Alfa Romeo 156 V6: The Japanese Solution

Have you ever found yourself in the unenviable position of wanting to replace a beloved car, only to discover that production has ceased and finding a pristine, low-mileage, and meticulously maintained example is akin to searching for a needle in a haystack? For many Alfa Romeo enthusiasts, this exact scenario has played out, particularly when it comes to the much-admired 156 model. The author, a devoted owner of numerous Alfa Romeo 156s, including various Sportwagon variants from the economical 1.9 JTD to the powerful 2.4 JTD ti and several 2.5 V6s, shares a personal quest for the near-perfect combination: the 156 Sportwagon paired with the engaging six-speed manual gearbox and the glorious 2.5 V6 engine. The timeless design and practical size of the Sportwagon, especially the more desirable post-2003 facelifted version, continue to captivate. However, the UK market's unfortunate omission of the V6 facelift left the author resigned to the belief that their ideal car was simply unobtainable.

The Allure of the Busso V6

The intrinsic appeal of the legendary Alfa Romeo "Busso" V6 engine is undeniable. Its distinctive soundtrack and smooth power delivery have cemented its place in automotive history. Driven by this passion, the search expanded to other models that featured this magnificent powerplant. The obvious contender, the 156 GTA Sportwagon, has since become a highly sought-after collector's item, with prices reflecting its rarity and desirability. However, many existing GTA examples suffer from high mileage, evidence of hard driving, and, a significant concern, under-body corrosion. The author also laments Alfa Romeo's decision not to offer the GTA with the facelifted styling, though they acknowledge that retro-fitted facelift examples can look superb.

Exploring Alternatives: The GT and Beyond

Other avenues explored included the 147 GTA and the GT 3.2. The 147 was dismissed for reasons similar to the 156 GTA, compounded by the author's personal reservations about its "frisky" handling and firm ride. The choice then fell upon the GT, based on the expectation of a similar driving experience to the 156, albeit with more power, and the availability of good low-mileage examples at reasonable prices. In reality, the GT's handling was perceived as ponderous in comparison, and the gearchange less than sprightly. While the 3.2 engine offered more outright power, it lacked the thrilling, rev-happy character of the 156's 2.5 V6. An additional, albeit minor, annoyance was the wind noise emanating from the frameless side windows. Ultimately, the author found that the GT 3.2 was not a car they truly bonded with.

The Quest for the Facelift V6 156

Undeterred, the search continued, involving trawling auction sites for low-mileage facelift V6 156s. This proved to be a largely fruitless endeavour, given that the desired specification had never been officially offered in the UK. Rumours of a single example surfacing in Ireland offered a glimmer of hope, but ultimately led nowhere concrete. A more ambitious, and ultimately dismissed, idea was to build a custom car by transplanting a V6 engine into a later facelifted 1.6 or 1.8 model. This project was quickly abandoned due to prohibitive costs and the inherent unpredictability of such extensive modifications.

Japan: A Revelation for the Discerning Enthusiast

Further research uncovered that right-hand drive, facelifted V6 156s were indeed available in other parts of the world, most notably South Africa and Japan. While South African websites did present a few options, these were generally high-mileage and not particularly appealing. Japan, however, emerged as a revelation. The Japanese market is renowned for its fastidious car owners and a vibrant community of Alfa Romeo, Abarth, and Lancia enthusiasts. Numerous websites facilitate car exports, and it became evident that certain Japanese-market models, such as the high-spec 156 ti fitted with a V6 engine and manual gearbox, were never offered in Europe. This presented a tantalising prospect.

Navigating the Import Maze with Expert Guidance

The prospect of dealing with Japanese websites, often featuring automated responses in stilted English, did little to inspire confidence. The idea of purchasing a vehicle sight unseen from Japan evoked significant nervousness. Crucially, the author recognised the need for expert advice. Regular readers of the publication would be familiar with the Ward family's history with Fiat Coupes, many of which were expertly serviced by John Cartlidge at Midlands Car Services. John's extensive experience in importing numerous superb Italian cars from Japan, including many models not available in the UK, made him the ideal source of reliable information. His no-nonsense approach and undeniable engineering expertise provided the author with the assurance needed.

