plasticpenguin
Registered User
For all things good, bad or indifferent about Alfas, please post here.
Here's my take. I've owned nothing but Alfas for 12 years. There are many lukewarm reviews and horror stories connected with the brand. Touch wood I've not had any outside the norm.
Why do I like Alfas? Many reasons but... firstly, they are beautifully designed, understated but beautiful. I love their Italianness: My dials are deep fluted, and instead of a petrol gauge it says "Benzina". Likewise with the water temperature, it says "Acqua". That's quite cool.
It has a long throw gear stick. If you asked an Italian engineer about a short shift gear stick, he'll probably say: "Fantastic with pasta".
The biggest problem with Alfas? Owner ignorance. Any potential owner needs to know what to listen out and look for. The cars need to be serviced at the right time and use the correct oil: Petronas Selenia.
The V6 Busso engines are fantastic. Giuseppe Busso first designed V6 and racing engines for Alfa around 1948. My 2.0 JTS engine is a smaller version of the Busso engine, and NOT an one based on a FIAT Tipo.
Above all else they are a hoot to drive: The steering and throttle response is so immediate. They are bonkers
To sum up: Great to drive - a real drivers car, even entry-level models. Oil and cambelt needs to be changed on regular basis. A bit of owner savvy.
Here's my take. I've owned nothing but Alfas for 12 years. There are many lukewarm reviews and horror stories connected with the brand. Touch wood I've not had any outside the norm.
Why do I like Alfas? Many reasons but... firstly, they are beautifully designed, understated but beautiful. I love their Italianness: My dials are deep fluted, and instead of a petrol gauge it says "Benzina". Likewise with the water temperature, it says "Acqua". That's quite cool.
It has a long throw gear stick. If you asked an Italian engineer about a short shift gear stick, he'll probably say: "Fantastic with pasta".
The biggest problem with Alfas? Owner ignorance. Any potential owner needs to know what to listen out and look for. The cars need to be serviced at the right time and use the correct oil: Petronas Selenia.
The V6 Busso engines are fantastic. Giuseppe Busso first designed V6 and racing engines for Alfa around 1948. My 2.0 JTS engine is a smaller version of the Busso engine, and NOT an one based on a FIAT Tipo.
Above all else they are a hoot to drive: The steering and throttle response is so immediate. They are bonkers
To sum up: Great to drive - a real drivers car, even entry-level models. Oil and cambelt needs to be changed on regular basis. A bit of owner savvy.