1993 Alfa Romeo 164 3.0 auto
Faults:
Initially some cold start problems, cheaply sorted out. Then oil pressure sensor stopped work, sagging roofliner and wear and tear items like front shocks etc had to be replaced. Repair costs seem reasonable, but previous cars did not spoil me in this respect. No breakdown so far.
Electric driver seat does not move forward or backward, but I don't want anyone else to drive it anyway.
Some grinding noise when braking, and what I think is some knocking in the brakes under acceleration. Initially the ABS fail light came on occasionally, but now not anymore (maybe because the car gets more vigorous exercise). Sounds like a lot of trouble, but actually all minor things.
General Comments:
Bought one owner car 1/2 year ago with 51k, and added another 21k in the meantime. A beautiful car, with eager performance, excellent handling, a real pleasure to drive.
Boot a little bit small. In fact, nearly all electrics work fine, and I look forward every morning to see the lights come on and the engine fall into its nice melodious bark. Performance, though not mindblowing, is very satisfactory and it seems to outperform about 99% of other cars on the road. Due to some prejudice, I never thought I would buy an Alfa (rusting, dodgy electrics and more), but after driving it I had to have it - such a nice compromise of practicality, performance and enjoyment. Open the bonnet and look at the engine - who could resist?
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 19th November, 1999