Alfa Romeo 156
| |
| Alfa Romeo 156 | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer: | Alfa Romeo |
| Class: | front-engined saloon/estate |
| Production: | 1997 — present |
| Predecessor: | Alfa Romeo 155 |
| Successor: | Alfa Romeo 159 |
| Body styles: | Saloon Sportwagon |
| Engines: | 1.6l TS 1.8l TS 2.0l TS 2.5l V6 3.2l V6 GTA 1.9l JTD 2.4l JTD |
The Alfa Romeo 156, manufactured by Alfa Romeo, was introduced in 1997 as replacement for the 155. Its distinctive style with its high curved flanks made it, to some, the best looking car in it's class.
A significant addition to the 156 range was the Sportwagon estate in 2000.
Alfa Romeo 156 won the European Car of the Year prize in 1998, described as having "very refined suspension layout so to offer an impeccable roadholding". [1]
In February 2002 the 156 GTA and SportsWagon GTA were launched. A 3.2l V6 with six speed gearbox, this car was aimed at the Audi S4 performance market. The GTA was subsequently stopped production in October 2005, citing poor sales and the upcoming replacement to the 156, the Alfa Romeo 159.
156s in Motorsport
The Alfa Romeo 156 was not as well vested in motorsport as it's predecessor, the 155, however it runs in the British Touring Car Championship as well as various European championships.