Cheap, Fast and Practical (Alfa Romeo 33)

Member Name: shelleyzie

Product:	Alfa Romeo 33
Date:	14/01/01 (996 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Hot hatch bargain - and it sounds great

Disadvantages: Angular design, flimsy interior, delicate electrics

The 33 was never the jewel in Alfa's crown, but as the model developed, the Alfa 33 became increasingly better. These later models became the last Alfas with 'proper' engines - the boxer - the biggest of which, the 1.7 - was the best lump of the series.

If you're in the market for a MkIII Golf GTi or an XR3i, you could do much worse than buy an 2nd hand 33 16v Cloverleaf, which were often bought 'fully loaded' as company cars. A good L-reg can be had for under £2000 (the first owner will have picked up the tab for the appalling depreciation), and is likely to come with Recaros in Alacantra (artificial suede, as used in Lancias), Momo steering wheel, 15" pepperpot alloys, PAS and electric windows.

Granted, late 33 16v Cloverleafs don't compare to the latest Alfas, but can still give modern BMW 318s and Golf GTIs a good thrashing at the lights. They also sound wonderful, which is more than can be said about most cars on the road.

Handling isn't too bad, but not up to Alfa's usual standards - but a darn sight better than an XR3i. Nonetheless, it's still very predictable, although prone to a little wheelspinning at the lights if you're too enthusiastic with the accelerator.

The driving position is not as harsh as some reviewers say - particularly if Recaros are fitted. I'm of average height and build(I DON'T have short legs and long arms), and never found it uncomfortable.

As a hatchback, it's Escort-sized, and has a similarly sized cargo-space. Rear seats are split-fold, making the 33 a very practical proposition.

The finish - interior and exterior is not fantastic; plastics look a little cheap, and panels are thin. Having said that, I'd happily point out that it did share a parts-bin with the Ferrari 355 (door handles and vents).

It was also available as an estate - the 33 Sportswagon. Both hatchback and Sportawagon were also available with
4WD. These are much rarer, and more expensive to service, though great fun to drive.

I'd certainly recommend one to anybody looking for a fun, fast, practical and cheap hot-hatch.

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