Alfa Romeo 156 GTA Sportswagon Review - Could I Ever Trust Another Alfa? (My Next Daily Pt. 1)

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  • Опубликовано: 3 май 2021
  • My BMW 130i is soon to be gone, and so the hunt begins for my new daily driver. I've got a long list of often conflicting requirements so in this video I am going to be talking about what I am looking for in a car, and where the Alfa 156 fits my needs, but also where it fails.
    #AlfaRomeo #156 #GTA
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Комментарии • 829

  • @Fee.1
    @Fee.1 3 года назад +158

    A boy and an epic battle of head vs. heart vs wallet.

    • @Classic_Vinyl_Only
      @Classic_Vinyl_Only 3 года назад +4

      Can be worse than the lambo purchase surely 😂

    • @salvofarnia8046
      @salvofarnia8046 3 года назад +5

      Had same car for 8 years never missed a beat, 2.0 ltr twinspark engine.
      Replace with a black 159 ti 5 years in and all good

    • @lillexus5589
      @lillexus5589 3 года назад +5

      @@salvofarnia8046 some people owned Jaguars and Range Rovers without major problems. Being that lucky is not something you can count on beforehand.

    • @noeldakota7395
      @noeldakota7395 3 года назад

      Dont know if you guys gives a shit but if you are stoned like me during the covid times then you can watch all the new movies and series on InstaFlixxer. I've been binge watching with my gf lately xD

    • @kelvinameer8678
      @kelvinameer8678 3 года назад

      @Noel Dakota yup, I've been watching on InstaFlixxer for since november myself :)

  • @vibingwithvinyl
    @vibingwithvinyl 3 года назад +193

    I am going to miss cars like this. They feel almost like living beings, whereas electric cars feel like appliances. Very fast and totally potent daily drivers, but appliances nonetheless.

    • @mudskipper0075
      @mudskipper0075 3 года назад +7

      Me too ,when everything is electric surely the cars won’t have any identity they will all pretty much use the same motor ,I know there is a lot of sharing at the moment but with engines and components but it’ll be like buying a washing machine....

    • @klemenkekec7034
      @klemenkekec7034 3 года назад +16

      but you still cannot go around the fact that they'll be all the same because they are basically perfect. you have all the power all the time, perfect control over it, 1 moving part, 10x the efficiency and in 10 years time probably 10% of the maintenance cost, low center of gravity, easily achievable 50/50 weight distribution, way more space, silence, no vibration, no fumes, and on and on and on. basically all the things cars were trying to achieve for 130 years and now we are there, we do not like it. its weird.
      BUT! I don't think the electric powertrain is the problem here. I'd like to see a RWD 300 hp low weight electric car with no ESP, ABS, BAS and all that nonsense, put a hydraulic power steering in it and aggressive suspension. trust me, that would feel like a living thing to every petrolhead

    • @pannonianbrute
      @pannonianbrute 3 года назад +1

      That’s what every Alfa 75 owner said when the 155 came out, and the 75 itself was like an appliance next to an early GTV or Sprint.
      In reality, every car has gone softer ever since you no longer need to risk a broken arm when starting the engine.
      I strongly feel though that parallel to mainstream consumer car development, as long as there is demand, there will always be a supply of analog driver’s cars for us nutters. The rules of capitalism would imply that, at least.

    • @peterorigenes4358
      @peterorigenes4358 3 года назад +1

      As an Alfa person in the US wish I had the option of getting one of these. The 159 estate is gorgeous but would not want the GM-derived engine in that car. 164 just too old but a huge boot. FWD would not bother me for a daily if I had a Ferrari and Lamborghini in the drive. I daily a Stelvio 2.0, wonderful, with a 4c and classic gtv6 even better. Too bad no Guilia wagon. Used Stelvios in the US are an incredible bargain.

    • @klemenkekec7034
      @klemenkekec7034 3 года назад

      @Bercilak de hautdesert not after but IN ten years. now new electric cars still have its "baby problems" as it is a new tech, but once things are sorted out and mainstream there should be very little problems. when tesla made model s in 2012 they were experimenting with it, they had no experience with batteries but those cars are mostly still going strong. and as time goes by batteries will get better.
      and for that £7000...you get that back very fast if you take into account how cheap a mile is compared to a petrol car and you have no maintenance on drivetrain.
      please do not get me wrong. I am a petrolhead, I enjoy a good petrol engine but if you look at facts, EVs are far better in pretty much every way, a few years must pass so that we get the infrastructure and more cars to choose from.

  • @elnyoutube123
    @elnyoutube123 3 года назад +25

    The sound of the V6 rumbling around while you're just driving around slowly is enough of an excuse to buy one for me lol

  • @roshangomez
    @roshangomez 3 года назад +34

    Had two 2.5 v6 156 , one with more than 250,000 kms on the odo, one of the best cars I have driven. Busso ftw

  • @crazehayes1
    @crazehayes1 3 года назад +40

    Beautiful timeless styling. This wagon is probably it's finest form too.

