Italian car design rarely disappoints, and the Alfa Romeo 147 (937B) proves this rule. Released in late 2004, this facelifted version of Alfa’s C-segment contender brought meaningful improvements while maintaining the model’s distinctive character. The updates transformed an already striking design into something even more captivating.
The 2004-2010 147 represents more than just a mere facelift. Alfa Romeo’s engineers focused on resolving early production issues while enhancing the car’s strengths. The result was a more mature product that better balanced the brand’s sporting heritage with daily usability.
Design That Turns Heads
Few cars in the C-segment can match the 147’s visual impact. The facelift brought sharper headlights, a refined grille design, and improved aerodynamics. These changes weren’t just cosmetic – they gave the car a more assertive presence while improving high-speed stability.
The side profile retained the original’s athletic stance, with subtle changes to the wheel designs and mirror housings. The five-door configuration cleverly disguises the rear doors, maintaining a coupe-like silhouette that sets it apart from conventional hatchbacks.
“After three years of ownership, I still catch myself looking back at my 147 every time I park it. The design has aged incredibly well – it looks modern even by today’s standards.” – James Mitchell, Alfa Romeo Owner’s Club
The rear end exemplifies Italian design flair, with elegant light clusters and a well-proportioned tailgate. The dual exhaust outlets and subtle roof spoiler hint at the car’s sporting intentions without appearing ostentatious.
Performance That Delivers
The engine lineup showcases Alfa Romeo’s technical prowess. The range starts with a spirited 1.6-liter unit producing 120 horsepower, ideal for urban environments and regular commuting. The 2.0-liter variant, with 150 horsepower, offers more engaging performance for enthusiast drivers.
Transmission options include a slick-shifting manual gearbox and Alfa’s Selespeed automated manual. While the latter divided opinion, the conventional manual transmission remains a highlight, offering precise shifts and well-chosen ratios.
“The combination of the 2.0-liter engine and manual gearbox makes every drive special. It’s responsive, engaging, and has that distinctive Alfa Romeo character.” – Michael Torres, Classic Italian Car Magazine
The chassis setup strikes an impressive balance between comfort and handling. The steering provides good feedback, while the front-wheel-drive layout delivers predictable handling characteristics. Body control remains composed even during spirited driving.
Living With The 147
Daily usability stands out as one of the facelifted 147’s strong points. Here are the key comfort features that make it a practical choice:
- dual-zone climate control with improved efficiency;
- redesigned seats with better long-distance comfort;
- enhanced sound insulation for reduced road noise;
- upgraded audio system with MP3 compatibility;
- flexible cargo space with 60/40 split rear seats.
These improvements make the 147 a more rounded package than its predecessor.
The interior space offers reasonable accommodation for four adults, though the rear seats work best for shorter journeys. The 350-liter boot capacity matches class standards, expanding significantly with the rear seats folded.
Fuel efficiency varies depending on engine choice and driving style. The 1.6-liter engine typically returns 7.5-8.5 liters per 100km in mixed use, while the 2.0-liter requires slightly more fuel but compensates with better performance.
Ownership Considerations
Maintaining a 147 requires attention to detail and adherence to service schedules. Regular oil changes, timing belt replacement at recommended intervals, and proactive suspension component inspection help prevent costly repairs.
Parts availability has improved over the years, with many specialists now stocking common components. While some electronic components can be pricey, mechanical parts remain reasonably affordable compared to German competitors.
“The key to happy 147 ownership is finding a knowledgeable specialist mechanic and staying on top of maintenance. Do that, and these cars are surprisingly reliable.” – David Cooper, Italian Car Specialist
The later production models, particularly from 2007 onwards, benefited from continuous quality improvements. These examples often represent the sweet spot for used buyers, combining enhanced reliability with more reasonable maintenance costs.
The Verdict That Matters
The Alfa Romeo 147 (937B) represents a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking character and style in a practical package. While it demands more attention than mainstream alternatives, the rewards of ownership extend beyond mere transportation.
This facelifted version successfully addressed many early criticisms while retaining the model’s core appeal. For the right buyer, it offers a unique blend of Italian flair and everyday usability that few competitors can match.
Pros and Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Distinctive Italian styling that stands out | Higher maintenance costs than mainstream rivals |
| Engaging driving experience with good feedback | Some electrical issues in early facelift models |
| Improved build quality over pre-facelift version | Limited rear passenger space compared to competitors |
| Strong performance from 2.0-liter engine | Selespeed transmission can be problematic |
| Comfortable front seats for long journeys | Parts can be expensive and harder to source |
| Good fuel efficiency from 1.6-liter engine | Some interior plastics show age quickly |
| Strong enthusiast community support | Requires specialist knowledge for maintenance |