Birkenhead and back! Good to see the content on these online - your channel and others encouraged me to ignore the doubters!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Good man Tim - a well maintained Alfa is just as reliable as any other brand. Fact. Make sure you check the oil levels every week on your Twinny though - they do like a drink! ;0)

[@worldhello1234]

That means if a Brit wants a prestine version of a 156, he has to go to Italy.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Yes, sadly that’s probably right.

[@LOTPOR0402]

Poor reputation meant high depreciation and high price of parts meant a lot were uneconomical to repair,hence not many left

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Mark, yes its a shame but this is what cars like 156 ultimately collectable I guess

[@Ziad-ww6tw]

Dont foeget to install a apuminium undertray! Its the best mod for any alfa of this era.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Ziad, yes I will - my friend Gary from www.totallyalfa.com makes them!

[@highlandutilities]

Looks really clean car, pity about the Italian cars problems with rust, FIAT, Lancia and Alfa's

[@LOTPOR0402]

Not much difference to others at the time Mercedes in perticular

[@TheAlfaNut]

Very true - Ford as well!

[@lorisdp8917]

as an italian i am honored by your attention to alfa romeo, national pride, but beer Moretti is not exactly the best we can offer... Ciao amico, continua così!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Grazie per aver guardato Loris - mia nonna e i miei bisnonni erano gelatieri di Cassino, che si sono trasferiti nel Regno Unito intorno al 1910 e ho trascorso molto tempo con la famiglia Italiano quando stavo crescendo, quindi sento un forte legame con l'Italia . Quale birra mi consigliate? Sono felice di provarli tutti! 😉👍🏻

[@joesozzi7123]

It might be the fuel tubes that feed each injecter that was the problum a friend had .

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Joe, a full stripdown is required! 🙄

[@kjbunnyboiler]

How do you get the data about the number of vehicles still on the rd?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi KJ - the “howmanyleft” website. All the stats are taken from the DVLA database. They are pretty accurate by all accounts

[@autoazure]

Love the channel and content however the music is rather annoying!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Sorry Jim - it might have been a bit too loud on the last vid! Next video has hardly any - just for you! ;0)

[@MLC...]

Great job on the 156, looks really lovely. The engine bay is just stunning. Here in South Africa I have never seen rust on a 156 (or 155, 146, 145, 164, etc). Here they are scrapped due to neglect and lack of maintenance. Broken cambelts have killed most of these off, especially the 2.0 TS models. Really sad. Hopefully enthusiasts like yourself can save the last few remaining cars.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hope so mate, values are starting to rise here now and that will attract restoration attention for sure!

[@MLC...]

@@TheAlfaNut Well I can see 156 values rising as I have no doubt that they will become collectable classics. I have also seen 155 values rising, of which I am glad, as I own one. When values rise people do not mind so much to spend some money on them.

[@TheAlfaNut]

True enough - you need to protect your investment! Very few 155’s left on the roads too 🤔

[@lorenzospina3174]

Wonderful car .

[@TheAlfaNut]

Yes it is 👍🏻

[@jakoblevesen8236]

A little irritation is, that you obviously like to see more of yourselves, than the cars. And talk talk talk. Please change focus to the cars.

[@TheAlfaNut]

😂 sorry Jakob! Would you prefer just video of the car with a voiceover?

[@TheAlfaNut]

…or no talking at all?

[@NaNa-wj8tw]

Lovely restoration but please lose that hideous tail :)

[@TheAlfaNut]

Sorry! 🤣

[@anakondase]

My very well kept 04 2.5SW is pretty much rust free and the small spots that are there I will take care of. Only problem is the fact that an Opel Vivaro decided he needed to use my rear end as a brake... so that needs to get fixed first.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Argh! Tailgate drivers really annoy me....hope you get it sorted soon.

[@anakondase]

@@TheAlfaNut Yeah, working on it. Insurance company don't want to fix it though so I'm having a fight with them.