    • @salvofarnia8046
      @salvofarnia8046 3 года назад +3

      Had my red sportwagon for 8 years and still miss it today.
      Got a 159 ti had for 5 years but the 156 was more fun

  • @rudfil
    @rudfil 3 года назад +46

    What a hot looking estate wagon, it’s looks will last forever.

    • @salvofarnia8046
      @salvofarnia8046 3 года назад +3

      Sold mine at 14 years old, no rust on body or underside.

    • @salvofarnia8046
      @salvofarnia8046 3 года назад +3

      And that 2.0 ltr twinspart vvt was a gem

    • @gunnargeroy8406
      @gunnargeroy8406 3 года назад

      Too bad the rest of it won’t

    • @rudfil
      @rudfil 3 года назад +4

      @@gunnargeroy8406 it will if you take care of it...: )

  • @timhancock6626
    @timhancock6626 3 года назад +42

    I ran five Alfa's over 20 years and had one breakdown. The last was a 156 Sportwagon 2.4 jtd which we drove over 130,000 miles. It was brilliant in every way..and 50mpg. It didn't cost that much to maintain. Bad Alfas are usually the badly maintained ones.

    • @emilz85
      @emilz85 9 месяцев назад +1

      Just like with most brands. Most of the people spreading horror stories about Alfas are people who have never owned one. Bought my first Alfa, 159 TI 2.4, half a year ago, and I love it. Yes, it is not as though out or practical as a VW or Volvo, but puts a smile on my face every time I see it again.

    • @MG-ce3dx
      @MG-ce3dx 7 месяцев назад +2

      Lol statistics say otherwise.. I work in a service in UK .
      Japanese petrol cars ,come there just for regular service ,Alfa's come there with the most pathetic, embarrassing and stupid problems you'll ever see on a car 😂😂

    • @emilz85
      @emilz85 7 месяцев назад

      @@MG-ce3dx not all Alfas are the same, perhaps older ones have more issues than newer models, t will be a year in January since I have my 159, and nothing embarrassing apart from regular old car problems. Anyhow, you can't measure emotions in an excel spreadsheet - I'd rather own a car that's a joy to drive and to look at.

    • @user-jm4ij6qd7w
      @user-jm4ij6qd7w 5 месяцев назад +1

      @@MG-ce3dx Please be more specific. What are these embarrassing, pathetic problems?

    • @user-jm4ij6qd7w
      @user-jm4ij6qd7w 3 месяца назад

      @MG-ce3dx What service is that then? And what issues on a car can be embarrassing? They either work fine or they have issues. All makes have issues. I've had 9 Alfas since 1999 and can HONESTLY say zero embarrassing issues. Worst thing to happen was a faulty ignition barrel that required a new steering column under warranty. BUT I looked after them and didn't cheap out by taking them to mechanics who know nothing about them.

  • @wings9925
    @wings9925 3 года назад +14

    I'd almost forgotten just how wonderful the Alfa 6 pot engine was back in the day. So characterful

  • @irvings159
    @irvings159 3 года назад +82

    Absolutely love the 156 GTA, prices are hiking up all the time for a clean one. If you're after an estate I suggest a Volvo 850R 👍

    • @conorhughes4910
      @conorhughes4910 3 года назад +2

      Should have read your comment before posting mine. Good shout.

    • @aaronmastrogiacomo6078
      @aaronmastrogiacomo6078 3 года назад +3

      If not a 156 GTA, the 850R would be my second choice.

    • @girtsberzins2970
      @girtsberzins2970 3 года назад +3

      Volvo 960/V90 Estate 3,0 would be better choice, RWD and LSD aviable... Bigest boot in class.

    • @JD-eo7dr
      @JD-eo7dr 3 года назад

      @@girtsberzins2970 you never see them big Volvo's in the UK quite a few stretch limo ones

    • @Rhowhat
      @Rhowhat 3 года назад

      I think some decent 850R's are going over from Japan pretty regularly.

  • @rezaq1
    @rezaq1 3 года назад +15

    My Italian friend still has his red 156 GTA which his dad owned from new. 50k or so, and absolutely immaculate. It must be the best one left. Literally picture perfect.

    • @dylanwakley2553
      @dylanwakley2553 Год назад

      One recently sold with some 12k miles, there will always be a nicer one

  • @martinboulden3540
    @martinboulden3540 3 года назад +23

    Imagine collecting one of these brand new back in the day !

    • @user-jm4ij6qd7w
      @user-jm4ij6qd7w 3 месяца назад

      I did! Massive smile on my face for weeks. Felt like a really special car. Kept it for 13 years 😊

  • @costasfasoulopoulos5355
    @costasfasoulopoulos5355 3 года назад +38

    I would take the risk. It is almost impossible to find a decent GTA nowadays.

