The sedan Alfa Romeo 166 2003 - 2007 year modification 3.2 MT (240 hp)

Alfa Romeo 166: A Timeless Italian Sedan

The Alfa Romeo 166, produced between 2003 and 2007, is a quintessential Italian sedan that combines elegance, performance, and engineering excellence. As a flagship model in the E-class segment, this car embodies the spirit of Alfa Romeo, offering a blend of style and substance that appeals to enthusiasts and luxury car buyers alike. With its 3.2 MT (240 hp) petrol engine, the 166 delivers a driving experience that is both thrilling and refined.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Alfa Romeo 166 boasts a 3.2-liter V6 petrol engine, producing 240 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 289 Nm of torque at 4800 rpm. This front-mounted, transversely positioned engine features a distributed injection system and a 10.5:1 compression ratio, ensuring efficient fuel delivery and robust performance. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 245 km/h. While the fuel consumption of 18.3 l/100 km in the city and 9.1 l/100 km on the highway may not be the most economical, it is a trade-off for the power and performance this sedan offers.

Design and Dimensions

The Alfa Romeo 166 is a four-door sedan with a sleek and aerodynamic design. Its dimensions—4720 mm in length, 1800 mm in width, and 1416 mm in height—give it a commanding presence on the road. The wheelbase of 2700 mm ensures a spacious interior, while the ground clearance of 140 mm strikes a balance between stability and comfort. The car rides on 235/40 R18 wheels, providing excellent grip and handling. The trunk offers a generous 490 liters of space, making it practical for both daily use and long trips.

Transmission and Drive

Equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, the Alfa Romeo 166 offers a dynamic and engaging driving experience. The front-wheel-drive configuration ensures precise handling and control, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The mechanical gearbox allows drivers to fully exploit the engine's potential, delivering smooth shifts and responsive acceleration.

Suspension and Braking System

The Alfa Romeo 166 features an independent spring suspension system on both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The front and rear disc brakes ensure reliable stopping power, enhancing safety and confidence behind the wheel. This combination of suspension and braking systems makes the 166 a well-rounded vehicle for both city driving and highway cruising.

Pros and Cons

Like any car, the Alfa Romeo 166 has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, its powerful V6 engine, elegant design, and engaging driving dynamics make it a standout in its class. The spacious interior and generous trunk space add to its practicality. However, the relatively high fuel consumption and the lack of modern features found in newer models may be seen as drawbacks. Additionally, being a discontinued model, finding spare parts and servicing may require extra effort.

Conclusion

The Alfa Romeo 166 is a testament to Italian automotive craftsmanship, offering a unique blend of performance, style, and comfort. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient or technologically advanced car on the market, its timeless design and exhilarating driving experience make it a worthy choice for those seeking a distinctive and capable sedan. For enthusiasts of Italian engineering, the 166 remains a compelling option that continues to turn heads even years after its production ended.