Can I test drive your 147 GTA?

I'm looking for a (black) 147 GTA (2003/4) but so far not even managed to test drive one

Other than reading about them, I've no idea how they go or whether the torque steer really is 'that' bad.

Anyone out there willing to let me have a mild go in theirs? Accompanied of course and my insurance would cover me... I'm in South East England, so anywhere an hour from, say Guildford, is good. Hope this isn't regarded as too cheeky

I'd like to chat to a few owners in person too, so let me know if you have half an hour free one weekend.

I have a 156 GTA in Sutton....

Surely better and easier to just find a nearby Alfa dealer with one in stock and test drive that?

yep go to a dealer. Believe me, GTAs are not selling quick these days and thats a trend very likely to continue. A dealer will be more than happy for you to drive his. Good time to buy too for the same reasons. Before you get into one and fall in love (cause you will), make sure you know that the fuel consumption is quite high, the road tax doubles next year and the insurance wont be cheap.
Mechanically, if you are looking at a 03/04 model, it may need belts and plugs doing which will set you back £600-£700 and other bits and bobs so dont be surprised to dish out £1k after buying one. Does it have the smaller 305 brakes and if so does that bother you? Upgrading to 330 is going to cost a lot!
Still want one? Good. They are fabulous cars.

This is how mine makes me feel ----->

Already in love! And yes, fully prepared (psychologically at least) for the high running costs. Tried the dealers too, but not much within 100 miles of my place... Though I've just noticed Allams of Epsom have one - will give them a try at the weekend.

Re. the 330 brakes: Excuse my ignorance, but is this disc size you're referring to? I assume the 305s were standard? Is the expensive worth it in terms of stopping power for the 330s...?

305mm are ok but have a tendancy to warp... cars after November 2003 had the 330 upgrade as standard. Many people have also got the 305's upgraded to 330 under warranty.... Best try and get the 330's where possible.

And yes 305/330mm is the disc size.

Originally Posted by OperationAlfa

And yes 305/330mm is the disc size.

The calipers are both Brembo 4-pot calipers, but are different. The 330mm calipers are slightly bigger. Obviously the 330mm calipers also take pads with a larger surface area.

Black & White Garage near Newbury have a black 147 GTA for sale. I would try them. They are Alfa specialists and if that one's a bit pricey for you I'm sure they can keep a look out. They are real Ala enthusiasts.

Cheers,

Nigel

Thanks Nigel, but I think the black GTA which B&W are advertising has been sold. Shame, as it looks awesome

Good to hear your endorsement for B&W too as they will be my nearest garage (I actually got chatting to the owner at Brooklands' Italian Car Day the other weekend...) and will definitely be using them for servicing, etc. Anyone out there had experience of using them?

When I had my old 156 Sportwagon I used to take it to Veloces in North London, who I'm not sure I would recommend...

Originally Posted by Wonderwall

Veloces

$$$


But I am told they are very good. I know a few people that have bought cars from them in immaculate condition.

Originally Posted by OperationAlfa

I know a few people that have bought cars from them in immaculate condition.

Yep - my GTA came from Veloces and, though I probably paid over the odds, I can't argue with the quality of the car.

I am also looking to buy a 147 gta, but there just isnt any near me (carlisle, cumbria) only seen one on the road.. been looking regularly on the net and nearest ones seem to be at least 100 miles away boo hoo

Originally Posted by Wonderwall

Thanks Nigel, but I think the black GTA which B&W are advertising has been sold. Shame, as it looks awesome

Good to hear your endorsement for B&W too as they will be my nearest garage (I actually got chatting to the owner at Brooklands' Italian Car Day the other weekend...) and will definitely be using them for servicing, etc. Anyone out there had experience of using them?

When I had my old 156 Sportwagon I used to take it to Veloces in North London, who I'm not sure I would recommend...

I haven't used B&W myself for many years (but had a good experience in the past when I did), but they are generally well regarded in Alfa circles.

Keep looking!

Cheers,

Nigel

I bought my GTA from B&W. Paid slightly over the odds, but negotiated a small discount and the car is superb. I haven't used them for servicing yet, but have heard good things - they're quite expensive, but know the cars inside out.

If you've never driven a GTA I'd recommend getting yourself along there and trying one of their 156 GTAs. It'll give you a taste of the GTA experience, and you might actually prefer the 156! I started out with my heart set on a 147, but changed my mind when I compared the cars in the metal.

I was also impressed by B&W when I was looing for my 147 GTA - they had two black ones there at the time six months ago. One I know was sold and the other may be so. Didn't buy there in the end but would be confident to do so.

Test drive booked for tomorrow morning

Wife thinks I'm buying a little run about, so 156 gonna be too big

Originally Posted by Wonderwall

Test drive booked for tomorrow morning

Wife thinks I'm buying a little run about, so 156 gonna be too big

Big = Stage Road Presence

I think the 156 handles better than the 147 too. (Sorry 147 owners.)

And they are cheaper!

Originally Posted by Wonderwall

Wife thinks I'm buying a little run about, so 156 gonna be too big

Not much in it, is there? They're based on the same floorplan, after all, and it really shrinks around you as you drive. I was surprised by my switch to the 156, but I preferred the centre console and rear seat space, and it seemed... posher, somehow. More solid.

Yes I agree, the 156 gta is the better handler. I've owned both and as much as it pains me to say it, my current 147 gta is not as sharp on turns or bends as the 156 gta. My particular gripe with the 147 gta is the bottoming out on uneven road surfaces. Fast driving on such roads can cause it to loose some composure. However, there isnt a huge difference between the two models.
Bottom line though is that both are very impressive cars to drive. Its not all about handling of course and both cars deliver a fantastic all-round driving experience. So nice to drive something as special as a GTA.
Looks wise, the 147 gta steals the show everytime imo. I dont know of any other modern hatch that looks as aggressive and as stylish at the same time!

Originally Posted by ohwell

So nice to drive something as special as a GTA.
Looks wise, the 147 gta steals the show everytime imo. I dont know of any other modern hatch that looks as aggressive and as stylish at the same time!

I love the look of the 147, just compare it to a standard 147 and you see just how different it is.

Easily the best looks hot hatch.. period.

Dont upset me joe ha ha