156 2.5 V6

[mgbond]

Hi Guys,

Looking at changing the run around and thought about this as an option. will spend up to 2k so could pick one up with around 80k on the clock or maybe less.

Is there anything to look out for and what do you think I will get out of it milage wise?

Also what the tax on it?

Cheers

Bondy

[robsco]

Tax is £112.75 for 6 months. Engine is sublime, but make sure it pulls cleanly all the way through the rev range. If it doesn't, it could be the MAF. Listen for suspension knocks or squeaks, as wishbones and bushes aren't the strongest.

As with any car, check that everything electrical works. Also ensure that the belts have been changed, along with the water pump. The Alfa interval is 72k or 5 years, but most see that as far too long; the accepted norm seems to be 48k. As for fuel consumption, mine is averaging around 22mpg, but expect no more than late teens round town.

If everything checks out, go for it. You'll hear a lot of praise surrounding the Alfa V6, all of which is deserved. They sound absolutely gorgeous, pull like a train and are exceptionally smooth. Oh, one last thing - check fluid levels regularly, get them serviced by somebody who knows the cars and how to work on them, and you won't go far wrong.

Hope that helps.

[mgbond]

Thanks for that.

My other options are Seat Leon Cupra, A3 or Golf.

I have to say the the Leon (current fave) should be a bit better mpg. I get 27 from the noble on runs but it's mainly around 18mpg.

The current tank dies about 20 around town so not sure what to go fir now.

Maybe best I just drive all options and take it from there.

Bondy.

[robsco]

You'll have a hard time ignoring the Alfa when you drive one, the engine will blow you away. Don't take my fuel consumption as the norm either, mine seems comparatively juicy with others on here. When I was asking the questions you are now, 25-30mpg seemed to be the norm.

[MLC166]

They dont make engines like the Alfa V6 anymore and are unlikely ever to do so again. The stats say it all, its an all alloy quad cam 24 valve 60 degree V design that uses sodium cooled exhaust valves help keep the temperatures under control. It was designed by a guy named Busso who had a hand in designing the ferrari V12 many moons ago. Some say it sounds better than the Ferrari V8. Stick a decent exhaust system like a Ragazzon system and it sounds amazing. The noise mine makes past 4000 rpm it pure italian magic. Name me another engine with pedigree like that :;

Hope this helps make up your mind.

[dufusmuppet]

MLC166 said:

They dont make engines like the Alfa V6 anymore and are unlikely ever to do so again. The stats say it all, its an all alloy quad cam 24 valve 60 degree V design that uses sodium cooled exhaust valves help keep the temperatures under control. It was designed by a guy named Busso who had a hand in designing the ferrari V12 many moons ago. Some say it sounds better than the Ferrari V8. Stick a decent exhaust system like a Ragazzon system and it sounds amazing. The noise mine makes past 4000 rpm it pure italian magic. Name me another engine with pedigree like that :;

Hope this helps make up your mind.

+1 (nicely summed up)

[crostonian]

Great cars, as soon as you buy one ensure you change the cambelt, tensioner, water pump and check the pulleys also, will cost £350 to £500 at a specialist. Check the gear synchros also, the clutch/drive by wire throttle relationship causes some drivers to slip the clutch, 3rd and 4th gear sychros can wear so make sure no snicking gears.