[@deezacharo]

Hi AN what do you think of the 1991-1994 Alfa 33 ,8V or 16V have you ever driven one? any still left in the Uk ?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Dimitri - yes I have driven a 1.7 16v and I thought it was great - like a bigger Alfasud, it feels very similar. There are very few 33’s left in the UK now

[@deezacharo]

@@TheAlfaNut yeah I used to have the sud ti back in the days! amazing handling,!!!!,currently driving a 33 1.7 8v., Anyway, your 156 looks awesome!!!

[@marcopereira5576]

I have 4 alfas about rust all depends the way whe take care of them, they are practically rust free just some small parts and I have more cars German and I must say is the same nothing special all of them if not treated properly will win rust. I’m from Portugal here whe don’t put salt in the roads that is the problem against salt, all brands win rust.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Marco - thanks for watching. Yes the problem in the UK is that we salt the roads and we have lots of rain! 😒

[@marcopereira5576]

@@TheAlfaNut sorry for my English 🤦‍♂️ I must say that your 156 is very beautiful just perfect and with that engine 😍🍀

[@caindl7393]

A friend of mine as the red one same as yours and a black 156 2.0 jts with the sport pack both on the road ❤️

[@TheAlfaNut]

He’s a lucky man with two! They will be worth good money before too long. 😎👍🏻

[@caindl7393]

@@TheAlfaNut loves them, he would never get rid true alfa man, he as let me have a royal blue 156 that I drive around in needs work though ❤️👌 Great video glad your back 👍

[@accvanrobindebaas]

Car looks stunning really good job done keeping it on the road cant wait to see the car in person plan to drive mine to england for a small vacation and show mine at an event and look at other cars to see where mine can improve

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Robin, hope to see you at an event next year!

[@richard29415]

How many of the GTA versions are left in the world?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching! I don't know about the world but in the UK, there are 157 GTA's (saloon & SW) and 3 GTA Selespeed cars.

[@joseramonfdm6135]

Very nice 156…my 2.5 sw has the same missfire problems…will find the way!💪🏼 Greetings from Spain

[@TheAlfaNut]

Ola Jose! I think the problem is the ignition coils on the rear bank of cylinders (of course, it has to be on the back row 🙄). Good luck my friend 👍🏻

[@Rage40001]

not so rare with left side steering wheel, you can easily find preFL and FL versions for cheap, real gem is 156 GTA

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Rage - yes I think about 200,000 156 cars were sold in the UK, so maybe 400,000+ went to Europe?

[@Rage40001]

@@TheAlfaNut probably, coz I think other continents didn't get them. My friend has one, he bought her cheap and using her as track day car. He swaped engine, put 3.0 busso from 166 inside, also did some other modifications, great and fun car.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Yes I hear that the 156 with a 3.0 Busso is a fun car, especially if you keep the 2.5 gearbox, as it has lower ratios = faster acceleration! 😎

[@robertwalker1742]

Great video but why the music

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching Robert. Not a fan of music in videos? I find vids without any music a bit boring personally

[@Belznis]

Very good choice for a background car. I love that thing, even knowing about so many issues, like placement wise it is difficult to access things. And even with those issues, when you drive the gtv, it just feels right.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Belznis, thanks for watching. Yes the GTV will be back on the road soon. I need to focus on finishing the engine! 😱

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

It's a beautiful design,

[@TheAlfaNut]

Certainly is. Thanks for watching!

[@terryturner4116]

Speaking of rust I had a 2002 147 which had floor welded, I do t mind cause no one can see that, my 2006 147 2 litre has is rusting at the lower front of the rear arches and it's a metallic silver so I that would be a ball ache to get fixed...

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hey Terry, yeah those areas are hard to repair without it being noticeable

[@terryturner4116]

@@TheAlfaNutIt's a shame because it's a really low mileage well maintained car but that rust issue plus rain getting into the car from top of A pillar area and dripping down onto your hand is annoying.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Really? I’ve never heard of that happening before. Try cleaning the door seal rubbers with WD40 silicon spray, that can help if they are deteriorating 👍🏻

[@terryturner4116]

@@TheAlfaNut it seems to be coming from the area just behind the windscreen, part of the roof lining and A pillar trim is stained and when I pulled off the pillar trim there was black slimy mold there... I'm gonna have another look at soon but I've a feeling it'll need something better than blue tac lol. Oh btw you know when you said they hate the 156 in Italy why is that?

