147/156 Selespeed Wanted - Desperate to buy this weekend

[Ian156]

I am looking to buy a good condition high spec 147 or 156 this weekend. About 2001 and less than 60k miles. Looked at a couple but nothing suitable so far. A red or gunmetal grey 147 with tan leather, the three ringed cloverleaf/supersport alloys and full spec would be great.

cheers

Ian

[twinspark]

Why a Selespeed? - they're the only Alfa I would never consider buying.

[Ian156]

Because I broke my spine in a motorbike accident less than 4 months ago and am now paraplegic and cant use my left leg. But thanks for the useful response.

[twinspark]

You need a 156 2.5 V6 with Sportronic, then.

Sportronic is Alfa's 'Tiptronic' equivalent - ie. conventional auto with manual selection options.

You don't want the 'flappy paddle' Selespeed, unless you're feeling really lucky.

Main dealers will refuse to take in Selespeeds that are beyond the manufacturer's warranty and the indie used trade will only touch them if *very* cheap.

I know someone who used to be a main dealer warranty specialist - most of his time was taken up with Selespeed claims. Not only are they mechanically fragile, but the software has had more patches applied than Windows.....

So, to conclude, I stand by my previous post.

[Ian156]

I sold my 156 selespeed in May and really enjoyed it. I had no problems whatsoever. You have to be picky when buying a Used Alfa. I was and it obviously paid off.

[Ian156]

I have never seen a 156 Sportronic. Only aware of 166 Sportronics

[Wombat Rick]

Ian156 said:

I have never seen a 156 Sportronic. Only aware of 166 Sportronics

It was called the Q-System and only came on the 156 V6.
Seems to be a reliable setup. Only downside is it's 4 speed.
Good luck with getting back in an Alfa.

[twinspark]

My mistake. I always get the 2 confused.

Is there actually a difference, or is it the same thing with different names?

BTW: doesn't matter how carefully you buy a Selespeed, they always have the potential to go bang in a very expensive way.

AFAIK, Alfa don't even offer it in the UK these days.

Edited by twinspark on Monday 13th August 15:58