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| Road Test: Alfa Romeo 156 (2002-2003) |
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| Large Family |
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| DRIVING RATING: |
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The 156's driving position is miles better than that of Alfas of old, but it still favours those with short legs and long arms, despite a fully-adjustable steering wheel and driver's seat. At just over two turns between locks, the rack and pinion steering is very direct - though the turning circle is long-winded. A light clutch and a direct but long-throw gearlever make for easy cog-swapping, but engage reverse and you'll find that both the saloon and Sportwagon estate have restricted rearward visibility. Oh yes. Central to the 156's character are its engaging on-road dynamics. It simply begs to be driven enthusiastically. The engines are pivotal here. All engines from the entry level 120 bhp 1.6-litre through to the blistering 250 bhp 3.2-litre V6 deliver their power with such refinement and willingness that extending the engine becomes an integral part of the driving experience. Even the 2.4-litre JTD turbo-diesel sounds good, its off-beat five-cylinder engine sounding more Audi ur-quattro than Massey Ferguson. The chassis plays its part too. The 156 may be front-wheel drive and, for keen drivers, lack the handling purity of a rear-wheel drive car, but the 156 is still a thoroughly entertaining steer. The ultra-direct steering and pointy front end make threading the 156 through a series of corners a delight. The GTA treatment simply magnifies these qualities threefold and plumbs the driver directly onto the road. Fabulous.
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Introduction As any ageing Hollywood starlet will testify, a nip here and a tuck th... |
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