Launched in 2002, the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA it is, even today, one of the most desired hot hatch ever and even today it is not difficult to see why.
The bodywork designed by Walter de Silva and Wolfgang Egger did (and does) turn heads as they pass, and the more muscular look of this version and the “balls” wheels still occupy the dreams of many Alfa Romeo fans today.
In addition to the seductive lines, the 147 GTA also offered the equally beautiful and sonorous V6 Busso, an atmospheric engine that with 3.2 l of capacity delivered an already very lively 250 hp at 6200 rpm, which allowed it to fulfill 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3s and reach 246 km/h.
It should be remembered that at this time, a front-wheel drive with 250 hp was considered more power for an “all ahead” — just remember that the Volkswagen Golf R32, also with six cylinders and 250 hp, had four-wheel drive.
It wasn't difficult to reach the limits of the 147 GTA's front axle, which revealed difficulties in getting all 250 hp to the ground effectively, but nevertheless did not detract from it any appeal. It remains one of the hot hatch and one of the most desired Alfa Romeo's of this century.
A good deal?
Now, for all those who (like me) have dreamed of the transalpine hot hatch for years, the online auction “Open Roads” that RM Sotheby's will hold between February 19 and 28 may well be the opportunity they've been waiting for.
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The model in question has a manual gearbox with six gears (like most of the 147 GTAs), and is one of around 800 copies produced for the Italian market, having been originally sold in 2003 in Milan.
Since then, this Alfa Romeo 147 GTA painted with a “threatening” black paintwork that is complemented by the black and gray leather interior has only covered 32 800 km, with all the manuals and a recent overhaul done at Alfa Romeo (back in February of 2021).
In an impressive state of conservation, this 147 GTA is, most likely, one of the units with the fewest kilometers around, even with the original painting.
The famous (and showy) V6 Busso.
As for the price, RM Sotheby's did not set a base price for the bid, however, taking into account its state of conservation, it does not seem to us that it will be sold for very little. Nor should the fact that it has to be raised in Brusaporto, Italy, reduce the list of interested parties.
If we had a chance we'd go get him, what about you? Do you think it's a good deal? Or would you prefer to opt for the more efficient Volkswagen Golf R32 or the even more exotic (and wild) Renault Clio V6?