[@pentagrammotorsport]

I can’t believe how few 156’s are left considering how they seemed to be everywhere when new.

[@TheAlfaNut]

I know, its incredible. From around 200,000+ cars sold in the UK to just 1723 left driving around today!

[@kasimirdenhertog3516]

I’ve seen a lot of them on their way out with barely running twin spark engines. They require solid maintenance, especially at higher miles, and the 5th or 10th owner usually isn’t to keen on that. Also, the 156 has double wishbone suspension, which is very cool, but also sensitive to maintenance and expensive to fix vs. struts. I know a 156 owner who scrapped it because of the expensive work required on the suspension 😢

[@danijelbukovec7844]

In Italy you can still see lots of them around thankfully

[@samelliott9665]

How much is a respray?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Sam, thanks for watching. The price of a respray varies dramatically from a quick "blowover" in a backstreet lockup, which might cost £500 to a complete stripped down, glass-out respray by a professional bodyshop. That might cost up to £5,000 for a really decent job. You certainly get what you pay for with a respray.

[@LuXoR1590]

Only giulietta,mito and giulia dont rust.

[@TheAlfaNut]

You are probably right, although my 2018 Giulietta has some rust spots! 🙄

[@simoneliloni6117]

And 159 too

[@LuXoR1590]

@@simoneliloni6117 159 rust alot

[@simoneliloni6117]

@@LuXoR1590 I've never seen a 159 with rust, I'm in a 159 club and no one has rust problems, older Alfas are a bit rusty.

[@herrickmky]

I've a UK version 2.0 TS sportpack II that was imported here in Hong Kong 20 years ago

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching! That must be a super rare car in HK?

[@herrickmky]

@@TheAlfaNut It is indeed. The sportpack II is one of the main reasons I got hooked on instead of keeping hunting for a 2.5 V6 at that time

[@herrickmky]

btw, glad to see you back

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks very much for your support - much appreciated 👍🏻

[@liamhorn1150]

Keep the old girl going

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Liam, I’ll try!

[@davidcoates9123]

Still a good looking car that, i have owned 2.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi David, you are obviously a man of excellent taste! 🙂👍🏻

[@martinvickers7349]

good to see you back

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Martin - its good to BE back!

[@exgtt2061]

I miss my 2001 156 V6 SP3. Black with white leather. Bought it back in 2007, previous owner neglected it and I was new to Alfas so spent about £2k in repairs but then it didn’t put a foot wrong for 3 years and was warmed up then thrashed everyday. Put a Cybox cat back (tried a decat but it sounded horrendous) and a BMC Carbon intake and she turned heads… Sold it with 125k miles and apart from 4th gear syncro getting a bit noisy when rushed she lasted a good few years. When freshly washed with clean wheels she was a gorgeous gorgeous thing, every angle. I’d love a GTV V6 2.0 Turbo - Italian special 👌

[@TheAlfaNut]

Your 156 sounds great - the 2.5 V6 is the sweetest revving but a bit low on torque compared to the 3.0. I love mine even though its very heavy on fuel! 😜😱

[@MaesChristophe]

Hi, I love your channel. Missed it so much the past few months. I'm already looking forward to next week. Greetings from Christophe, Belgium.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Salut Christophe! Thanks for watching, I appreciate your support 👍🏻

[@HenrikArjen]

i own a alfa romeo 156 2.0 fully tuned by madeno racing. full exhaust, changed intake, cams, light fly wheel, upgraded brakes and a fully retrimmed interior with könig sportseats. it was once the demo car for madeno racing in the Netherlands.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Henrik - your car sounds like a lot of fun! Hold onto it 😎👍🏻

[@cirrus1964]

I forgot I already watched this, as I comes as a pop up again on youtube. Still think the spoiler is a beard on an beautiful Lassie. I would have taken it off straight away. It's also bloody useless.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Haha yes I know what you mean but I am leaving it standard as there only 3 x Sport Pack 3 156’s left in the country now. Anyway it’s useful if you want to do some ironing! 😉 Merry Christmas 🎅🏻

