Wanted 156 V6

[alanm]

Anyone out there interested in selling their 156 V6 Q-System Auto?

I, or rather my wife is after something very specific.

Ideally 2003 face lifted model (not the Giugiaro model, I don't think the budget goes that far)

Red with tan or black tan interior
Black with tan or red interior
Silver or gunmetal with red interior

Must have full service history with recognised alfa repairers.
Must 100,000 klms or less.

I just can't take looking in Carsales etc any more!!

Alan

[alanm]

After much deliberation I ended up checking out a car advertised on Carsales by a Sydney dealer.

2001 V6 Q System Monza, Rosso Proteo with tan interior, 25,000 klms (not a typo). Manning Motors serviced it and changed the cam belts, tensioners 12 months ago - they described it as immaculate. Spoke to the previous owner, and he said it was immaculate. So I flew up there on Saturday bought it and drove it back. Nice way to get to know a car!

First impressions – yes its got some soul. Behaves like a pussy cat when the transmission is in city mode, but when its in sport mode its a completely different car - feels like its got balls. I think the Q system is going to be fun to fool around with (yes, the manual would be even better). Handling on some twisty bits (not the Hume hwy) feels tight and precise, turn in is good and it never felt like it was understeering. Though my car is a GTV6, the family car is a SAAB 93 so I am coming off a low base in regards to handling!!

Anyway, I am loving the car, and so is my wife.

[John Hanslow]

Congratulations on your purchase, sounds like a great low km car.  Red with beige interior is a good look and the Monza features are a benefit.

One thing though, make sure that the water pump was changed (from plastic to the upgraded metal one) when the belt was changed.  If not, just be mindful that the plastic fins may break off with age and engine may overheat so be wary of that.

Or if you do go to a dealer, ask about any upgrades to the Q-system auto, I understand they will download newer computer settings to improve things somewhat - or so I was told !

I am sure you will find a local Alfa Specialist (many are sponsors) to take the car to for servicing and maybe you may join the club and we will see the car on an Early Morning Run ?

Cheers.

[alanm]

Thanks John I have been following your comments about the water pump, I'll have Pur Sang/Maranello check that out.
I will also talk to a dealer in regards to the Q System, I'm curious about that.

I'm a member of the club but I don't make it to too many events unfortunately. I will bring to 156 on a EMR as soon as I get a chance.

Alan

PS. GTV6 didn't start yesterday morning, first time in 2 years it has failed me. My 11 year old son said to me 'its jealous'.