    • @user-jm4ij6qd7w
      @user-jm4ij6qd7w 5 месяцев назад +2

      No, it's easy to find a decent one, but you have to PAY for it. Most people think Alfas are cheap sheds ... the crap ones are cheap, the good ones are expensive!

    • @user-jm4ij6qd7w
      @user-jm4ij6qd7w 3 месяца назад

      Very true.

  • @richiesorge5099
    @richiesorge5099 3 года назад +40

    In Busso we trust!

    • @salvofarnia8046
      @salvofarnia8046 3 года назад +1

      Your loss

    • @DjDolHaus86
      @DjDolHaus86 3 года назад

      I have as much trust in a Busso as I do in Boris

    • @johnphaceas7434
      @johnphaceas7434 3 года назад +5

      @@DjDolHaus86 And i bet you have never owned one. I've had two, my current one is 22yo and has over 180,000km - I've owned it five years, and it has never left me stranded.

  • @autosportivobedford
    @autosportivobedford 3 года назад +13

    Love the 156 Gta. I regret selling mine. I have have had my 147 Gta for 12 years now and I still think the 156 Gta drives and feels better.

  • @eothawne7833
    @eothawne7833 3 года назад

    Hey, i just found your channel while I was searching for some early 00's Mercs videos and I love it. Car taste-wise we share a lot of common things 😊. Subscribed.

  • @CPadsSkies
    @CPadsSkies 3 года назад +6

    I had no idea how much I wanted one of these until I watched this!

  • @SilliusSodus
    @SilliusSodus 3 года назад +10

    Alfa content + getting decent results from my uni essay today = a fantastic day. Thanks for all the hard work James.
    P.S. WRX WAGON ALL D WAY

  • @simonk337
    @simonk337 3 года назад +2

    Will have to watch this in a bit. I owned a saloon between 08-12 and it's still my favourite car I've ever owned. I loved it. Still miss it 9 years later 😢

  • @aleksandarbogicevic5946
    @aleksandarbogicevic5946 3 года назад +6

    My man Jay saying that a 2003 Alfa is old while I'm here having a 2003 Alfa and being happy its the newest car I've ever owned.
    of course the fact that i despise everything made after 00 doesn't help my case.
    superb video as always

  • @markantonio1673
    @markantonio1673 3 года назад +8

    First video in a while I jumped to the end after 15 minutes. Felt you were waffling on a bit. Just giving feedback and keep up the good work. Cars to consider - Range Rover Sport, BMW 540i, E63 AMG, perhaps the fast Jag estate (Sportback?). Maybe an older Porsche Cayenne?

  • @MetalHead1904
    @MetalHead1904 3 года назад +5

    I love these, especially in sportswagon form!

  • @davidmwood560
    @davidmwood560 4 месяца назад +1

    I bought a 156 Sportwagon, 2 litre twin spark as a stop-gap. I needed a wagon and was awaiting the imminent arrival of a Volvo 850 T5.
    I kept that car for 2 years! It was, quite simply, magnificent! It loved to tev, really rev: start it up, let it warm a bit; then depress the clutch...into 1st and floor it until the valves came out and danced a tango on the bonnet, then 2nd, and so on - until some grandpa in a Jag got in the way. Drop a cog, hit those Fiamme horns, and leave him in the dust!
    It's absolutely true when they say: "You can't be a petrolhead until you've loved an Alfa!"

  • @philipkennard6603
    @philipkennard6603 3 года назад +7

    I loved my GTA Sportwagon - sounded fantastic with upgraded intake.

  • @balutvm2008
    @balutvm2008 3 года назад +2

    Thank you James for 156 GTA review, much awaited one. I own a 2L Twin spark manual, really like the engine sound and overall driving feel but reliability is a weak point. Anyways, possible upgrade should be a 2.5 v6 and according to my mechanic, its a more sensible choice than a GTA. Suggestions for wagons, yes Subaru's and SAAB 9-3s?

  • @johnphaceas7434
    @johnphaceas7434 3 года назад +5

    Any V6 156 is simply better than the 159 - lighter, more agile, better looking, and of course it has a proper Alfa Busso engine.

  • @richardcarter1000
    @richardcarter1000 3 года назад +35

    Alfas are all about passion. I've had four. The most unreliable car I ever had was also one of my favorites. An 85 GTV6. I also ran a 71 Spider for 10 years with no real problems and did 150k miles in a 75ts with few issues. I'd buy that GTA.

    • @bicyclist2
      @bicyclist2 3 года назад

      The GTV6 and 75 (Milano in the US) are my favorite Alfa's.

