The Alfa Romeo 156 was not just ‘another car’ from the Italian automaker. It was a statement of intent that redefined Alfa Romeo’s presence in South Africa.
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The Alfa Romeo 156 entered the South African market in 1998. This was a period when the country’s automotive landscape was ripe for a stylish and performance-oriented sedan, and Alfa Romeo seized the opportunity. The 156 was designed to compete in the fiercely competitive compact executive segment, challenging the likes of the BMW 3 Series and the Audi A4.
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The Alfa Romeo 156 was a breath of fresh air with its stunning design, penned by the renowned Italian designer Walter de Silva. Its sleek, coupé-like silhouette, hidden rear door handles, and distinctive front grille immediately set it apart from its more conservatively styled rivals. Inside, the 156 continued to impress with a driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, and a blend of traditional and modern elements. The dashboard was angled towards the driver, and the use of aluminium and leather added to the premium feel.
Alex Shahini, CAR’s Digital Editor, has owned a 156 for 11 years and recalls his time with the 2.0 Twin Spark:
“Being part of track days and breakfast runs fostered my involvement into car culture. Having seen the car as a child, I remember thinking it was so beautiful that I one day wanted to drive and own one. Generally speaking, if maintained and cared for correctly, these cars don’t give many more issues than other rivals from the era. Service history with reputable workshops is critical. Being young and inquisitive, I endeavoured to learn how to do basic maintenance on the car, like oil changes and general servicing.”
The 156 was more than just a new model for Alfa Romeo; it was a statement of intent. After a period of relative obscurity, the 156 heralded Alfa Romeo’s return to form. It garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including the prestigious European Car of the Year in 1998, and the title of South African Car of the Year in 1999. For the South African market, the 156 was pivotal in re-establishing Alfa Romeo’s reputation for creating cars that were not only beautiful to look at but also exhilarating to drive.
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A rundown on the Alfa Romeo 156
Upon its launch, the Alfa Romeo 156 was offered with several engines. Among the most notable was the ubiquitous 2.0-litre Twin Spark choice, which quickly became a favourite for its spirited performance. This naturally aspirated engine, renowned for its dual spark plug technology, produced 114 kW and 187 N.m of torque which for the time was stellar.
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For those seeking more power, the Alfa Romeo 156 also came with a 2.5-litre Busso V6 engine that exemplified the brand’s commitment to performance. This engine, part of the legendary Alfa V6 lineage, generated a robust 141 kW and 222 N.m of torque. The thrill of the V6 was accompanied by a sonorous exhaust note that appealed to the senses of driving enthusiasts.
Upping the ante, there was another Busso option to choose from, displacing 3.2-litres and found in the 156 GTA. In this scenario, the lightweight sedan (by today’s standards) offering a thunderous 184 kW @ 6 200 r/min and 300 N.m @ 4 800 r/min. The V6 models were mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox versus the 5-speed in the rest of the range.
In addition to these petrol engines, Alfa Romeo catered to the growing demand for diesel engines with the introduction of the 2.4-litre inline five-cylinder diesel mill. This turbocharged unit was appreciated for its blend of performance and efficiency, producing 110 kW and 305 N.m of torque.
Complementing the manual gearboxes for the local market was a Selespeed automated manual transmission. While not as engaging as the manual, the ‘box was lauded for its smooth and effortless shifts, making it an ideal choice for urban driving and long-distance cruising. Alfa Romeo equipped the 156 with several technological innovations that were ahead of its time. The car featured a double-wishbone front suspension, offering handling and ride comfort that is still praised more than 20 years later.
Things to look out for when buying a used Alfa Romeo 156
One of the most common issues reported by South African owners is related to the car’s electrical system. The Alfa Romeo 156 is notorious for its temperamental electronics, which can manifest as faulty sensors, erratic dashboard lights, and malfunctioning windows or central locking systems. These problems can often be traced to poor grounding or corrosion in the connectors.
The Alfa Romeo 156’s sporty handling comes at a cost: the suspension components, particularly the front wishbones and rear trailing arms, are prone to wear and tear. This can lead to knocking noises, uneven tyre wear, and a generally uncomfortable ride. Notably, replacing these parts can be expensive.
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The 156’s engines, while praised for their performance and character, also have their own set of issues. The Twin Spark engines are known for their timing belt problems, and a snapped belt can cause significant engine damage. Alfa Romeo recommends replacing the timing belt every 60 000 km, but many experts suggest doing it even sooner as a precaution. Additionally, the V6 engines, though more robust, can suffer from oil leaks and require diligent maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
Regardless, the 156’s driving dynamics are another major draw as it is often described as a true driver’s car, offering a level of engagement and feedback that is increasingly rare in modern vehicles. The balance and poise of its chassis, combined with its responsive engines, make for a thrilling driving experience.
Which one to get?
When contemplating the purchase of a used Alfa Romeo 156 in South Africa, the decision can be daunting given the array of available models and special editions. However, among the various options, one derivative stands out as the quintessential choice for enthusiasts and practical buyers alike: the Alfa Romeo 156 2.5 V6. This model not only encapsulates the brand’s storied heritage while offering a compelling blend of performance, style, and (fair) reliability.
The Alfa Romeo 156 2.5 V6 is revered for its spirited performance and thrilling driving experience that is quintessentially Alfa. The distinctively Alfa Romeo exhaust note further enhances the driving pleasure, adding an aural delight that is music to the ears of any car enthusiast.
While the standard 2.5 V6 model is a fantastic choice, those looking for something a bit more exclusive might consider the special edition Alfa Romeo 156 GTA. The GTA variant, with its 3.2-litre V6 engine, offers an even more exhilarating driving experience albeit at a greater cost. Its enhanced performance, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling cues set it apart as a collector’s item. However, the rarity and higher maintenance costs of the GTA might make it less practical for everyday use compared to the standard 2.5 V6 model.
The Alfa Romeo 156’s introduction to the South African market was a significant event that redefined the brand’s presence in the country. Its stunning design, advanced technology, and exceptional driving dynamics have cemented its place in automotive history. For aficionados, the 156 is more than just a car; it is a symbol of Alfa Romeo’s enduring commitment to creating vehicles that stir the soul and ignite the passion for driving.
