With any brand of automobile, we find that there are always certain models that the enthusiasts just can't seem to embrace. Think along the lines of the BMW X4, for example. In the Alfa Romeo lineup, we would offer the 145 as an example of an unloveable model. And yet, while visiting some Alfa Romeo transaxle car enthusiasts in Germany, we were surprised to find that they were fans and owners of the 145, citing its performance as a daily driver.
These 3-door Alfa hatchbacks were the work of American Chris Bangle during his tenure at Centro Stile Fiat. We see what he was going for, but don't expect one of these to garner compliments at the gas pump. This example is painted in a color similar to BMW's Phoenixgelb, and really doubles down when it comes to acquired taste.
Year: 1999
Model: Alfa Romeo 146 1.6 Twin Spark
Engine: 1.6L 4-cylinder
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 63,000 km
Price: 1,500 Euro
Location: Erfurt, Germany
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 1.6 Twin Spark
Ein sparsamer Stadtflitzer mit 120 PS und realistischen 63000 Km Tachostand. TÜV-bereit. Vor kurzem erneuert - Kat, Auspuff ab Kat, Bremsen hinten, Kupplungsgeberzylinder, Hydrostößeln, Nockenwellesteller (WANOS). Motor schnurrt wie die Katze, Getriebe OK, Karosse OK, Klima muss gefüllt werden. Winterreifen mit 7 mm Profil auf originalen Alfa-Alufelgen 15", dazu gebe ich noch 3 Ganzjahresreifen mit noch 6 mm Profil.
Die Airbag-Lampe leuchtet nach der Abziehung von Steckker während Reparaturarbeiten, ich habe das notwendige Kabel zum Fehlerlöschen, fehlt nur die Zeit und Software. Kann ich aber nach Absprache machen. Das Auto steht für eine Probefahrt auf einem Betriebsgelände in Erfurt bereit.
In comparison to the 8-valve Twin Spark engines found in the Alfa Romeo Milano and other Alfas, the 16-valve Twin Spark engines were Fiat-based, consisting of an iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. Only four coil packs are required to fire the 8 spark plugs, so no need to worry about financial distress from chasing dead coil packs all of the time. The seller claims that recent service has been performed, including replacement of the cat and exhaust, as well as service to the variable camshaft timing system.
This 1999 model is too new to import to the United States under a 25-year exemption, but gives a good idea of what is soon to come due for importation. If you're willing to shop pre-facelift models, it's possible to import a 1994-1996 model. For around $1,800 before importation fees, we are intrigued. Keep in mind that despite the diminutive footprint, the 145 was positioned closer to a VW Golf than to an economy car. That means that the 145 will likely impress when it comes to driver comfort, features, and general driving dynamics. Used Alfa Romeos have notoriously terrible resale values in Germany, so why not take advantage of that dynamic to drive something interesting in the US?
-Graham