[@darrenlucas2768]

What a gorgeous car.....im envious. I had a 156 2.0 TS sport 2 back in 2001 and had it for 8 years. I loved it.....ok, no V6 for sure but still character there and style. My last Alfa was a 2002 147 with the same engine that I saved from being taken as a part ex for just £100 ,mental isn't it.....and with some TLC it was A super fun fast car with real style.......I think another Alfa is long overdue in my lock up, I prefer the pre 159 style cars myself but they are getting thin on the ground like you say. I guess it's the badge that matters though in the end isn't it. Good upload, I totally get the passion of this brand👌

[@TheAlfaNut]

The Twinspark is a great engine as well Darren! Less nose heavy than the V6 too 👍🏻

[@f.d.robben159]

some years ago, I bought ( sight unseen ) a stock 98 Alfa 156 2.5 24V in silver with red leather and wooden steeringwheel and gearshifter for less than 1000€. One owner and always maintained by Ferrari ( ..no joke ). scratches on every corner of the car ( due to the age of the owner I gues ), but no rust and no technical issues. After 40000km , the waterpump slowly started to leak.... Back in the days, I coudn't afford the labour for a new timing belt and waterpump. So, I sold it :-( It was one of my best cars ever!! Greetings from Germany ;-)

[@TheAlfaNut]

Gutentag! Yes, this is a very typical story. Its quite sad isn’t it? 😢. Thanks for watching! 👍🏻

[@PaulPadoan]

I bought my 2.0 TS new in 1999. I will try to give it litte overhaul this spring to get it back om the road. A very nice engien imo. Not my daily driver though, by a longshot.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Me too Paul - my 156 didn’t get out at all in 2022! 😥

[@bm7878]

Hi , whete do you have buy the pillow with the 2600 touring???? I must have it!!!. Alfa e basta!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi mate, my friend Gary found them on Ebay I believe. They were from Germany!

[@Rob-oi9mf]

That paint job and cosmetic touches on the engine look the muts nuts shame ,about the misfire,but its an Alfa ,the gift that keeps giving.I had a 2 litre twin spark a few years ago and loved it.Still see a few V6 versions in the classifieds over here in Holland but hardly ever see one on the road.”Bodywork modification by the locals “😅Lets just say the spoiler is definately a talking point. Nice one mate. Cuore sportivo sempre.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Rob - I'm pretty sure that the misfire is just old ignition coils which need replaced, the bummer is that they are on the rear bank of cylinders, so a top end strip down is needed. I'll just stop complaining and get on with it!

[@Brisbane2024]

Hi Chris, I am so happy, your are back in YT. Your 156 looks so great. I love that red Color. I am owning a silver, 2000, 156 1,9 JTD, 250.000 km, in series trim and standard suspension. Now nearly 22 Years old, nearly without any rust on German streets because of good extra conservation after picking up from the dealer.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Bielen dank! Did you own your 156 from new?

[@igorslagalo2378]

Love your channel my friend. Proud owner of a 147 coupe and a 159 sw. 💟

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Igor, thanks very much for watching! Any man with TWO Alfa Romeos is a true Alfisti! 😎🤜🏻🤛🏻

[@nikolajolevski3232]

Job well done 👍 beautiful 156 all best from Makedonija

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching Nikola! Regards from Devon. 🙂👍🏻

[@bikesmusic5380]

Great video - there could be another reason why there are so few left - poor build quality and market demand. Good to see Alfa getting back to business now though!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Build quality could certainly have been better but 640,000 were sold! Not bad demand to start with 😉

[@kasimirdenhertog3516]

The 156 and the man cave look great! Lovely Gtv too, though my eye is drawn to the dent in the door... Perhaps another job for the future? 😉

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Kasimir, yes it has a few small dents here and there but it will be getting a respray next year 👍🏻

[@huwd2292]

That is such a really wonderful looking car. Thanks for the vid.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching Huw, much appreciated! 👍🏻

[@kierandudson44]

Awesome video, I own a 2013 Alfa Mito as my second ever car and I love it, definitely want to get another Alfa after I’ve finished with it

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers for watching Kieran - glad to hear you have got the Alfa “virus” 😂

[@christopherp5749]

I've got one of these, SW, 2.5 V6, love this car !

