Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2001, the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA is certainly the spiritual successor to the original GTA sold throughout the 1960s. In fact, this sports saloon is a gorgeous model designed by Centro Stile in collaboration with Stola and was hand assembled on its own production line.
Today, most examples on the road surely have plenty of miles on the clock, used as family sports cars, alternatives to the BMW sports saloons of the time. This model however, first registered in 2002, has spent much of its life dry stored a Ferrari collector’s garage. It has covered very few miles currently sitting on 14,700 and has been thoroughly well cared for over the years.
Looking in astonishing condition, it also runs brilliantly and everything onboard reportedly works as it should. It has an extensive service history and a long MOT. H1AgvAAfZqELOoN379i5PXPgR489w8P3ItlAVxya.jpg1.86 MB
History and Paperwork
First registered in November 2002
Bought by most recent owner in 2004 with 8,000 miles on the clock
Having spent most of its life in dry storage, with limited use, this 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA is evidently in excellent condition inside. There is seemingly little to no wear throughout the cabin which benefits from the full Sport Pack option fitted from the factory.
Black leather upholstery adorns the seats and door cards, which look in great shape. The dark theme continues to the headlining which also presents itself well, as do the carpets. The excellent condition also applies to the multifunction steering wheel.
The black plastic dashboard shows no signs of cracking or fading, while the dials indented into the centre console give this car a certain charm. We are informed that all electronic features aboard work as they should, from the electric windows to the mirrors and the Bose hi-fi system.
With styling from Stola and Alfa Romeo Centro Stile, the 156 GTA is a fantastic looking car. The wider wheel arches, lofty rear wing and boxy haunches all give this car an aggressive stance. This is certainly a contrast to the elegant interior.
A traditional Italian red colour coats the bodywork. Just like the rest of the car, the paint work is in immaculate condition and is complimented by the many badges and decals offered on Alfa’s range-topping models. The Quadrifoglio and Biscione sit proudly on the front wings.
The wheels also look excellent in their recognisable design. And the tyres are reportedly those originally fitted from the factory. Visually, they still have plenty of tread, although the vendor does recommend they get replaced due to their age.
Underneath, this Alfa Romeo doesn’t follow any stereotypes with a very clean floor. Minor surface corrosion can be seen in spots, but the majority of the underside looks in great shape.n7sN7AitdNU73v8ulTWFePcTMWhivvDFPg074NSC.jpg1.67 MB
The Mechanics
Big Busso, 3.2-litre V6 engine, 246hp
Very clean engine bay
Well maintained example
Sitting in a very clean, sparkling engine bay is the largest of the Busso engines. This high-revving, tuneful powerplant is the 3.2-litre V6 that also powered the infamous 147 GTA hot hatch from the same era. Under the bonnet of this 156, it is good for no less than 246 horsepower, which should all be present to this day thanks to a fabulous maintenance record.
Despite not covering many miles and spending the majority of its life in dry storage, this example has received frequent services and MOTs. Most recently, with 14,500 miles on the clock, the cambelts, water pump and radiator were all replaced. The car also has relatively new brake discs and pads.ASfkCabMlZKGcXyiJR4drxZEUfwXPWwLDaxFeNSZ.jpg1.89 MB
Summary
In near-immaculate condition, this Alfa Romeo 156 GTA is almost a new car. It has been dry stored since 2004 and has covered very few miles in that time. With a Busso engine ready to roar and a short-throw six-speed manual transmission, it is surely set to make its new owner very happy.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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