The Alfa Romeo 147 Is A Small Car That Packs A Big Punch

By: Kerry Plowright

Alfa Romeo has always been synonymous with Italian style and flair, and the Alfa Romeo 147 is certainly no exception.

The Alfa 147 is a small car that packs a big punch. It's a hatchback available in both three and five door models. The standard Alfa 147's Twin Spark 2.0 litre engine delivers 110 kw of power offering both impressive responsiveness and great fuel economy. And if you're looking for even greater fuel economy, you can opt to have the Alfa M-Jet JTD diesel model. According to Alfa Romeo, the M-Jet JTD "operates at ten times the speed of most other diesel systems". The M-Jet JTD engine maximises fuel burn and minimises emissions, providing 305 Nm of torque at just 2,000 rpm. You can choose either the 5 speed manual gearbox or the sequential Selespeed auto.

If you want something with even more get up and go, you might want to take the 184 kw Alfa 147 GTA for a spin around the block. This little powerhouse includes a 3.2 litre, V6 24 valve engine that will get you from 0 to 100 km/h in a blinding 6.4 seconds and will have you cruising at just over 240 km/h (if you're driving on unrestricted roads in the NT of course). It's available in both a 6 speed manual and 6 speed sequential Selespeed.

But it's not just what powers the Alfa Romeo 147 that makes it so special. The cars styling complements its purebred sports performance. The front of the 147 offers a typically distinctive Alfa grille (below that wonderful Alfa Romeo badge), combined with sleek headlights and a clean, sweeping bonnet.

The rear end of the 147 will not disappoint either, combining both elegance and sportiness with clean lines and revitalised rear tail lights. From all angles, the Alfa Romeo 147 looks great.

New cars start from around $36,000 for the manual Alfa 147 3 door hatch, while at the top end, the Alfa 147 GTA 6 speed Selespeed will set you back more than $63,000. And if you want a sunroof and metallic paint, expect to pay even more. If this is out of your price range, look for a good used car.

If you're looking for a good oneowner used car, look for one that has not been driven too hard. Check for body repair work and make sure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly. Also, check the gear changes when you take it for a test drive.

If you're looking for a small new or oneowner used car with sporty looks and the performance to match, the Alfa Romeo 147 is worth a look.

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