Alfa 156 - viewing a V6

[OctaneV8]

Going to look at a 98 V6 with 135k on the clock, looks presentable in photos.

Want to buy my first Alfa so it must be a good one as I would like to keep it long-term.

I've read it's worth having a look underneath for rust, well this one's been lowered...

Noticed there's some bubbling on the sill, are these strutural and can these be replaced?


Had a look on the alfa forum, looks like a lot of 156s rust within 10 years!
Assuming its 2-300 quid job at the bodyshop what should I offer?

Really keen on the V6 noise - and am willing to prove the 25 er more like 20mpg average wrong.

Thanks

Edited by OctaneV8 on Friday 5th March 21:43

[dufusmuppet]

good luck with trying to get above 20mpg out of a v6.most important thing is cambelt,waterpump,idlers and at aroud 500 to 600 pounds every 4 years 48k miles,budget accordingly.keep an eye on the coolant and oil,and rust on older cars as said.after all that enjoy your v6 i do.......

[rhysenna]

Just a heads up on the cambelt change. I bought a V6 thinking the belts and idlers had been done, the idlers hadn't, bang! 1500 quid later rebuilt engine(All things Alfa, top job). Double check if you can, dont take someones word for it. Lesson learned.

Highly recommend buying 1 still. Beautiful sound.

[MattyB_]

Shouldn't have a problem getting above 20mpg as long as your not keeping it pinned - I'm averaging 22mpg in mine, which is far, far from standard...thats around Town/B/A roads. On the motorway I can get 28mpg without any trouble.