Introduced in 1997, the 156 changed Alfa Romeo's image much more than a normal new saloon would. It mixed Walter de Silva styling, a very engaging front axle and a strong mechanical personality, which also means it is easy to desire for the wrong reasons.
The range runs from `1.6`, `1.8` and `2.0 Twin Spark` to `1.9` and `2.4 JTD`, with the `2.5 V6 Busso` `AR 32401` on top for real Alfa flavor. Twin Spark cars need oil, timing-belt and variator discipline; the early JTDs can be durable, but only if intake, EGR and oil service were kept in line.