2004 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 24.09.2020

Alfa’s 147 went head-to-head with the Golf GTI, but replaced German precision with Italian passion

Years ago we had historian Joe Kenwright muse on the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA’s credence as a future classic, in which he wrote: "It's what the XU-1 Torana was to 1970s children when Holden slotted a race-ready 3.3-litre six into a tiny 1.3-litre Viva. Alfa crammed its hefty quad-cam 3.2-litre V6 into the engine bay of its 147 hatchback."

Indeed, based on the pedestrian 147 hatchback, the 147 GTA was a hot-hatch special which sent a hefty 184kW to the front wheels via a limited-slip differential and a six-speed manual, in most cases.

The body was pumped and flared, now sitting 15mm wider at each side; whilst also gaining reinforced suspension components, firmer springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Leather seats represented one of the few optional extras available.

Just 5,029 units were produced, and they remain a tremendously characterful modern hot hatch with a glorious engine and a true sense of occasion: a rarity in modern cars. And as a niche marque, these little things aren’t terribly expensive to step into.

This 2004 example looks well-kept and is on the market having covered 100,324kms since new.

Specified with the six-speed manual gearbox, the 147 GTA is optioned further with leather trim, premium sound and Zenon headlights.

If anyone is after an unusual yet entertaining day-to-day runabout, this little Alfa might be worth a look.

The 147 GTA is based in Western Australia and is listed for $18,000.

Check out the full listing here!

Classic Australian Family Car Value Guide home page

Muscle Car Value Guide home page

Japanese Classic Car Value Guide home page

Recent auction results

Unique Cars magazine Value Guides

Sell your car for free right here