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching Christopher, look after that car! 😉👍🏻

[@Mandroos]

I just thought now when I started my Alfa. You should check your fuel pump and the power connector to the tank. I striped one about a month ago and it was dirty... poor connection... causing causing misfire... hope she runs 110% soon!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi mate, thanks for the suggestion but all the fuel lines have been checked! Its almost certainly the coil packs on the rear bank 😒

[@TheAlfaNut]

…but I will check the pump connections 🙂👍🏻

[@Mandroos]

@@TheAlfaNut Just wanted to know from Alfa to alfa. The coil packs... when it "misfires" do you hear a ticking noise? Almost like lifters noise? I had that when I baught myne. On my inspection I found 2 coilpacks cracked open and 2 didn't have their connection points on inside the boot. Made a big difference I smoothness. I want to hear her roar soon!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Can’t say I noticed a ticking noise but I’ll probably change all the rear bank coils while I’m in there, as I don’t want to have to strip it twice! 😉

[@Mandroos]

@@TheAlfaNut hi. Ever find that misfire problem? Just wondering

[@jujujonbitcoinisplanbcrypt9618]

Welcome back buddy, really enjoying your new content 👌😎👍

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hey, thanks for watching and glad to hear that I’m doing something right! 😁

[@LP9Engineering]

Hello @thealfanut , great car and great video! I would like to ask you why this sport package model isn’t really famous here in italy. How it is called? and for which version/engines was available? Also, how you can know if the body work is original or not? thank you so much

[@TheAlfaNut]

Ciao! Thanks for watching. The reason why this version is not known in Italy is because it was a package fitted only by UK dealers at the time. “Sport Pack 1” “Sport Pack 2” and “Sport Pack 3” (this car is an SP3). The packs were only fitted to the Twinspark and 2.5 V6 Lusso versions of the 156 I believe and included 2 versions of the rear spoiler (low and high) black instrument dials with orange letters instead of white, a carbon wrap on the centre console and lower, uprated suspension. The bodywork is original because I have old photos of the car when it was new. The wheels originally supplied on the Sport Pack cars were 16” Teledials but my car has custom made 17” wheels which are replicas of the 166 “Supersport” alloys. These were made by a British company who are now closed and I have never seen another set.

[@LP9Engineering]

@@TheAlfaNut thank you really much for the answer. I’ve found an 156 1.8 Twin Spark with SP1, and I am interested on buying it because i think its beautiful… thank you really much!!

[@vincentvandervaart8019]

Had a 2.0 98 twin spark loved it no rust

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Vincent - you don’t still own it?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Casper are you in the UK?

[@TheAlfaNut]

Ah, so you don’t get the rain and salty roads like we do! I’m jealous 😭

[@Thecarman1994]

Greetings to Jethro. Really laid back videos !

[@TheAlfaNut]

I love Jethros stuff too 👍🏻

[@paolobragaglia]

It's so great to see a such gorgeous red rare alfa on England routes! :D Welcome back!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Grazie Paolo! 🙏

[@siraff4461]

I had a silver 1.8 T-spark. Lovely to drive but the MOT said it needed just under a grand worth of welding and most of the suspension bushings plus brakes were getting close and an airbag light was on. Since it was only worth about £1500 at the time and the bill was going to be around £3k it went to the scrapyard. I still miss that car.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Si, yes unfortunately this was a common story and the reason why so many have disappeared! 😢

[@siraff4461]

@@TheAlfaNut Its such a shame because it really was a brilliant drive - especially when you think it was only a medium spec family saloon.

[@SirTripps]

There's a gorgeous 156 GTA estate in silver nearby that I've been tempted by for the last few years. Unfortunately i can't justify the costs right now, but eventually that may change. I neeeed it in my life

[@TheAlfaNut]

Life is definitely too short to drive boring cars Cain - as my Wife says: “You don’t remember the money, just the good memories!”

