Potential manual 2.5 v6 156 owner

[Marek]

Hi all,

As a long time admirer of Alfas, I'm doing research into the 2.5 v6 156 as a potential replacement for my renaultsport clio 172...different beasts I know, but changing circumstances mean something larger and more mature would be welcome (as would the engine note ).

I was hoping for some opinions on the 2.5 v6, especially the face-lifted version.

Are they as dependable as the two litre four cylinder 156s? Are cam belt changes every 3 or 4 years? Are there any common faults I should look out for?

Is it a car that will put a massive smile on my face, especially when i take it out for an early morning drive into the hills?

Thanks for all your help - I'm looking forward to becoming an Alfista!

[poohbah]

Marek,

I own a series 1, 2.5L V6 6sp (for last three years). It is the best car I have ever owned. I think it is actually the best and most reliable motor-transmission combination available. Plenty of oomph, and the best sound you will hear from any block with less than 8 cylinders.

Also the last generation of Arese-built Busso engines. Say no more.

They obviously use more fuel than the four - I average around 10L/100km, but I use it as a daily driver, and am in peak hour traffic 5 days a week, and general maintenance costs are high relative to a standard beige-mobile from Asia. But as long as you have a good Alfa specialist you trust to work on it, and maintain it properly (stick to the recommended service intervals and replacement schedule for key components) you should be fine. Cambelts are every three years or about 60,000 km (non-negotiable).

The higher upkeep costs are more than offset by the ridiculously cheap price you can get a decent model for these days. I paid $7k for a two owner car with 115k on the clock, which would have cost $60k when it was new.

That's a lot of bang for your buck. I also have lowered suspension which makes a huge positive difference to the handling. The standard set up on 156s is a bit too boatie-floaty for my liking.

Only problem I have at the moment is that an inattentive goose ran a red light this week and caved in my front passenger door. At least he was insured.

So my advice is - get the prospective purchase checked out by someone who knows Alfas first and then go for it. You will love it, and it will put a huge grin on your face every time you step on the loud pedal.

[Marek]

Thanks for the reply, and sorry to hear about the prang.

I've done some research and there appear to be quite a few well-regarded Alfa specialists in Canberra.

Are the service intervals 6-monthly or yearly? Is $1700 about what a cam belt change will cost?

[poohbah]

Yep, 6 months, unless you have a GTA which is every.5000km. $1700 is about right. Shoumd also get water pump replaced at least every 2nd csmbelt change too, and make sure it has metal impeller.

[Alfapride]

Fantastic car highly recommended good balance too not as heavy as a gta and great value for money