The importance of seeking advice from someone with in-depth knowledge of the import system cannot be overstated. The process is fraught with potential pitfalls and unexpected costs for the unwary. Many Japanese websites appear to list cars that have already passed through auctions. In reality, the enticing 2005 156 V6 Sportwagon in Misano Blue might only exist as a digital lure. An enquiry about such a car could easily result in the response, "It has already been sold, but we have a similar one in stock." A deposit is then taken, and the company ventures to an auction to procure the buyer's dream car. Considering the typical six-to-eight-week transit time for a car to reach the UK, there have been instances of deposits and/or cars simply disappearing. Unfortunately, disreputable traders exist in Japan too. While the sale price on Japanese websites often includes delivery to a UK port, crucial costs like UK import duty, VAT, port expenses, and final delivery charges are frequently omitted. These additional expenses can easily double the initial sale price.

John Cartlidge's successful track record of importing approximately 40 cars from Japan, not all of them Italian, highlights his expertise. He utilises a trusted agent in Japan who manages the auction purchases and shipping arrangements. Engaging with a website-based company is generally more expensive due to their necessary mark-up, whereas an agent typically works on commission, offering greater reliability and often better value. John provides an all-inclusive cost for the cars he sources, based on previous auction sale values. This comprehensive price covers all duties and delivery, and he confidently guarantees the condition of the vehicle. Remarkably, no deposit is required, with payment due upon collection. This transparent and fair approach is hard to fault.

The Perfect Find: A Japanese Gem

With this trusted guidance, the author proceeded, setting clear criteria: a low-mileage 2005 2.5 V6 156 Sportwagon, preferably in red or blue. John quoted a price, which was agreed upon, and the wait for a suitable car commenced. Fortuitously, the wait was short-lived. Within days, the author received an email containing pictures of an immaculate, one-owner example in red, showing a mere 56,000 km (approximately 35,000 miles) on the odometer, and equipped with the Q-System automatic transmission. The significant time difference necessitated John setting an alarm for 3 am to place the bid at auction. He was successful. Following the auction, the agent dispatched detailed pictures of the car, which indeed looked superb. The anticipation now turned to the eight-week wait for its arrival.

Arrival and Initial Observations

The call from John to confirm the car's arrival at Midlands Car Services, along with two yellow Fiat 20v Turbo Coupes in the same shipment, was met with excitement. John reported a minor issue: a cracked front bumper lip sustained during transit. He readily agreed to have it repainted and to put the car through an MOT inspection. In the meantime, the DVLA assigned an age-related "05" registration plate, and a lower rate of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) was calculated, as the car had previously been registered abroad. The day finally arrived to collect the 156, and the author was astonished by the overall quality. The paintwork was near-perfect, with the sole exception being the rear bumper, which had been repainted at some point by the previous owner in a slightly mismatched shade of red. The interior seats appeared almost untouched, as if they had never been sat upon. Given that the paintwork was not faded and the car had covered less than 2,000 miles per year since 2005, it was evident that the vehicle had been used sparingly and stored with care.

The Re-awakening Process and Necessary fettling

As is often the case with Italian cars that have experienced extended periods of storage, the "re-awakening" process inevitably brings a compilation of minor issues. The engine thermostat had seized, the air conditioning system was non-functional, the fuel gauge displayed erratic readings, and there were noticeable creaks emanating from the suspension. The Japanese satellite navigation system proved utterly unfathomable, and, rather annoyingly, so did the service history documentation. The car was promptly booked in for a comprehensive service at Alfa-Workshop. It was discovered that the engine had seen very little mechanical attention, although the oil itself was clean. Jamie Porter's team meticulously addressed a list of necessary replacements and adjustments, including the timing belts, front brake discs, suspension wishbones (due to dry joints), engine top mount, radiator, and the aforementioned thermostat. Despite the car's immaculate appearance, the chassis was found to be completely devoid of underseal – a common oversight on facelift 156s, where sometimes only one side receives protection. Consequently, a much-needed coat of underseal was applied.

