[TheMattPraha]

Hi All - what's the general concensus on the 147 petrol or diesel?

On my commute i'll hit about 5-10mins of freeway driving, would this be enough to opt for the diesel and look after the EGR valve?

 

[Gussiegtv]

Having driven both the diesel and Petrol versions, unless you are really concerned about the fuel consumption then the petrols (especially the two litre twin spark) are much nicer. Their willingness to rev and refinement compared with the diesel is very noticeable as is the linear nature of the power delivery. The diesel is much more peeky and feels comparatively reluctant to pick up especially from low revs. Apologies to anyone who has a diesel 147 at this point! The handling is better too due to the reduced weight over the nose. You will need to keep an eye on the oil level though as they use quite a bit. If looked after.

 

[AussieAlex]

Whats your annual mileage?

Unless your doing around 12k miles or more per year then petrol is the way to go.

Also how long is your average commute? 5-10 mins of freeway driving + how many town/city?

Diesels really only make sense if you're covering a lot of miles regularly. I work on the rule of thumb of 20k km (~12k miles) per year or more then diesel. Otherwise grab the 2L twinny and enjoy it! Its a cracking engine!

The diesels are cracking engines too but obviously have the usual pitfalls of any diesel motor. So assess your mileage and then go and test drive both variants and choose the one that suits your needs and driving style :thumbup:

 

[scottyf]

Go drive them and form your own opinion.

All have their merits pro's and con's.

I personally prefer petrols. But diesels have their place. The Fiat/Alfa group diesel is a very good unit though. But you do have added complexity.

As a drivers car the petrols win in my book hands down.
However living with every day the diesel maybe better.