Brad
Sorry for the slow reply
From memory the 159 has cupholders, dont remember where they are as the last time I sat in one was at the 159/Brera launch at Lance Dixon in mid 06, however the 147 had them hidden, one in the dash in a pop out thingo and one under the centre armrest  - must admit the interior was very classy in the 147 ditto the 156.

Davo last time I went skiing here in Vic to falls creek was in a 156 Twinspark, we took the windy backroads instead of the boring Hume hwy. It was lots of fun if a little cramped (full car load + gear) and this car had Eibachs as well so the handling was improved but the ride deteriated on crap roads.

The standard suspension on 156/147 is too soft manly due to the factory shockers which are rubbish.They have poor rebound.  Replace with Bilsteins or Konis and the ride/handling improves greatly and works well when used in conjuction with the Eibachs or H&R lowered springs.

Brent - has your car got the std shocks, if not then try Bilsteins/Konis should improve the ride greatly, sampled a 156 with Bilsteins once and there was a noticeable difference

sorry for the long waffley post !
Cheers
Pep