Alfa’s 147 went head-to-head with the Golf GTI, but replaced German precision with Italian passion
Years ago we had historian Joe Kenwright muse on the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA’s credence as a future classic, in which he wrote: “It’s what the XU-1 Torana was to 1970s children when Holden slotted a race-ready 3.3-litre six into a tiny 1.3-litre Viva. Alfa crammed its hefty quad-cam 3.2-litre V6 into the engine bay of its 147 hatchback.”
Indeed, based on the pedestrian 147 hatchback, the 147 GTA was a hot-hatch special which sent a hefty 184kW to the front wheels via a limited-slip differential and a six-speed manual, in most cases.
The body was pumped and flared, now sitting 15mm wider at each side; whilst also gaining reinforced suspension components, firmer springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Leather seats represented one of the few optional extras available.
Just 5,029 units were produced, and they remain a tremendously characterful modern hot hatch with a glorious engine and a true sense of occasion: a rarity in modern cars. And as a niche marque, these little things aren’t terribly expensive to step into.
This 2004 example looks well-kept and is on the market having covered 100,324kms since new.
Specified with the six-speed manual gearbox, the 147 GTA is optioned further with leather trim, premium sound and Zenon headlights.
If anyone is after an unusual yet entertaining day-to-day runabout, this little Alfa might be worth a look.
The 147 GTA is based in Western Australia and is listed for $18,000.
Check out the full listing here!
Classic Australian Family Car Value Guide home page
Muscle Car Value Guide home page
Japanese Classic Car Value Guide home page
