They say that tastes are not disputed. In some cases it's true: the Alfa Romeo 156 is indisputably beautiful. And the GTA version of the Alfa Romeo 156 took that attraction to even higher heights.
Unveiled at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA immediately captured the world's attention. It wasn't just a question of aesthetics. Under its hood we find the melodious (and also beautiful) 3.2 l V6 Busso engine. Atmospheric? Sure.
How melodious? This video is worth 1000 words…
It sounded (very) good and had numbers in line with the competition at the time: 250 hp of power (at 6200 rpm) and 300 Nm of torque (at 4800 rpm). Enough numbers to propel the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA from 0-100 km/h in 6.3s and reach a top speed of 250 km/h.
In technical terms, the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA was based on a front-wheel drive platform and had its engine served by a six-speed manual gearbox (there was also a semi-automatic Selespeed gearbox as an option).
The tracks were wider than on the "normal" 156, the ground clearance was also reduced and the geometry of the front suspension was completely revised. Despite these modifications, the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA tended to sink the front end and leak power through the inner wheel — a differential lock on the front axle was required.
We're also V6 fans… In the picture, the unavoidable Alfa Romeo "Busso"
Details that are not enough to tarnish the memory of one of the most beautiful sports saloons in history. What's more, it was usable in everyday life. Memorable!
However, its life was short, production ceased in 2005 due to Euro4 emission standards. A short but intense life… Viva Italia!
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About the “Glories of the Past”. It is the section of Razão Automóvel dedicated to models and versions that somehow stood out. We like to remember the machines that once made us dream. Join us on this journey through time, weekly here at Razão Automóvel.