[@SirTripps]

@@TheAlfaNut It would end up being a second car, I adore my Mini and can't be convinced to sell it :P Still, it would make for a great weekend wagon

[@Cento24]

Nice 156 you have there and a great video.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching Dom, appreciate the support. 🙂👍🏻

[@155stw]

But I think it could use an equal length front pipe :) . Autolusso Dan’s old 3.0 sounded fantastic

[@TheAlfaNut]

Agreed - I have Cybox EL front pipes on my V6 Spider and they sound great. Terrible ground clearance though! My mate Gary at Totallyalfa.com is making EL pipes which copy the Orque Japanese design - much neater and better clearance.

[@155stw]

@@TheAlfaNut Gary is a top bloke, don’t know him personally but I have some of his tools :)

[@gothicpagan.666]

That rear appendage, with the shape of the rear lights does make it look like a Mitsubishi ricer type thing. Who in Alfa thought it was a good idea to read max power and then copy it.👾🙂

[@TheAlfaNut]

I know, it’s a nutty throwback to 90’s fashion but it is original equipment and I am stubbornly reluctant to modify it! 😁

[@gothicpagan.666]

@@TheAlfaNut Usefull for the coffee mug😆

[@TheAlfaNut]

Or ironing your shirt!

[@andyhill8236]

Nice one Chris my old 156 had the tan leather interior what a lovely car it was but sadly succomed to rust

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers for watching Andy - shame about your car, its happened to most of them sadly 😭

[@andyhill8236]

If only I knew in the early years about the rust on the 156 but really looking after my gt

[@ganz7ful]

Love the wheels. Really goes with the red.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks, they are very rare 166 Supersport replicas!

[@jasonparfitt5936]

Great video ,good to see you back.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Cheers Jason, its good to be back - I’ve missed the excitement! 😉👍🏻

[@plasticpenguin1]

Love my 156 SW. Rarer than your 2.5. It has a 2.0 JTS in Azzurro Gabbiano blue. Only two roadworthy versions in that exact spec, one in N. Ireland and mine. I almost purchased a 2.5 V6 but the bodywork needed too much work to make it worthwhile. It's a shame as I'm a huge fan of the Bussos

[@TheAlfaNut]

Azzuro Gabbiano is a nice colour! 😍 I paid just £900 for my 156 but its had about £4k -£5k spent on it including a full glass out respray. It has gone up quite a bit in value since 👍🏻

[@plasticpenguin1]

@@TheAlfaNut My SW has never been restored or resprayed so it has a shiny time-worn look. I'm lucky in that it's totally rust free, even the floor pans - and it's never been garaged. I'm a little obsessed with Alfas, even thinking about another GT 3.2. Think wifey would lay an egg if I did. Haha

[@TheAlfaNut]

@plasticpenguin1 go on Richard - you know you want to! 😂

[@plasticpenguin1]

@@TheAlfaNut (Looks down the back of the sofa).

[@PeteMarshall-tp3ih]

Makes me miss my 156 GTA

[@TheAlfaNut]

I always wanted a GTA!

[@MrGazbod]

Welcome back Chris. A great vid of your 156. I had a Gabbiano Blue 2.0 one from new. Since 2009 I’ve had a 159Ti 2.2 and just had some suspension and subframe repair work done to keep it going. Alfa nut too maybe.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Sounds like you are to me Gary! 😉

[@richardjones2468]

Glad to see 156`s are getting the recognition they deserve. I`ve got 2, a silver/red leather `01 TS 2.0 and a fantasy blue/black leather `98 V6. Also have 4 other Alfas - `61 Giulietta Spider, `65 Giulia Ti 1600, `70 GTJ, `74 GTV 2000. Have owned many many previous Alfas and firmly believe 156`s are one of the better cars Alfa have made and in the greater scale of things likely to be " a minor collectible" Alfa. Over here in NZ they sold very well and because of our kinder to cars climate there are still many around. Rust is not an issue but sun damaged paint work and sun damaged leather upholstery is.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Richard, thanks for watching - that's quite a collection you have there, congratulations!

