Especificaciones y análisis del Alfa Romeo 166
Power
175HP
Torque
385Nm
Consumption
8.9l/100
Emissions
-g/km
0-100 km/h
8.9s
Top Speed
218km/h
Weight
1655kg
Price
44,600€
Technical summary
Gasóleo
Automático 5v
FWD
5 / 4 doors
490 L
69 L
129 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Alfa Romeo 166 2.4 JTD 20v 175 CV Distinctive Aut. (2003-2006)
General description
The 2004 version of the Alfa Romeo 166 represents the culmination of the early-century Italian executive sedan. With Walter de Silva's redesign, this flagship not only gained an imposing and timeless aesthetic but also reaffirmed its passionate character. Equipped with the powerful 175 hp 2.4 JTD five-cylinder diesel engine and automatic transmission, it positioned itself as an alternative with soul and heart against its sober German rivals.
Driving experience
Driving the Alfa Romeo 166 is an experience that directly appeals to the senses. The deep, characteristic roar of the 5-cylinder engine as it revs is addictive, a melody that distinguishes it from any other diesel. The thrust of its 385 Nm of torque feels forceful and linear, providing vigorous acceleration that pushes you into your seat. Despite its focus on comfort, its chassis with a double-wishbone suspension on both axles gives it surprising agility and cornering poise for a sedan of its size. It's a car that invites you to devour miles on the highway in superb comfort, but doesn't shy away from bringing smiles on back roads, connecting the driver to the asphalt in a way only an Alfa can.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the post-facelift Alfa Romeo 166 is pure emotion sculpted in metal. The front, dominated by the imposing 'scudetto' that merges with the hood and the sharp, aggressive headlights, gives it an overwhelming personality and an intimidating gaze. The side line is fluid and elegant, a classic sedan silhouette that shuns right angles to embrace sportiness. The interior welcomes you into a luxurious, driver-focused environment, with a center console oriented towards the driver and quality materials that, although they betray its age, convey a sense of craftsmanship and Italian warmth. It is a design that has aged with exceptional dignity, remaining attractive and distinctive.
Technology and features
Under its designer skin, the 166 hid advanced technology for its time. The 20-valve 2.4 JTD engine was one of the pioneers of Multijet technology, with common-rail direct injection, a variable-geometry turbo, and an intercooler, offering remarkable performance and efficiency. However, the real technological gem was its suspension layout: a sophisticated double-wishbone system on both the front and rear axles, a solution more typical of sports cars that guaranteed superior control and ride comfort. The 5-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter, although not the fastest, provided the smoothness and comfort expected in a sedan of its class.
Competition
The Alfa Romeo 166 faced fierce competition in the executive sedan segment, a territory dominated by German manufacturers. Its direct rivals were the BMW 5 Series (E60), the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211), and the Audi A6 (C6). While the Germans focused on sobriety, technological perfection, and a status image, the Alfa 166 offered a different argument: passionate design, driving pleasure, and the exclusivity of a car with an Italian soul. It also competed with other alternatives like the Lancia Thesis, the Saab 9-5, or the Volvo S80, but always stood out for its unmistakable 'cuore sportivo'.
Conclusion
The Alfa Romeo 166 2.4 JTD is much more than a simple diesel sedan; it is a statement of intent. It is a car for those who seek to feel the drive, who value beauty over functionality, and who understand that a car can generate deep emotions. Despite its age, its engine remains a work of diesel engineering art, and its design still turns heads. It is not the most practical or the most reliable car, but it offers a unique and rewarding experience that makes it a modern classic, a piece of Italian automotive history to be enjoyed with the heart.