    • @ckm-mkc
      @ckm-mkc 3 года назад

      I had a GTV6 for a while, it was pretty reliable, although you did have to poke the fuse box every once & while. Of course, I don't remember getting everything working. AC never worked, for example. Not particularly fast, but the sound was amazing. Would love to find a nice 75, probably never will. Had a 155 for a while, great car, very fun to drive.

    • @LOTPOR0402
      @LOTPOR0402 3 года назад +2

      Rubbish the modern ones are reliable ,and old no worse than anything else

  • @Mexxx65
    @Mexxx65 3 года назад +8

    2nd Podium position! Bellissma Busso!! Nice shade of red anyway James..

  • @themanipulator1
    @themanipulator1 3 года назад

    Fantastic video, I love hearing you chat cars as you really share alot of my opinions.
    I still think you should Go with the lexus ls 600h

  • @grahamnutt8958
    @grahamnutt8958 3 года назад +2

    Absolutely loving the content.
    Just to throw something into the mix here.....
    Would you consider a Classic? If you are prepared to go for a rare, albeit 3 door, estate then Reliant Scimitar might be worth a look.
    I've seen several advertised from about £5000..... just a thought 🤔

  • @ncmartinez_his
    @ncmartinez_his 3 года назад +1

    I rented one of these back in 2003 in Calais and drove around Normandy and Paris in this with four passengers. A little tight, but it was a delight to drive.

  • @mpersad
    @mpersad 3 года назад

    "But for that money I could have one of these..." Oh man! How many of your subs have said that to themselves? Terrific video, really can't wait to see what you plump for!

  • @kelvinmatthews2405
    @kelvinmatthews2405 3 года назад

    You are awesome brother! I like the way when you describe the car you always say that is my opinion yours might be different. What do you think? You never try to force feed your info. Keep up the great work.

  • @nickmatthews4939
    @nickmatthews4939 3 года назад

    This video brings back memories. I had one of these as a company car. I loved it, however as an estate car, it was no load carier, the rear suspension bushes needed replacing regularly. I also owned a Alfa 75 V6 with the same engine ..... much more fun. Another 👍🏻s up from me.

  • @eugenetan2974
    @eugenetan2974 3 года назад

    I no longer watch car reviews but your reviews made me missed my Alfas. Used to own one 156JTS and GT JTS.

  • @paulgaida2601
    @paulgaida2601 3 года назад

    I had a 156 Twin Spark 2.0 Selespeed as a daily for 100,000 miles. Then the actuator went-had to go. Beautiful to look at, cheap interior and a nice size. Hope you find something really nice James!

  • @Gorbyrev
    @Gorbyrev 3 года назад +4

    Lovely GTA and I have such a soft spot for the Busso, but a Spec-B Legacy Estate would be a joy. Think of it like a 911 Carrera 4 backwards. You can get single DIN Android Auto head units as well as double DIN units.

  • @Watty101
    @Watty101 3 года назад

    I had one of these back in the day, in this colour red too. Gorgeous looks that attracted comments from everywhere. A thoroughly enjoyable drive but I just couldn’t put up with the reliability issues... I still have the rev counter somewhere that I used to carry in the boot as they were prone to failure and would leave you stranded for some reason...glad I had one...but also just as glad I moved on

  • @shawnmungur4875
    @shawnmungur4875 3 года назад

    @17:30 YOU ARE SO RIGHT! I was out to mail a package and came home with a Lotus once, and never did mail out that package...

  • @RussellMiddleton
    @RussellMiddleton 3 года назад +4

    Active cruise is a gamechanger for long distance cars - recently did an 850 mile day, and not having to continually adjust distance to car in front definitely made it more bearable. Hard part is finding a manual car with that feature - in the US, top spec Golf R and GTIs have it, also Civic Si and F30 3-series (tho rare). Not sure if any of these are interesting enough for the channel tho. Probably more options in the UK.

  • @bicyclist2
    @bicyclist2 3 года назад +1

    I love the Alfa content. We didn't get any of these in the US or any Alfa for that matter for decades. The only Alfa's we see here in the US is the Gulia and the Stelvio SUV. I hope to get the chance to drive an Alfa some day. Thank you.

  • @niklasnevesrensen885
    @niklasnevesrensen885 3 года назад +1

    Lovely video, with a lovely car!
    How about taking a look at the Honda Accord Type S (2008-2015) and the Mazda 6 MPS?
    Both are oddball cars, but I believe them both to be rather exciting, granted not with the soundtrack of a Busso V6, or any other 6-cylinder for that matter.

  • @dspirea
    @dspirea 10 месяцев назад

    I’m so happy to have found all this Alfa content as I’m hunting for a cheap Alfa future classic. I’ve learned so much, thank you.

  • @hexodontist1610
    @hexodontist1610 8 месяцев назад

    Awesome. Thx for sharing. Any more details on what was done to the gearbox?