The Peculiar Air Conditioning Fault and Japanese Innovations

One particular issue demanded a significant amount of time and diagnostic effort to resolve: the air conditioning. The fault was elusive and, frankly, bizarre. It transpired that the air conditioning fuse was shared with the cigarette lighter circuit. Upon inspection, a small metal piece from an accessory plug was discovered lodged at the bottom of the lighter socket, causing a short circuit. The lack of functioning air conditioning in the Japanese heat, coupled with the list of servicing issues, likely offers a clue as to why this particular 156 found its way to auction in the first place. All attempts to decipher the Japanese satellite navigation system ended in miserable failure. The disembodied voice, which seemed intent on directing the car to an obscure location thousands of miles away in Japan, became increasingly irritating. Consequently, a standard UK stereo system was installed. The fitter helpfully explained the proliferation of aerials adorning the 156's windows, revealing that the satellite navigation unit also incorporated satellite television functionality!

Embracing the Q-System Automatic

The author had not experienced a Q-System equipped 156 since a road test conducted back in 1999. At that time, automatics were not particularly favoured. However, with advancing years and the prevalence of modern stop-start driving conditions, the appeal of an automatic transmission has become more apparent. Having lived with the Japanese-imported 156 for a period, the author has developed a genuine fondness for the Q-System. The robust, Japanese-manufactured Aisin transmission offers three distinct automatic driving modes: 'Ice', 'City', and 'Sport'. Additionally, there is a manual mode, selectable by shifting the gear lever to the left-hand sector. This manual mode features four distinct ratios arranged in an 'H' pattern, mimicking a traditional manual gearbox. In 'Ice' mode, the car commences its journey in second gear to mitigate the risk of wheelspin on slippery surfaces. The 'City' mode facilitates gear changes at approximately 3500rpm, while 'Sport' mode allows the engine revs to climb to around 5500rpm before shifting. The clutchless manual gear lever function enables high revs in each ratio and provides valuable engine braking during deceleration, enhancing control.

The author primarily utilises 'City' mode and finds the gear changes to be exceptionally smooth, almost imperceptible. On the road, the spacing of the four ratios can occasionally feel limiting, particularly when exiting a fast roundabout. However, it's worth noting that in similar situations, the author's previous six-speed manual Sportwagon often struggled to smoothly engage third gear on exits, making second gear a rather hectic choice. The Q-System incorporates a kickdown function for an extra surge of power when needed. Nevertheless, the author finds that simply engaging the 'Sport' switch provides a more immediate response and unleashes that satisfying V6 soundtrack at higher revs. Therefore, when embarking on your own search for a low-mileage 156 V6, whether in Japan or elsewhere, it is strongly advised not to dismiss the Q-System. Its smooth operation and the overall driving experience can be surprisingly rewarding.

Key Takeaways and Contact Information

Finding a rare specification Alfa Romeo 156 V6 Sportwagon, especially a facelifted model, can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding endeavour. Importing from Japan, with the right guidance, offers a viable solution. The Q-System automatic transmission, often overlooked, provides a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, particularly suited to modern driving conditions. The key to a successful import lies in meticulous research, choosing a reputable import specialist, and understanding all associated costs.

Important Considerations for Importing:**

• Research is paramount: Understand the specific models and specifications available in different markets.
• Choose a reputable specialist: Look for individuals or companies with proven experience in importing Japanese cars, like John Cartlidge.
• Factor in all costs: Beyond the advertised price, include import duty, VAT, port fees, and delivery charges.
• Be prepared for fettling: Cars stored for extended periods may require attention to various components.
• Understand the transmission: Don't dismiss automatic options like the Q-System; they offer a different, yet enjoyable, driving experience.

For those seeking similar import services or advice on Alfa Romeo vehicles, the following contact information is provided:

CONTACT: Midlands Car Servicing / John Cartlidge, Shepshed, Leicestershire. Tel: 07905 143 578. Website: midlandscarservicing.co.uk

A Look Back at Previous 156 Alfas Owned: