Should I buy an Alfa 147?
Discussion
I've been looking for a car to replace my old Focus and I'd more or less decided to just go for a newer version of what I have. Thing is, none of them are very exciting but they are common and cheap.
A customer at work has a 147 and I've been admiring it for a couple of weeks. I have a max of 7k and of course I want as much power as possible. Are the stories of unreliability true or exaggerated? For that price could I get a decent example?
I'm expecting a pro-Alfa bias here but any thoughts are gratefully recieved!
Cheers, Lemons!!
A customer at work has a 147 and I've been admiring it for a couple of weeks. I have a max of 7k and of course I want as much power as possible. Are the stories of unreliability true or exaggerated? For that price could I get a decent example?
I'm expecting a pro-Alfa bias here but any thoughts are gratefully recieved!
Cheers, Lemons!!
Yes. We've had one for a few years and would recommend it over the mundane mainstream offerings. It is important that you look out for a few things as with all second hand cars. A solid service history is a must. The obvious faults are:
Cambelt change is required every three years (and variator too)
Suspension wear - knocking noises coming from underneath the car can be indicative of worn bushes and/or the need for a new anti-roll bar
The guys over at www.alfaowner.com operate forums with a wealth of info on what to look out for in Alfas. Have a trawl for 147 buying advice. Don't be put off by the predominance of posts centering on faults .. it is a forum so people usually need advice or report problems ! Good luck with whatever you decide to purchase. Take your time, do your research and don't be afraid to walk away if the car doesn't feel right.
Cambelt change is required every three years (and variator too)
Suspension wear - knocking noises coming from underneath the car can be indicative of worn bushes and/or the need for a new anti-roll bar
The guys over at www.alfaowner.com operate forums with a wealth of info on what to look out for in Alfas. Have a trawl for 147 buying advice. Don't be put off by the predominance of posts centering on faults .. it is a forum so people usually need advice or report problems ! Good luck with whatever you decide to purchase. Take your time, do your research and don't be afraid to walk away if the car doesn't feel right.
I'd recommend one wholeheartedly 24lemons.
Beautiful to look at both inside and out, cracking rorty engines, pin sharp handling and so much more flair than practically any other hatch for the money. Cambelts need replacing 36k/3yrs on the Twin Spark engines and a lot of them like a good drink of oil, though its nothing to be concerned about. Otherwise, ensure you buy with FSH, check that everything electrical works, and you should be absolutely fine.
Oh, and get used to cranking your neck round after you park it up. Usually 3 times. They are
Good luck
Robsco
Beautiful to look at both inside and out, cracking rorty engines, pin sharp handling and so much more flair than practically any other hatch for the money. Cambelts need replacing 36k/3yrs on the Twin Spark engines and a lot of them like a good drink of oil, though its nothing to be concerned about. Otherwise, ensure you buy with FSH, check that everything electrical works, and you should be absolutely fine.
Oh, and get used to cranking your neck round after you park it up. Usually 3 times. They are
Good luck
Robsco
The most reliable and sensible version is the 8 valve JTD. It's certainly the most robust engine of the line up and still goes very well indeed. However I appreciate it's not the most exciting! Follow the various buyers guides and just keep your eyes open and you will be fine. One little thing which is worth checking - has it got both keys and do they both work?
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