  • @_edgodd
    @_edgodd 3 года назад +1

    i'd love to see it again, but my dad used to have 159 3.2 q4 sportswagon in silver with horseshoe wheels and red leather int. nice car.

  • @wrinx
    @wrinx 4 месяца назад

    I really miss my old 2003 156 3.2 GTA Sportwagon - amazing car - this review doesn't do it justice. Owning is to appreciate.

  • @JMJoubert
    @JMJoubert 3 года назад

    Perfect type of video for me. Thank you.

  • @steng.karlsen2662
    @steng.karlsen2662 3 года назад +1

    Wild card... Opel Omega B1/2 MV6 estate
    Biggest boot you’ll get outside a van. I think quite good looking. Rear wheel drive and LSD as standard and a great interior.

  • @eze8970
    @eze8970 3 года назад +1

    Thanks James! SWB Jaguar XJ for me (hoping you can sort the phone for it!);-
    1) Enough room (?), good interior, newer cars in budget, V6 or V8 versions, diesel or petrol, sun roof, good for distance or odd blat excitement, 5 doors, possibly ok for mpg, rwd.
    2)You are prepared for niggles/issues/gremlins with any car.
    3) You've enjoyed your other Jaguar reviews, & your inner 'Terry Thomas' is waiting to get out......
    4) AM Rapide's still a bit over budget...

  • @marcdelaunay1
    @marcdelaunay1 3 года назад +1

    Lots of these at auto Italia Raby Castke last year and were lovely. And haircut lol👍😂

  • @Whatshisname346
    @Whatshisname346 3 года назад +2

    On your budget, I’d go for a V70 T5 R preferably a dark colour with the ‘David Dickinson’ seats. Sounds good, dependable, good fun, 4wd for winter, very comfortable, economy ..... not terrible. I’ve seen a lot fitted with aftermarket stereos so it’s probably possible to get the setup you want.

  • @miguelfreitas1991
    @miguelfreitas1991 3 года назад +2

    should take a look at the 159 sportwagon Ti 2.4 Q4 ....super rare ,sound lovely for a diesel, goes reasonably well

  • @420Ard
    @420Ard 3 года назад +1

    Great car this GTA! I have owned a 2.0 TS and a 1.9 Jtd, loved both!
    Maybe you could get your hands on a manual Lancia Kappa SW 2.0 20v turbo!

  • @davidlukey5189
    @davidlukey5189 3 года назад +7

    Would love to see you get your hands on a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo Wagon 👌

  • @ez33kiel6
    @ez33kiel6 3 года назад +4

    I love the looks of the 156! The 159 TBi is a great car too and more reliable if that's what you're after, but i think it only came in FWD.

    • @salvofarnia8046
      @salvofarnia8046 3 года назад +1

      Both as reliable as the german crop i know because ive had them all but 156 is more fun than the 159.

  • @96MasterOfPuppets96
    @96MasterOfPuppets96 3 года назад +8

    Have you ever reviewed a Skoda Octavia vRS? If not I'd like to see that at some point, I've heard good things

  • @BMWVX
    @BMWVX Год назад

    Have seen quite a few videos and thought I was subscribed, yet I wasn’t. I am now. Thank you for these videos!
    Also, why not an E39 Alpina B10 or D10? They should be within £20k, no?

  • @markhill8990
    @markhill8990 3 года назад

    Mate had an A6 4.2 v8 fsi
    Dream of a car 130 mph all day long .
    2 ft of snow no problem.
    Proper good tool .
    Suit you a treat !!

  • @josefgordon7712
    @josefgordon7712 3 года назад +1

    I really fell I love with this gen of Alfa styling playing Forza but never knew it came in an estate! Super bonus! Actually looks much better than the hatch. Always more of a fan of 4 doors vs 2. Makes life SO much easier.

  • @boydiedj3718
    @boydiedj3718 3 года назад

    I had one. Saloon. Loved the sound so much. Funny you mentioned the steering lock as that was something I always refer to. 3 point turns are more like 5 point turns lol. I always felt mine was underpowered and coming out of an E36 M3 Evo into one at the time , The M3 had it in its pocket. Then a valve went in it and I bought a second hand valve and had an Alfa specialist fit it and that cost £1400. I sold it shortly after . Was fun while I had it though but mostly for the sound. Personally I’d avoid it .

  • @JDR1971
    @JDR1971 3 года назад

    I'm in the same conundrum. Off to watch Harry talk about the Golf R and Yaris.

  • @trustinflames1022
    @trustinflames1022 3 года назад +1

    Very nice. If you are looking at a possible legacy, have you had a look at a JDM Forester STI?

  • @hdsd4341
    @hdsd4341 3 года назад +3

    Man do I miss this car. Handling, sitting position… I had chipped the 1,9 jtd. Best car I've had
    You only had to include the music from the chassis 🤣😎

  • @ForgetfulFoot
    @ForgetfulFoot 3 года назад +15

    Had a couple of 159s. I have been waiting for a 159 TBI Ti Station wagon to pop up on the market. But they are beyond rare here in Australia. Great daily cars that look amazing inside and out.

