Faults:

As you probably already know tyres can wear quickly if you like to drive hard, but the rewards are worth it!

The sunroof seemed dodgy, but I think the switch itself is a little tired and seems to work if I fiddle about with it.

The exhaust is quite costly, particularly for the silly chrome-backed one. (I feel guilty for thinking it looks really cool and spending extra money on it!)

Some of the suspension parts, particularly the some of the bolts seem oddly corroded, more like on an old Landrover than a relatively new car, so eventually will have to be removed. For the moment they seem structurally sound though.

The headlights are quite expensive to replace when they get cracked, but they past the MOT so I'm not too concerned.

General Comments:

Basically, a fantastic, fun, stylish and roomy car. One of my friends has a VTEC prelude which returns similar petrol usage and is much faster, but frankly a car that can carry fives up and do 120 with ease is pretty special.

My facelifted black Lusso is comfortable and spacious inside, but without the electric seats that seem to cause problems.

Handling is a bit tricky and I have scared myself doing silly things in the past, but I love the thing and don't want to smash it up so now cruise quickly and smoothly, which seems to suit the character of the car and my wallet.

This isn't a sports car, but a very well engineered GT that happens to have four doors.

The engine note is fantastic, with no apparent issues either from the powerplant or the gearbox, aside from the usual stiffness as its done 15k a year for ten years.

My car has been looked after scrupulously and it shows in the lack of niggling problems.

And that brings me to my favourite points of the car, looks and cost.

The Alfa is a classic shape, completely yet subtly outclassing much newer, faster cars around it. It's a really nice feeling to walk out in the mornings and see that beautiful red line across the back and the simple line that connects brake lights to headlights.

As you can tell, I love the thing, almost more than my old Opel Monza 3.0S which is much faster, but hardly ever works!

This, and the fact that it cost a not unusual £280 make this a five star buy in my opinion; try one out, you'll love it!

Now I'm just saving for a QV!

Faults:

Sunroof leaked and filled the passenger foot well with water if the car was parked facing downhill, but not if it was on a level surface. If it was raining or if rain was forecast, I parked it on the road instead of on the drive!

No other problems.

General Comments:

Don't believe the horror stories you hear about Alfas. If the car is looked after and is well maintained it won't let you down.

I owned mine a year, and in that time it was faultlessly reliable.

There was no rust anywhere on the car.

Inside the 164 it was spacious and comfortable. The seats were fantastic, and the cabin is well built with no rattles or loose trim.

The 164 handles superbly, although the ride is a little on the firm side.

The 2.0 liter engines pulls quite well and sounds fantasic when revved. It is economical too, averaging 32mpg in my hands.

I have great memories of this car, it is one of the best I have owned.

Faults:

Air con malfunction.

Needs preventative servicing, if you wait until its broke your too late!

General Comments:

Very underrated performance car.

Handling is absolutely sublime.

Engine longevity and strength are excellent (24v cloverleaf).

Subtle ride, perfect compromise between comfort and handling ability.

A car with true character.