Faults:

Selespeed electronics failed at 10,000 miles. Car was in garage for 10 days for repairs. No replacement car was provided during this time.

Gearbox failed at 40,000 miles. A new gearbox had to be fitted. Dealer took 16 days to complete repairs. As the car was out of warranty I had to pay the entire cost.

Back brakes stick during hot weather.

Much of the front suspension, including wishbones, anti roll bars and shocks had to be replaced during my four years of ownership.

Many squeaks and rattles from the cabin.

General Comments:

I owned an Alfa 156 for four years, but given my ownership experience I will not buy an Alfa again.

The car is beautiful to look at and great to drive, but the dream quickly becomes a nightmare when something goes wrong. The level of quality and reliability I experienced is well below expectations.

The level of support from the Alfa dealer where I live also leaves something to be desired.

Finally to add insult to injury depreciation on Alfa's is very steep so when it comes to selling on more pain is in the offing!

Faults:

Reliability fears proved groundless. This car has never let me down.

The car has full electrics which all work perfectly after 63,000 miles.

General Comments:

The V6 engine is a fantastic piece of kit. The howl from that big - bore exhaust is spine tingling.

The engine pulls strongly from very low revs in any gear, making acceleration awesome.

The front wheels have been known to scramble for grip when pushed hard, even on new rubber. However, this car can outperform anything, but the most expensive super-car or stripped down sports-car.

With the looks of a slinky coupe, and the cosseting leather and carbon fibre interior, the Alfa 156 V6 is a "must have a go" for all enthusiasts.

Faults:

Various lights on the car fail quite often. The spark plugs took on water and became rusted. The gearbox sticks in 2nd when cold on occasion (rectified by putting the car into city mode). Nothing too major and costly. Just a bit annoying.

General Comments:

The car performs well when in manual mode. However, in city mode gear changes are somewhat slow and jerky.

The engine comes alive around 3000rpm and feels and sounds really good.

The seats (leather) are comfortable, but the driving position could be better.

The handling of the car is very good and benefits from having the slightly larger wheels than the normal 156's.

The turning circle is very bad and a 3 point turn may not end up being quite a 3 points. Be careful in car parks!!!

If using city mode be careful when approaching roundabouts/junctions. If the accelerator is pushed hard the car coasts into the middle of the road without much power then seems to disengage power for a second then drops to first and jerks the car. This is not enjoyable with a large truck coming toward your door. Beware!!!

The car seems to rev quite high in fifth gear on motorways, but gives quite good fuel consumption non the less.

Faults:

I bought the car used three months ago and the air conditioning compressor is always on. I installed a manual switch to turn it off.

The car radio works in FM. It does not work in AM.

The brakes are extremely sensible and you have to be very carefully when you pressed it or your head will touch the windshield.

The gas meter is not accurate once it reaches 1/4 of a tank.

General Comments:

I enjoy the car overall. It lacks power during take off, but it works very well once it reaches around 3000 rpm. The look is impressive. Very comfortable and quiet.