    • @downesy68
      @downesy68 3 года назад +1

      I have a 159 ti Sportwagon with the 2.4 diesel and its brilliant. That would be a good option for him. I get my Busso fix from my GT V6 😊

    • @ForgetfulFoot
      @ForgetfulFoot 3 года назад +2

      @@downesy68 Agreed. I havnt had the diesel myself, but I have heard they are a great allrounder. I had a 2.2 JTS Selespeed sedan and then a manual 1750 TBI TI Sedan. Both great cars. But I didn't have the selespeed long enough for something to go wrong luckily. The 1750 TBI TI Sedan was perfect and I wish I kept it.

    • @brianbradford3363
      @brianbradford3363 Год назад

      My 159 TBI Sportswagon was listed for sale on Carsales for 6 months and not many people gave me an offer.
      Are you still looking? Throw me an offer as I will certainly let it go for the right price.
      You won't find them come up for sale because there is only 2 in Australia and I know the other guy in Sydney won't sell. He also has a Maserati MC20, and a Brera amongst other things.

    • @ForgetfulFoot
      @ForgetfulFoot Год назад +1

      @Brian Bradford Ah yeah. I remember seeing it for sale in August last year. Black, 153000kms with lots of modifications. Priced at $32,500.
      I sold my black 2011 sedan 159 tbi ti manual. Stock in immaculate condition with only 30,000kms with timing belt service + tyres just done for $20000.
      Yes yours is the unicorn 159. But honestly. Modifications are cool, but they kinda don't help to sell the car, probably turn the average 159 buyer off more than anything. Fairly high mileage too. But the price stopped me from contacting you. I know there are only a couple TBI wagons. But the max I would probably want to pay for it would be around $15000. And I am a die-hard 159 fan.
      Edit:
      I am interested though. I'm just waiting for my 987.2 Manual Cayman to sell on Carsales first before I commit to another car.

    • @brianbradford3363
      @brianbradford3363 Год назад

      @@ForgetfulFoot The 987.2 is a good car. Good luck with your sale.
      That's it.
      I lowered the price further to 29,9 and there was a bit more interest.
      I agree regarding the modifications.
      Sadly the TBI has particular issues that need to be addressed to make it a reliable car, and my car suffered these maintenance issues shortly after my purchase, so the modifications were done in effect to address its previous flaws and fix and improve them.
      15-20k seems to be the current pricing for examples which haven't had these issues addressed.
      Knowing what I know now after my experience, I wouldn't be comfortable buying a TBI without a list of certain things addressed.
      As I've already sunk the time, frustration and cost to do all of this, I'll hold on to it longer until I'm ready to sell at the lower price which buyers want to pay. The car may have done considerable km but it has been refreshed to near new, and at 15k, I might as well keep it and enjoy the efforts I've put into it. It's now at over 161,000 kilometres and covered multiple interstate trips under my ownership! 🙂
      I've never understood why people see mileage and shy away. I feel it's much more about how he car has been looked after and maintained.

  • @mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420
    @mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420 3 года назад

    I suggest going to a Manheim or BCA auction or two with a budget in mind knowing you want an estate with fsh. Your budget will buy a car with some manufacturer's warranty left. Film some of it for your channel. I've done it more than once and have been delighted at how modern you can go for so little money. You may have to wait for a few weeks because it seems it's currently a sellers' market.

  • @DavidTYoung
    @DavidTYoung 3 года назад

    Well done on your sub count

  • @grahamsopp
    @grahamsopp 3 года назад +1

    excellent point about digital cars with drive by wire and electric handbrakes......a manual handbrake never says NO

  • @vincentpoole7588
    @vincentpoole7588 3 года назад +3

    JayM. Shame one couldn't find the last of the Vauxhall Monaro sportwagons ? Final year of assembly Downunder was 2015 and this would tick all boxes ! V.

  • @mrdaykurutakuchannel
    @mrdaykurutakuchannel 3 года назад +3

    I love the 156, whether it is the sedan or the wagon!!

  • @3ducs
    @3ducs 3 года назад +3

    I saw a real Alfa Romeo GTA on a dealer's lot back in the late 1960s, it was priced around $4,000. I really wanted it but at the time the price was what I made in a year so I bought a 101 series Alfa Sprint for $1,500, a decent first car I think. It taught me a few things about rust.... We were told to not lean on the GTA, it would dent the aluminum body.

  • @richiesorge5099
    @richiesorge5099 3 года назад +4

    May I suggest a E500 W211 Wagon with M273 power unit. A perfect, reliable daily driver with reasonably good performance, plenty of space and one of the best looking German estates ever, IMHO.

