Alfa Romeo 145 2.0 Ts

Advantages: it goes
Disadvantages: high maintenance costs

The Alfa Romeo 145 Cloverleaf. Very fast 2 litre 16v engine, variable valve tech, 8 spark plugs, distinctive look, very spacious inside... so what's the problem? Yep, its the dealers. They either don't know how to fix things on the car, or when they do, they charge twice the price on parts and labour of an independent garage - and thats if you can find a dealership that's local. Although if you do end up at one - whilst they scratch their heads checking ...
...wander round eyeing up your next alfa, because despite all you'll want another one !! I've had two 145s so far, first a 145 1.7 16v boxer. This was pretty good really, but very very thirsty. So I traded up to a cloverleaf 3 years ago. Overall its done well. Its very economical on petrol for a 2 litre 16v, its comfortable on long journeys, and has very quick steering like all modern alfas. Mine's a metallic plum colour which does look rather strange ... Read review

Advantages: Quick, Looks, Diffrent
Disadvantages: Parts and dealers!

...I’m very impressed with my Alfa Romeo 145 Cloverleaf. I purchased this car in March 2003 for a measly £1750 (1996 N Reg) and have enjoyed nearly every minute of ownership. The engine sounds superb and when the injectors kick in around 3000rpm you certainly have a smile on your face. The fuel economy isn’t bad for a 2.0litre giving around 200miles for £25.00 but you can squeeze a few more miles if you drive more sensibly. I’ve had a few problems ...
...standard juddering windscreen wipers everything’s been excellent. My only advice is find a very good Alfa specialist for parts and servicing because Alfa Romeo Dealers are a complete waste of space and charge 3 times as much as anywhere else. If you’re interested in more information visit www.alfaowner.co.uk. ... Read review

Advantages: looks, 2.0 t/spark 16v engine, well kitted out
Disadvantages: expensive parts

owned this now for six months. To be honest, it was love at first sight, it is so far away from the run of the mill sporty/family hatches. Everything about it is so different. Being the cloverleaf model (top spec) it is well equipped elec windows, mirrors, roof...Good alarm, multi play cd, alloys, very nice interior with superb seats... enough about that....onto the engine!!!!!the 2 litre twin spark must be one of the best performing and sounding ...
...gripes are to do with money....these cars attract quite high insurance groups so sit down when you ring for quotes|!!!and parts are dear...eg timing belt, balancer belt and tensioner renewal a whopping £233!!!(and thats not main dealer price. I visited them and they didnt inspire confidence so my trusty mechanic did the job)bonnet badge £18..but so far that is it its a lovely motor and i will sacrifice a little extra in the above mentioned money ... Read review

Advantages: FAST, NIMBLE , GOOD ON FUEL AND GOOD LOOKS
Disadvantages: UPKEEP ,DEELERS, TURNING CIRCLE

WHAT A CAR THE BEST I HAVE OWNED SO FAR GREAT LOOKING WITH DESCREET BADGING . GREAT ROAD HANDLING BUT DID HAVE A TERRIBLE TURNING CIRCLE . LOADS OF POWER AND GREAT RESPONSE THROUGH THE MULTI VALVE ENGINE .IF DRIVEN NOT TO MADLEY GIVES GREAT FUEL ECOMOMY . THE MAIN THINGS TO WORRY ABOUT IS THE COST OF A SERVICE AS YOUR MATE DOWN THE LOCAL GARAGE WONT BE ABLE TO CHANGE THE TWO BELTS ON THIS AND THE PLUGS COSTA FURTUNE ALONG WITH THE SPECIAL OIL . ALL ...
...COST BUT THAT IS OUTWAYED BY THE DRIVING PLEASURE YOU GET FROM THIS CAR IT JUST KEEPS GOING FASTER ALL THE TIME . DIDNT MUCH LIKE THE LITTLE SPARE TYRE YOU GET WITH IT THOUGH (SPACE SAVER) ALSO WATCH OUT FOR THE HIGH INSURANCE COSTS AS IT IS A 150 BHB CAR AND IT WILL COST . OVERALL YOU WONT BE DISSAPIONTED WITH THIS ITALIAN STALIAN OF A CAR ... Read review