Faults:

Worn variator; still pulls like an ox tho.

Bottom arms worn.

Exhaust gasket replaced 3 times due to lack of exhaust brackets.

Gear box a bit notchy.

Clutch release bearing whining.

General Comments:

Brilliant car to own. Was a bit hesitant to get one, but the looks and sound of the car just begged me to.

Just have to keep an eye on the oil level and maintain her well. Doesn't take a genius to do that. Never let me down as of yet, daily drive for work.

Bit pricey on fuel, but if drove sensibly through a full tank can return somewhere above 350miles if very sensible. If "hammered" everywhere you may be lucky to get just about 200 miles to a full tank.

Loverly car to own... sure I won't be saying that if it fails on me, as parts are expensive. For one exhaust gasket, it had to be specially ordered and wait for a week, and cost £10.40 for one.

Faults:

Knock Sensor and Lambda sensor replaced at 4 years

Gearbox now a little notchy.

Rear washer hasn't been much cop since I bought it in 1999. Lack of pressure I think.

Passenger window now slow to open - motor is likely dying a slow death.

Windscreen wiper rack badly worn and in need of replacement at 7 years old.

General Comments:

The car has a lovely sounding engine. The engine is probably its best feature overall, with a respectable top speed and reasonable torque throughout the gearing range.

Precise steering, although on very windy roads or at speed you will notice body roll and understeer. However, this isn't uncommon among FWD cars and I wouldn't class it as a major failing.

The quality of the interior trim is pretty good. I've never had any major problems with rattles, scuttle-shake and the like. However, being 6 foot 2 inches, I don't find the seats very comfortable over long journeys (3 hours plus). I suspect shorter drivers wouldn't suffer this problem.

Quirky looks which won't appeal to everyone. That said, it has a lovely back end.

Main things to look at if considering a second hand Cloverleaf would be:

* Leaking oil

* Notchy gears

* Play in steering wheel

* Electrical faults - particularly windows

* High idling speed at start-up.

Faults:

Paint (Alfa Red) faded badly and I had to have a full re-spray.

Squeaky brakes (even the drilled and vented replacements now fitted!)

General Comments:

Amazingly capable little pocket rocket!

A great little everyday car, if a bit 'jerky' at low speeds and a bit thirsty all the time...

...however, a joy to drive quickly and where better than on a race track? Well balanced handling, stunning brakes (although I have fitted kevlar pads) and sounds wonderful at high revs.

Faults:

Sunroof doesn't close flush. Alfa refused to change it, because it isn't covered by the 2nd and 3rd year warranty.

Vibration from the exhaust box, at around 2,000 rpm, again, which Alfa wouldn't change.

The mirrors and panels above the rear windows are a darker red than the rest of the car.

General Comments:

Vredestein tyres were new at 24,000, and the fronts are almost finished at 36,000.

Alfa Romeo servicing wherever you go, at least in the London area is awful. If you have a German car the service side isn't too important. But with an Alfa, good service is vital!

Faults:

One week after getting it the stereo packed up.

Cylinder head at 78,000, fuse box, sunroof tray, lambda probe, throttle sensor, idle regulator, numerous headlight bulbs.

General Comments:

Fantastic to drive but build quality annoying. Performance could be better but the boxer sounds great!

Faults:

Bought July 1997 - 1,100 miles.

New front brake pads - 13,000 miles, tracking reset.

New rear shock absorbers - 20,000 miles.

New front tyres - 20,000 miles.

Currently 21,000 miles - brake pad warning light starting to come on again.

General Comments:

Has anyone put some decent suspension on a Cloverleaf? Email details please

denzilhart@netscape.net