USED Alfa Romeo 147 Hatchback (01 - 09)

My car

I used to drive Fiats and Lancias so was a little hesitant about going Italian again. But I loved the look of the car, the equipment and the great value for money.

If you're thinking about buying a 147 I'd definitely recommend it to you. Build quality scare stories and rust worries from the 1980s seem to have been resolved.

My car

Despite preconceptions, the car has been reliable and of a high quality.

The car not only looks and drives well, it's practical and not run of the mill. The alloys do make the ride a little harder but I think they are worth it for the looks.

I've also had no problems with the SeleSpeed gearbox and appreciate being able to keep both hands on the wheel whilst driving fast on twisty country roads.

It's so much more interesting than a boring Golf and has an interior with as good quality.

Oh yes - and the engine just loves to sing at high revs...

My car

What can I say...? Ignore any bad press regarding reliability problems with these cars. I've had absolutely no problems to report so far.

This being my first Alfa, I was initially dubious of questionable Italian reliability - however, the latest range of Alfa cars seem as well screwed together as any other European car including the German rivals! The materials used are first-class too.

The 147 handles superbly, sounds wonderful, accelerates rapidly, looks absolutely drop-dead gorgeous (like nothing else on the road), is comfotable and refined when required yet fun and sporty too.

To sum up, the 147 is most definitely a force to be reckoned with and deserves far better credibility. What other car offers so much style, prestige, performance, fun and practicality?

Remember, Italy is the home of Ferarri and Lamborgini, so I think the Italians know a thing or two about automotive style, performance and handling.

Buy an Alfa. I did and I know you won't be disappointed!