Spider 2.4JTD?

[macdeb]

So, been looking at these for a while and thinking of getting one to replace our 147jtd lusso. Any experiences? [real life, not something read] Also, any 'good' ones for sale? ta.

[Nigel_O]

They are a nice place to be and they look wonderful. The 5-pot motor is quite pleasant-sounding (for a diesel), but its not very frugal. Its a pretty heavy car, so performance won't be amazing, although they can be mapped to some pretty impressive figures (250+ bhp and LOTS of torque). the 159/Brera/Spider suffers significant rust issues on the front subframe, so worth inspecting very carefully, or getting a specialist to do it for you. Occasional roof issues on the Spider.

Your 147 will seem like a go-kart in comparison, with sharper handling and better economy. However, the 147/156/GT is nowhere near as refined as the 159/Brera/Spider

FWIW, I've been thinking about a 2.4 Brera to replace my GT diesel, but most people have recommended I stay with the GT

All of the above is based on my experience working for Motormech, an Italian Indy in Birmingham

[macdeb]

^^^^ Thanks Nigel, It's actually going to be difficult to let the 147 go TBH as we've had it from new and it has been the best car we've ever had and still drives like new, but I do fancy getting 'er indoors a convertible and the Alfa Spiders look fab for the money at around £8k.
Any other experiences?

[Nigel_O]

If you want reliable, buy German - TT, SLK, or of course go Jap with the ubiquitous MX5

If you want stylish, buy Italian and put up with the niggles and breakdowns

TBH, a good Spider will be everything wifey would ever need

Fiat Barchetta is a left-field (and lhd) choice, with strong values. Also consider the Alfa 916 Spider - still a few good ones around, but nowhere near as defined as the current Spider