1994 Alfa Romeo 164 V6 TB Super 2.0 cc. petrol
Summary:
If you are not rich and/or don't want to own ordinary BMWs or Mercs and have high standards, get it.
Faults:
Nothing 'that' serious:
-power steering hose punctured, the only time I had to have it towed.
-in first gear, oscillation in RPM can cause transmission to disengage. despite overhauling gearbox twice, problem persists.
-odds and ends regarding sophisticated electronic/electric systems, mirror folding doesn't work etc.
- 2nd cylinder oils the spark plug, adversely affecting firing.
-rugged idling.
General Comments:
So many things to be said, due to so many factors. these cars are problematic mostly because their previous owners let the issues build up, ignoring anything that doesn't force a breakdown on the road. same for maserati as well.
Despite having bought it in a not-so-well-looked-after condition, lacking a complete re-haul of the engine, which is at 177k now, the car is an incredible ride. my turbo pressure had been increased somewhat and I suspect it generates some 220+ hp. as long as you can down-shift quickly, the car propels itself instantaneously, passing on winding and narrow roads, even, takes about 1 sec. handling simply defies laws of physics, imagine playing the first version of 'need for speed', where no matter what you do, the car stays firmly on the road. it simply outclasses anything short of a porsche or serious 4X4's sports cars in this aspect.
Unlike the aforementioned cars, it's either cheaper, better built, looks thrice as good, is more fuel-efficient, more comfortable, more luxurious/hi-tech or all of the above.
I'll either sell this for a newer 166 3.0 or 2.0 turbo, a bargain '95-'97 Maserati Ghibli or Quattreporte, a '95 Jaguar XJR or put serious money into it and keep it for another 2-3 years. There simply aren't better choices in the Turkish car market with respect to my personal preferences.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 20th September, 2005
5th Nov 2011, 02:51
Don't do it. You will ruin the beautiful 164 forever.
Semih Sevgör, Ankara.