    • @user-or3gt6xd6z
      @user-or3gt6xd6z 3 года назад

      That is also what I would suggest. Just a brilliant car. A luxurious interior, great engine. I would also say the facelift model is preferable because it has less electrical issues.

    • @user-or3gt6xd6z
      @user-or3gt6xd6z 3 года назад

      Or maybe a W212, but in my opinion it is not as good as the W211

  • @RickertPos
    @RickertPos 3 года назад +1

    IT's such a nice ride. I enjoy every day with it as my companion

  • @joshamann5921
    @joshamann5921 3 года назад +1

    Subaru Legacy 3.0R Estate, with the 6-speed manual. Sounds amazing, a blast to drive, fast, and safe, and reliable.

  • @sausage_lord
    @sausage_lord 3 года назад

    Hi Jay. Have you considered an Alpina B5/B10 Touring? Rare as hen’s teeth I know, but what a machine! I saw there’s a B10 V8 Touring coming up for sale on Collecting Cars and it looks epic!

  • @iconicon5642
    @iconicon5642 3 года назад +5

    It's a work of Art

  • @simongooden-husbands168
    @simongooden-husbands168 3 года назад +1

    You could look at a Passat R36, a very competent car with around 300bhp and 4wd security plus its built from solid iron. Or if really brave the 4lt W8 would have proper status and is definitely rare enough that you would be known for owning one for sure.

  • @CathodeRayNipplez
    @CathodeRayNipplez 3 года назад +8

    I accidentally bought a 159 Sportswagon recently (long story) and to my surprise it's been awesome!

    • @tylerbaker7761
      @tylerbaker7761 3 года назад +1

      I love mine too. Definitely holding up the Alfa stereotype of unreliability but I still love it every time I get in, which engine did you go for?

    • @CathodeRayNipplez
      @CathodeRayNipplez 3 года назад +3

      @@tylerbaker7761 Well I didn't exactly 'go for' anything. This one has the 1.9D, has 250,000km and is just fine. Not a weapon but has enough grunt to get around road trains here in country Oz. Not a single squeak or rattle and absolutely everything still works - sooooo not living up to the Alfa tradition. I'm really impressed with it.

  • @rockoneal7621
    @rockoneal7621 3 года назад

    JayEmm have you considered a Merc E500, E550 or E55 AMG wagon? I have had many AMG cars with this engine. It is awesome. I am sure there are many aftermarket handling tweaks. The center display can be replaced with an Android touch screen. I love the one in my CL55 Amg... Backup camera is a must! Enjoy trying them. :)

  • @danieleregoli812
    @danieleregoli812 3 года назад +21

    Forget the 159. Even the 3.2. It won't get a pass because it has a GM (Holden) engine, not a Busso.

    • @H5TLR
      @H5TLR Год назад

      the 2.2 JTS is a GM unit too

  • @bundy26
    @bundy26 3 года назад +3

    I wish I could get my hands on one of those wagons here in the states.
    Last year I decided to switch cars. I had a 2011 Buick Regal (your Vauxhall Insignia) for about 6 years and was going to get either an off lease MB C300 or BMW 3 but when I saw the Giulia was in the price range I couldn't say no.
    It has its quirks, the fit and finish is not up to the Germans but the looks and the way it drives makes all that disappear.

  • @kelemenkaban2505
    @kelemenkaban2505 3 года назад +15

    Whenever Jay is complaining, the next cut is showing the exhaust note. Is it a coincidence? :D:D:D

  • @MrGazhay
    @MrGazhay 3 года назад

    My 2 Cents...
    Opt 1 - Volvo V70R awd 2003 onwards
    Opt 2 - Vauxhall Omega estate, fit 2.4 Duratec with ITB’s, LSD, manual, full refresh, colour of choice, boom!
    Anyway, happy deliberating sir!! 🙂

  • @timothyscherer9163
    @timothyscherer9163 3 года назад

    Ford Taunus P7B 20/23M Turnier. Loads of space especially in the back, nobody on the road have them so they are pretty unique especially would be unique in uk since it wasnt sold there. Its got a nice 2/2.3 Köln V6 with a single twin barrel solex carburetor and points ignition with a distributor and its ride is very smooth. Bulletproof car if you maintain it correctly

  • @CarToneHK
    @CarToneHK 3 года назад

    Daily hmm, could work cause you have multiple cars. Sounds wonderful, as good as your more exotic vehicles

  • @JackCarter15
    @JackCarter15 3 года назад +15

    Alpina B3 touring. Next

  • @mantarayal
    @mantarayal 3 года назад

    Hey Jay...you should definitely check out a Skoda OctaviaRS 162KW 2.0...in kiwiland you can get a mint wagon version (which look very cool inside and out and go like a scalded cat) for mid-20s Kiwi dollars. So that would be right in your ballpark. My nephew just bought one and it seriously goes. So well in fact our police force just ordered 500 or so because Holdens are gone. Check one out. Class. Style. Speed. Handling. Practicality. Petrolheadness.