[@uniqpro100ddpc8]

I also have pre facelift red one with exactly same spoiler, but with Twin Spark 2.0 engine, I am not planning sell her at all, but definitely in future I also want to buy 156 pre facelift with V6, I am absolutely amazed by 156 prefacelift design. greeting from CZ

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi UniQ, thanks for watching! I hope you have good luck finding a nice V6 car! 😎👍🏻

[@automunirsi]

Subscribed from Italy... I have to thank you for all the works on this rare 156... You are a great person... now, I have to see others your videos! Bye Leo

[@TheAlfaNut]

Ciao Leo! Grazie mille for watching my videos, I love Lancias too - I have a 1980 Beta Spyder now, so will make a video about that soon 👍🏻😎

[@automunirsi]

@@TheAlfaNut oohhh The Rusty Queen in UK 😄 Great car that one too! I will Wait for it!

[@TheAlfaNut]

My first car was a 1982 Beta Coupe 1600. 😍

[@automunirsi]

@@TheAlfaNut Since I was a child, I love the Montecarlo version, but I like the Coupe too... When Lancia was Lancia.... 😊😪

[@PinkyRacing]

Next week. Going to help a friend, to finisch a 156 3.0 conversion back on the Dutch road. Minor axident , with a loose hood on the autobahn ;) But with a new roof, new windscreen and some attention; hope that it will be a nice driver for next years.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Oops! That must have been very exciting on the motorway?!! 😱😱

[@porsche356a]

Hi there, 156 2.5 V6 facelift and 916 spider owner here. I had an Italian AFAS portable car lift similar to your one at 6:10 but sold it last year as I never quite trusted going under it. Cheers Steve, Sydney Australia

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Steve, haha yes my lift is quite old but its built like a brick ****house! 🤣. I’m installing a “proper” 4 ton lift in the man cave now, so easier working in future. Great Alfa choices mate 👍🏻

[@doraexplora9046]

I also have a 2001 Busso engined 156 and without doubt the misfire is because of the rear bank of coils. There isn't much airflow back there and the original Bosch coils have a service life of exactly ten years. You will need to replace all six coils and all six spark plugs (iridium's) if you truly want a reliable car that goes as well as it looks. I did mine ten years ago when it was ten years old. I used Bosch coils with NGK plugs and it has been perfect ever since.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi Dora, thanks for the input! Yep I am planning to change the coils next, maybe even the injectors too. (The plugs are fairly new iridiums already.) its hard to find new coils now but I’ll try. 👍🏻

[@Thecarman1994]

You live in a weird world😃

[@alfaboycedda]

I love the 156, had a few of them, and currently still driving around in my 156 GTA Berlina !

[@TheAlfaNut]

Excellent choice mate - look after that car

[@LeapfrogAnimation]

Hi from rainy west Devon!

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi mate, I’m in Mid Devon but work in Exeter. It’s raining here also! 😂👍🏻

[@TheAlfaNut]

You must be Mark I’m guessing?

[@jamesdecross1035]

Great to hear of your work on the 156 - I'm doing exactly this job on my Dad's 156 1.8 T-spark sportwagon, too. Yes - go learn some welding! It is a very frustrating but strangely satisfying thing to do. But, it takes a lot of practice - forgive your first attempts (you will revisit them). It costs next to nothing to do - it just takes up a lot of your time.

[@TheAlfaNut]

Hi James, good luck with your Dads car, i have no excuse not to learn to weld have I? 😁

[@jamesavickers5961]

Grazie grazie Mille bravo ciao

[@TheAlfaNut]

Prego James! 🙂

[@russellclark1978]

Hi Chris. Your 156 is a thing of beauty Sir and its great to see the amount of love and devotion you give to her 👍 Keep up the good work 🙏

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks a lot Russell - its a lovely design and I do like saving an underdog! 🤣

[@SilverSurfer5150]

Spectacular 156! Droolville! Haha. 😍

[@TheAlfaNut]

Thanks for watching, glad you like it! 🙂👍🏻