I purchased a new Alfa Romeo 147 in 2001. The car drives brilliantly and has some great features but I would advise anyone to run a mile rather than buy one. I have had constant electronic problems, especially with lights, and it sometimes seems to be more often at the Alfa service garage than in my own garage.

However, the real nightmare arrived 4 weeks ago, when, the day after a full service (the car has been faithfully maintained), it conked out on a remote country road. The cam belt had gone and caused an estimated NZ$9,000 damage to valves etc. The car had done 110,000 kms, and despite Alfa apparently (I have since learned) having issued a warming about cam belts needing to be replaced after 3 years (!!), in my car's many service checks the cam belt had not been replaced. If you are thinking of buying an Alfa 147, be sure to check out the service facilities in your area, and the trustworthiness of the staff. I have had nothing but evasive answers, attempts to blame me for the problem - and no action!