Which Alfa?

[rob999]

Hello,
I've been tasked (once again) to find a car for my folks....my Dad's always had Alfas...from a 1.5 Cloverleaf Sud through 33's, 75's, 146's, 147's, 156 etc etc.
Anyway he will drive it most the time but as is always the case Mum has a say in it too.
She likes the look of the 3.2 Spider, Dad likes the Brera S 2.2.
Very different animals I know, space isn't an issue hence the spider being in the Mix.

Which would you choose and why?

Thanks!

[jamieboy]

I've never been a fan of the 2.2 engine - in fact, the 2.2 is why I've got a diesel 159 at the moment. It's recently been replaced in the 159 with a 1750 turbo, and I think this is meant to be in the Brera and Spider later this year too.

So if it comes down to those two, I'd go for the Spider. If the choice was 3.2 Spider or 3.2 Brera S, it'd be a harder decision and it would come down more to what you/they want out of the car.

[RicksAlfas]

I'm with Jamie on this one. I'd avoid the 2.2 - it's a run out engine and no longer being made, they are just using stocks up. If mpg is not an issue a 3.2 Spider has got to be a lovely wafter. If it is an issue, I'd wait for a 1750.

[rob999]

tahnks guys, i have to say the 2.2 isn't the most gutsy of engines. I think the old man thinks the prodrive revisions has somehow transformed the car!!

Sadly due to cost, they won't be able to stretch to the 3.2 S...as it'll be a used purchase...

[OperationAlfa]

I would avoid the JTS generally.

[pixelpimp]

Even the Prodrive 2.2 is a disappointment.
The only thing they did was make it lower and go round corners.
I'd take a trip down to James Wheeler at Black and White garage (Ind Alfa specialist Newbury)
He's usually got a good selection of nearly used Alfas on the forecourt.
Also why Brera, Why not the GT? It's still better than the modern Alfas and the V6 is an Alfa engine not an poor American excuse for one.

[rob999]

well i've suggested a 3.2 brera now as well..lol
hey i am well aware of the failings of the 2.2 brera s. Having read up on it they haven't really improved that much on the standard car.
Tbh I've never really liked the rear end of the brera but hey its not for me! whatever they get I'll be insured on it and drive it every now and again so...!

[segg250]

Spider 3.2 or diesel no doubt about the spider bit.

[funwithrevs]

pixelpimp said:

and the V6 is an Alfa engine not an poor American excuse for one.

I believe the 'GM' engine is a Holden block (Australian) with Alfa heads stuck on it.

[rob999]

last question then -

3.2 spider or 3.2 brera s?

[PhilipAlfa]

I would go for the Brera 3.2 S as you get that lovely leather dash...

[rob999]

well they've traded in their gt blackline for the v6 spider.
low down burbling exhaust note here we come...lol

[RicksAlfas]

rob999 said:

last question then -

3.2 spider or 3.2 brera s?

3.2 Spider.
HTH.