156 GTA 3.2
The Alfa Romeo 156 GTA, produced 2002-2005 as ultimate performance variant of acclaimed sports sedan platform, features legendary Busso-designed naturally-aspirated 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 250 PS (247 bhp/184 kW) at 6,200 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) torque at 4,800 rpm paired exclusively with six-speed manual transmission driving front wheels through sophisticated Torsen Q2 electronically-controlled limited-slip differential managing power delivery. Performance-focused engineering achieves impressive 6.3-second 0-100 km/h acceleration and electronically-limited 250 km/h (155 mph) top speed despite front-wheel-drive layout, supported by comprehensively-revised suspension featuring stiffer springs and dampers, Brembo four-piston front brake calipers with 330mm ventilated discs, and distinctive wide-body design accommodating 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/45 performance tires.
The 156 GTA represents Alfa Romeo Gran Turismo Alleggerita philosophy combining lightweight construction through aluminum hood and trunk panels reducing weight to 1,485 kg, characteristic Italian styling with aggressive aerodynamic package including revised front bumper and distinctive side skirts, and iconic Busso V6 engine sound representing final high-displacement evolution of legendary twin-cam architecture. Available exclusively in sedan body style versus standard 156 wagon availability, the GTA features comprehensive interior upgrades including Recaro sport seats with Momo leather and Alcantara trim, upgraded instrumentation, and GTA-specific steering wheel. Technical sophistication includes advanced VDC stability control system, Alfa Romeo DNA drive mode selector, and sophisticated electronic differential calibration managing 250 horsepower through front axle creating engaging dynamics despite inherent front-drive limitations. Popular among Alfa Romeo enthusiasts as ultimate 156 expression combining characteristic brand passion with genuine performance capability, the GTA delivers distinctive V6 exhaust note unmatched by modern turbocharged alternatives, engaging manual transmission operation maintaining pure driving connection, and Italian styling elegance representing final naturally-aspirated Alfa Romeo performance sedan before subsequent forced-induction transition establishing legendary status among most desirable modern Alfa Romeo models commanding strong collector interest representing end of era for distinctive Busso V6 architecture throughout Alfa Romeo history.