Alfa Romeo 147 (2005) – A Comprehensive Overview

The Alfa Romeo 147 is a compact car that was produced by the Italian automaker Alfa Romeo from 2000 to 2010. It was introduced at the 2000 Turin Motor Show as a replacement for the Alfa Romeo 145 and 146 hatchbacks, and is based on the running gear of the larger 156 saloon. The 147 was voted European Car of the Year in 2001, and was available in three- and five-door hatchback body styles, as well as a saloon version, the Alfa Romeo 156.

Design and Styling

The Alfa Romeo 147 was designed by Walter de’Silva and was based on the 156 saloon. It featured a distinctive “shield” grille, with a large Alfa Romeo badge in the centre, and a sloping roofline. The 147 was available in three- and five-door hatchback body styles, as well as a saloon version, the Alfa Romeo 156. The 147 was also available in a variety of trim levels, including the entry-level “Turismo”, the mid-range “Lusso” and the top-of-the-range “Veloce”.

Engines and Performance

The Alfa Romeo 147 was available with a range of petrol and diesel engines. The petrol engines ranged from 1.6-litre to 2.0-litre, while the diesel engines ranged from 1.9-litre to 2.4-litre. The most powerful petrol engine was the 2.0-litre JTS, which produced 147bhp and was capable of 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds. The most powerful diesel engine was the 2.4-litre JTD, which produced 175bhp and was capable of 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds.

Interior and Equipment

The interior of the Alfa Romeo 147 was modern and stylish, with a range of features and equipment. The entry-level “Turismo” trim level was equipped with air conditioning, electric windows, a CD player and remote central locking. The mid-range “Lusso” trim level added alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control and a leather steering wheel. The top-of-the-range “Veloce” trim level added sports seats, a Bose sound system and a satellite navigation system.

Safety and Reliability

The Alfa Romeo 147 was equipped with a range of safety features, including ABS, EBD, ESP, airbags and Isofix child seat anchor points. The 147 was also rated highly for its reliability, with few reported problems.

Driving Experience

The Alfa Romeo 147 was praised for its sharp handling and responsive steering. The 147 was also praised for its comfortable ride, with the suspension absorbing most bumps and potholes. The 147 was also praised for its strong brakes, which provided good stopping power.

Conclusion

The Alfa Romeo 147 was a stylish and well-equipped compact car that was praised for its sharp handling, comfortable ride and strong brakes. It was also praised for its reliability and range of safety features. The 147 was available in three- and five-door hatchback body styles, as well as a saloon version, the Alfa Romeo 156. It was available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, and was voted European Car of the Year in 2001.