How did the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA stack up against other hot hatches of its year?
In the early 2000s, Alfa Romeo's answer to the hot hatch market was the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA — a car featuring a 3.2 liter V6 engine good for 250 horsepower. It battled established players in the form of Volkswagen Golf R32, Ford Focus RS, Renault Megane RS. Its naturally aspirated V6 was the GTA’s selling point in a segment full of turbocharged four cylinder engines. Its handling, the task of getting so much power to the front wheels, its performance versus the competition are all subjects of debate among enthusiasts. The discussion usually includes whether the GTA is rare enough, about the soundtrack, and how much its Italian looks make up for any inferiority in raw speed or ease of driving.
The 147 GTA is a beast! There is no V6 sound quite like that in the hot hatch world. Yeah, it’s not the fastest in a straight line, but it certainly has character.
I've driven the GTA and the Golf R32 and the VW is more composed. With all that power going to the front wheels, the Alfa is exciting, but a handful.
The GTA is a flawed gem. The chassis struggles to cope, but it's got an amazing engine. But dammit, I’d still rather have it than a Focus RS any day, because it’s just so damn dramatic.
This is a hot hatch for connoisseurs. Not the most practical or the fastest, but probably the most special. The price of admission alone is that engine note.
I can personally say that it is a mixed bag as an ex GTA owner. Such an incredible looking engine, but torque steer for days and it's thirsty as hell. Wouldn't trade the experience though!
The hot hatch equivalent of a muscle car is the 147 GTA. All engine, questionable handling. Fun, but not as well-rounded as some rivals.
It’s the hot hatch for the person with his heart in his head. Not the best on paper, but it makes you feel special every time you get in it.
I’d say the GTA is a spiritual successor to the Lancia Delta Integrale more than a real competitor to modern hot hatches. It's all about the emotion.
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Discussions and Questions How Did The Alfa Romeo 147 Gta Stack Up Against Other Hot Hatches Of Its Year
How did the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA stack up against other hot hatches of its year?
30 January 2025 09:31
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