Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5
The Alfa Romeo GTV6 represented the pinnacle of the Alfetta GT lineage, combining Giorgetto Giugiaro's timeless wedge-shaped design with Alfa Romeo's legendary V6 engine. Introduced in 1980, the GTV6 transformed the four-cylinder Alfetta GT into a genuine sports coupe with the addition of the magnificent 2.5-liter Busso V6 engine, named after Giuseppe Busso who designed it. This all-aluminum, single overhead cam per bank engine produced 160 horsepower and, more importantly, 215 Nm of torque that gave the car strong mid-range performance and an intoxicating exhaust note that remains one of the finest engine sounds ever produced. The GTV6's chassis utilized Alfa Romeo's innovative transaxle layout with the gearbox mounted at the rear for near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution. The De Dion rear suspension system with Watts linkage provided exceptional handling characteristics that allowed the GTV6 to punch above its weight on twisty roads. The car's steering was precise and communicative, the brakes were powerful ventilated discs all around, and the five-speed manual gearbox featured a traditional Alfa gate that demanded deliberate, mechanical shifts. Inside, the GTV6 featured supportive sports seats, comprehensive instrumentation including an oil pressure gauge, and typical Italian flair with leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob. The exterior styling aged beautifully, with its distinctive front end featuring quad headlights, aerodynamic bumpers, and subtle body cladding that gave the car presence without being ostentatious. The GTV6 enjoyed significant motorsport success, particularly in touring car racing where it won the 1986 European Touring Car Championship and various national championships. Production continued until 1986, with approximately 22,647 examples built. The GTV6 represented the last of the truly analog, mechanical Alfa Romeos before the brand shifted toward more modern, but arguably less characterful, designs. Today, enthusiasts prize well-maintained examples for their combination of Italian style, engaging driving dynamics, and that unforgettable V6 soundtrack.
Rust is the primary concern -- check inner and outer sills, floorpans, rear quarter panels, and trunk floor thoroughly. The Busso V6 is generally robust but requires regular timing belt replacement every 36,000 miles or four years. Check for oil leaks from the valve covers and rear main seal. The transaxle layout means clutch replacement is labor-intensive. Test the rear De Dion suspension for wear in bushings and Watts linkage pivots. Electrical systems can be problematic with typical Italian wiring issues. Interior trim quality is variable and parts are increasingly difficult to source. Verify compression across all six cylinders as head gasket issues can occur. Look for service history showing regular maintenance including valve clearance adjustments. Parts availability is improving with specialist suppliers supporting the model. A pre-purchase inspection by an Alfa Romeo specialist is highly recommended.
The GTV6 was produced at Alfa Romeo's Arese plant near Milan from 1980 to 1986. The 2.5-liter Busso V6 engine was an enlarged version of the 2.0-liter V6 used in the Alfa 6 sedan. European market cars produced 160 PS while US market cars were detuned to approximately 154 hp to meet emissions regulations. The car was sold as the GTV6 2.5 in Europe and as the GTV-6 in North America. A limited production Callaway turbocharged version was offered in the US market with approximately 200 hp. The GTV6 served as the basis for numerous racing variants that competed successfully in Group A touring car racing throughout the 1980s.