I managed to test drive a 2.6 V6 manual and wow, what an engine. It was an enthralling and addictive drive which even had my 7 year old daughter saying it sounded like a racing car...and this was at sensible revs under the speed limit.

A GTA must be absolutley magnificent!

Now to try and find a 2.5 manual - with the 2002 update......

That's the example I test drove but unfortunately it is a pre-August 2002 and hence has the original all grey interior. You can't see it that well from the photo.

Hi Guys
Just on the 156 2.5L referred to in the first post some time ago, after some weeks of researching, yesterday I purchased a manual 2002 model with very low kms - for an unbelievably good price.

I'm not sure whether there were many cars ever sold in the manual version, however, I would recommend any of you who are looking for a practical, modern Alfa sedan with grunt, all the bells & whistles ( well at least mine has ), great sound, and plenty of attitude, should seriously have a look thru the classifieds, cos value for money, this is one of the best modern Alfa packages going around............

Of couse, there is the serviceing side of things to consider every 60kms or whatever - which do add up to a few $$$ - but, at this early stage, I'm one happy Alfisti !!!

Cheers all

Len