Alfa Romeo 147 Pre-facelift (2001–2004) Price Guide

The pre-facelift 147, built from 2001 to 2004, is the original and purest expression of the design. It is also the version most likely to have accumulated the reliability problems that, for many, define the model’s reputation.

What Distinguishes It

The pre-facelift car has a more angular nose with a prominent chrome grille surround and round foglights. The interior uses a distinctive dashboard design with a deep instrument binnacle. The Selespeed gearbox was offered on Twin Spark models with steering wheel buttons rather than the paddles that arrived with the facelift. The 2.0 Twin Spark producing 150bhp is the pick of the pre-facelift petrol range — strong enough to be entertaining, common enough that parts are readily available.

Buying

Pre-facelift cars have had the longest time to develop problems. Cambelt history is absolutely critical — if there is no documented evidence of a belt change within the last 36,000 miles, assume the worst and budget accordingly. Check for suspension wear: the front lower ball joints and anti-roll bar links are consumable items on any 147. The Selespeed actuator on early cars is the version most likely to have failed. Electrical gremlins multiply with age. Rust is less of an issue than on older Alfas thanks to galvanised construction, but check around the wheelarch lips and door bottoms on neglected cars.

The pre-facelift 147 was produced alongside the pre-facelift 156, and the two shared engines, gearbox options, and many electrical components.