  • @dhuber78
    @dhuber78 3 года назад

    First off love your channel. You mentioned you would like a V8 and some more space. Have you ever considered the VXR R8 Touring? You cannot beat a LS V8 for reliability. I know cars with over 200,000 miles plus with proper maintenance performed that run perfectly like new here in the US.

  • @thomasmitchell6347
    @thomasmitchell6347 3 года назад +1

    That gta looks mint and probably a great buy if thats what you are after. As an alternative how about a audi s4 avant? Or an rs4 for that money.

  • @TheSaint491
    @TheSaint491 3 года назад

    My gt v6 is up for sale, if you want haha. My bet would be on a lexus is200 sportcross. They get the close ratio gearbox and the limited slip diff from the is200 sport, and are a pretty fun thing to blat about

  • @Rhowhat
    @Rhowhat 3 года назад +8

    There's a manual B8 S4 Avant going up for sale soon. Check the Pistonheads thread on them.
    Edit: will be at Fontain an Audi specialist.

    • @Rhowhat
      @Rhowhat 3 года назад +1

      It's up now and bang in the middle of your budget. Manual with sport differential. Rare car!

  • @kasimirdenhertog3516
    @kasimirdenhertog3516 3 года назад +1

    I’ve owned my 156 GTA for six years now. It is a car you can really bond with and as there are a lot of quality aftermarket parts you can tune it very much to your liking. However, it is indeed a very expensive car to run and maintain properly. Your point about space is also true, you cannot compare it to real ‘estate’ cars, it’s more on par with a Golf.

  • @ro63rto
    @ro63rto 3 года назад

    If you do get one, go for a full Wizrd exhaust. You won't regret it. Sounds even better.

  • @CarsByVincent
    @CarsByVincent 3 года назад +1

    I have a 156 myself, and if you want a practical, but more modern alfa, I would really recommend the 159. The 3.2 q4 is way to heavy in my opinion. My father has the TBI version, which has a punchy 1.75 litre turbo I4 with 200hp, tuned to 250hp. The 2.4 Jtdm also comes with the q4 system, if diesel is your cup of tea.

  • @UKfromadrone
    @UKfromadrone 3 года назад +1

    remember your v70/xc70 t5/d5 review? id go with one of them...
    a petrolhead would drive a car like this, because you dont have to worry about it at all, and you can have another car for any other occasion... or somewhere close to this

  • @Anirossa
    @Anirossa 3 года назад

    525ix E34 touring, good size on the chassie, four wheel drive, extremely roomy inside and can load crazy amount of things in it, gaining value and a good quality proper driving machine that has a great ride and timeless nice interior with no screens ;D

  • @theonedave6760
    @theonedave6760 3 года назад +1

    Couple of suggestions, Skoda Superb 280hp L&K, Volvo V70 R or VW Passat R36 estate.

  • @papapetad
    @papapetad 3 года назад

    What about a mid-2000's legacy 3.0r wagon? They look great and have solid drivetrains. Just need some half-decent extractors and an exhaust to bring out the sweet flat 6 tunes. Pretty sure you can get aftermarket faceplates to fit stereo/navi units or there might be a way to integrate hands-free capability to Mark Levinson-equipped models. They're excellent road cars.

  • @user-or3gt6xd6z
    @user-or3gt6xd6z 3 года назад +1

    A great choice would also be a BMW 5-series F10 Touring - 530i, 535i or maybe a 550i

  • @jimmyhallatt
    @jimmyhallatt 3 года назад +3

    Lovely! Just lovely!

  • @chrisp8580
    @chrisp8580 3 года назад

    am using an alfa 156 as my daily right now, electronics in the car can be a real pain but still love it

  • @ItsDanLatham
    @ItsDanLatham 3 года назад +13

    I keep thinking about a 159 Ti wagon. Glorious bit of design. There's something about an alfa. You know its going to be a disaster, but you just have to have it anyway.

    • @leostreat3573
      @leostreat3573 3 года назад +1

      Do it 😉 . Obsessed with my 11 plate wagon .

    • @Frenchmanik
      @Frenchmanik 3 года назад

      I bought one 2 months ago, just noticed last weekend the coolant level is dropping 🤦

    • @leostreat3573
      @leostreat3573 3 года назад +1

      @@Frenchmanik oh dear , yep you have to keep a close eye on everything but a beautiful car to drive and look at .

    • @ItsDanLatham
      @ItsDanLatham 3 года назад

      @@leostreat3573 Thing is I have a saab 9-3 convertible (which I dont use) with the same diesel as the wagon. I know you should really do it properly and buy a v6 but I just know it will go bang within 2 weeks knowing my luck.