Alfa Romeo 156 GTA V6 3.2

Alfa Romeo 156 GTA V6 3.2

The Alfa Romeo 156, introduced in 1997, was a sensation from the moment it was unveiled. Designed by Walter de Silva at the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile, it won the European Car of the Year award in 1998, an honor that recognized its groundbreaking design language featuring concealed rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar, creating the illusion of a coupe-like silhouette.

The GTA variant, launched in 2002, was the most extreme version of the 156. It featured Alfa Romeo's magnificent 3.2-liter V6 engine, producing 250 horsepower at 6200 rpm, driving the front wheels through a six-speed Getrag manual gearbox. The engine, with its 60-degree vee angle, twin overhead camshafts, and variable valve timing, produced one of the most charismatic exhaust notes in the automotive world: a raspy, metallic bark that rose to a glorious howl as the tachometer swept past 5000 rpm.

The GTA received a comprehensive chassis upgrade. Wider front and rear tracks, flared wheel arches, Brembo brakes, stiffer springs and dampers, and a Torsen limited-slip differential addressed the challenge of putting 250 horsepower through the front wheels. Despite this, torque steer remained a characteristic feature, requiring strong arms and quick reflexes to manage the car's enthusiasm.

The Sportwagon (estate) version of the GTA offered the same mechanical specification in a more practical body, and became something of a cult car among enthusiasts who wanted family car versatility with supercar engine noise. Both sedan and Sportwagon shared the same wide-body treatment with flared arches and aggressive bumpers.

Inside, the GTA featured deeply bolstered Sparco sports seats, a leather-wrapped dashboard, and alloy pedals. The instrumentation was classically Alfa Romeo, with a large central tachometer and deep-set gauges. The overall ambiance was sporty and purposeful, if not the most refined cabin in the class.

The 156 GTA is a car that appeals to the heart rather than the head. It is not the fastest, most refined, or most reliable car in its class, but it is arguably the most exciting and characterful. The V6 engine alone justifies the car's existence, and coupled with the 156's beautiful design, it creates an experience that few modern cars can replicate.