Alfa Romeo GTV Saloon 1996 - 2006

Alfa's GTV is a decent car, but has a number of failings. It's good to drive and relatively cheap to buy, but it's fuel consumption figures are likely to keep owners awake at night and it's supremely impractical. Coming with four seats, but in name only, as the rear seats are too small for anyone old enough to attend school. So what you have is a trade off, bargain but expensive to run; great fun to drive but useless for taking your mates to the beach for lost weekends.

The GTV oozes Italian style from the paintwork right down to the gear stick. While it looks great there is a definite argument for a case of style over content. While undoubtedly a decent performer it lacks the practical application to make it versatile. In the drivers seat you're reminded why you brought the Alfa as the seat hugs you and offers good support without ever being too soft and padded. It feels like a racing car, this is added to by the low roof and somewhat claustrophobic feel. The back seats are really only seats in name and you feel that Alfa should have just made a two seater and have done with it.

With the engine running the engine note is that of a gurgling menace, especially with the 3.2L unit. As you pull away the punch of the engine immediately hits you in the chest, it's a thrilling feel and feels like the little Italian is laying down a gauntlet, testing your bottle. So you tend to respond in the only sensible way and that's to bury the accelerator. With a 0 - 60 time of 6.1 seconds the 3.2L powerhouse takes no prisoners, but the GTV always feels as if it's working well within it's limits. The roar of the engine is intoxicating and within a heartbeat you're entirely focussed on driving the car. On the downside the engine is so thirsty that you can almost see the fuel gauge go down.

The handling is superb with the suspension set to a great balance to offer a smooth ride inside the car and great grip on the road. The steering offers superb feel for the road and feels almost laser guided. Bodyroll is negligible, but the 3.2 powerhouse can break traction on the front, driving wheels which can be difficult when powering out of corners. All in all though it's a great car to drive.

With the GTV Alfa have made something that qualifies more as an expensive toy than an all round vehicle. It's cheap to buy but very expensive to run and leaves buyers with a decision. If you're looking to do a lot of miles there are more expensive alternatives that will be cheaper in the long run, but if you're not looking at loads of miles and want a bit of fun the GTV may be just the thing for you.

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