Category: Small Family 
Price Range: £14,950 to £17,850
Handsome, individual styling now tidier after facelift, engines sound and feel sporty, fun to drive, good value.
Past reliability questionable especially with Selespeed transmission, ride fidgety without Comfort option, average safety performance, poor rear vision.
One of the most characterful cars in the class, but a purchase more of the heart than the head.
The 147 holds its value better than small Alfas of old, but frankly, that isn't saying much. Against modern competition the 147 is a little disappointing in this respect, especially considering it is an upmarket model - such animals tend to hold their value better. Instead, it's on a par with the Ford Focus - which makes it average - and well adrift of the Audi A3 and BMW Compact.
The 147 makes an interesting used buy, though that may not be the word you use if it keeps giving trouble. And that's the problem with buying a second-hand 147 - it may be reliable and niggle-free, but equally it may not. Best try to buy with the balance of the maker's three-year warranty or a watertight dealer warranty. Reliability apart, the 147 makes an attractive, practical and endearing used buy. It 147 looks great, drives well and has enough power for all but the most dedicated speed freaks.
Latest Readers' Drives About the Alfa Romeo 147
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