11 June 2001: Alfa Romeo is coming up with its fastest-ever saloon which will directly take on high-performance derivatives of competitors such as the upcoming version of the Mondeo S220.

The 156 GTA will be powered by a 3.2-litre version of the 3.0 V6, which powers top versions of the GTV and 166 (above). It will generate some 250bhp, allowing the car a 160mph top speed and a 0-60mph sprint of less than six seconds. There will be a six-speed gearbox, and possibly a Selespeed option. The VDC stability system developed by Bosch will be included in the specification.

Look forward to a GTA version of the 147 as well, probanly with 200bhp under the bonnet. Along with new versions of the GTV and Spider, Alfa is likely to use the strongly sporty cars to lead its return to the US market.. TW