🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Alfa Romeo Model: 156 GTA Year: 2004 Body Style: Sportwagon / Sedan Generation Generation Code: 932 (Series 2) Codes Chassis Code: 932A1B 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Alfa Romeo 156 GTA represented the pinnacle of performance and style within the mainstream 156 lineup, targeting enthusiasts seeking a blend of Italian flair, powerful V6 performance, and sporty handling. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with performance sedans and sportwagons such as the BMW 330i, Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Audi S4, and Volvo V70 R. Key Features Highlights: Distinctive 'Scudetto' grille, aggressive body kit, signature Alfa Romeo styling, potent naturally aspirated V6 engine, engaging driving dynamics. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: All Alfa Romeo 156 GTA models for the 2004 model year, including all engine variants and trim levels. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a comprehensive owner's manual of this era and model). Manual Type Type: Owner's Operators Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (Busso V6), Transmission (Manual & Q-System), Clutch, Differential. Chassis: Suspension (Front Double Wishbone, Rear Multi-link), Steering (Hydraulic Power Assisted), Brakes (ABS, EBD, ventilated discs front/rear), Wheels and Tires. Electrical: Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Audio System, Climate Control System. Bodywork: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, paint care. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, coolant checks and top-up, brake fluid checks, tire pressure monitoring and adjustment, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, cabin filter replacement. Operational Guidelines: Starting and stopping procedures, gear selection, parking, driving in various conditions, fuel economy tips. Troubleshooting: Guidance on common warning lights and dashboard indicators, basic diagnostic steps for minor issues. Safety Features: Explanation of airbag system, seat belt usage, child restraint systems, ABS, EBD operation. Technical Depth Depth: Covers essential owner-level operations, routine checks, fluid identification, and basic maintenance. Provides an understanding of vehicle systems for safe and efficient operation. Not a full workshop/service manual but offers comprehensive user guidance. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and other PDF-compatible devices. Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific information. Print Quality Quality: Digital PDF, quality dependent on the source scan/creation. Designed for on-screen viewing and optional printing. Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: AR32301 Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V6 (Busso V6) Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3179 cc) Performance Horsepower: 250 PS (247 bhp; 184 kW) at 6200 rpm Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) at 4800 rpm Fuel System Induction: Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.3.1) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON Recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-Speed Manual Optional Type: Q-System (Automated Manual with Paddle Shifters) Features Gear Ratios: Specific ratios detailed within the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.167, 2nd: 1.913, 3rd: 1.370, 4th: 1.069, 5th: 0.892, 6th: 0.744, Final Drive: 2.158). Fluid Type: Manual: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Q-System: Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type required. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Sedan: approx. 4421 mm; Sportwagon: approx. 4435 mm Width: approx. 1764 mm Height: Sedan: approx. 1429 mm; Sportwagon: approx. 1470 mm Weights Curb Weight: approx. 1480 kg (Manual Sedan) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: GVWR detailed in manual, typically around 1900-2000 kg. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Euro Ncap Rating: 4 Stars (for standard 156 model, GTA variant may have minor differences). Active Features Braking System: ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), Brake Assist. Traction Control: ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags (driver & passenger), side airbags, curtain airbags (optional/depending on trim). Seat Belts: Pre-tensioning front seat belts, three-point rear seat belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted Clarion or Bose audio system with CD player, radio, and speaker configuration. Manual details controls and basic functions. Climate Control: Manual or automatic climate control system (depending on trim). Manual explains operation of A/C, heating, and air distribution. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard feature, manual outlines activation and operation. Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional factory-fitted Bluetooth system or car phone preparation may be present. Manual details its functionality. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. High-performance driving may necessitate more frequent changes. Timing Belt: Crucial interval, typically every 90,000 - 100,000 km or 5-6 years, due to the interference nature of the Busso V6. Manual will specify the exact interval. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: Refer to manual for exact API/ACEA specification and viscosity (e.g., Selenia Star 5W-40 or equivalent). Capacity approx. 6.7 liters. Coolant: Paraflu UP or equivalent OAT-type antifreeze/coolant. Capacity approx. 7.5 liters. Brake Fluid: DOT 4, typically with a low moisture content. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Wear on suspension bushings,...
The Alfa Romeo 156 GTA represented the pinnacle of performance and style within the mainstream 156 lineup, targeting enthusiasts seeking a blend of Italian flair, powerful V6 performance, and sporty handling.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with performance sedans and sportwagons such as the BMW 330i, Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Audi S4, and Volvo V70 R.
Suspension (Front Double Wishbone, Rear Multi-link), Steering (Hydraulic Power Assisted), Brakes (ABS, EBD, ventilated discs front/rear), Wheels and Tires.
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Audio System, Climate Control System.
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, paint care.
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, coolant checks and top-up, brake fluid checks, tire pressure monitoring and adjustment, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, cabin filter replacement.
Operational Guidelines:
Starting and stopping procedures, gear selection, parking, driving in various conditions, fuel economy tips.
Troubleshooting:
Guidance on common warning lights and dashboard indicators, basic diagnostic steps for minor issues.
Safety Features:
Explanation of airbag system, seat belt usage, child restraint systems, ABS, EBD operation.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level operations, routine checks, fluid identification, and basic maintenance. Provides an understanding of vehicle systems for safe and efficient operation. Not a full workshop/service manual but offers comprehensive user guidance.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and other PDF-compatible devices.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific information.
Print Quality
Quality:
Digital PDF, quality dependent on the source scan/creation. Designed for on-screen viewing and optional printing.
Specific ratios detailed within the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.167, 2nd: 1.913, 3rd: 1.370, 4th: 1.069, 5th: 0.892, 6th: 0.744, Final Drive: 2.158).
Fluid Type:
Manual: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Q-System: Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type required.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Sedan: approx. 4421 mm; Sportwagon: approx. 4435 mm
Width:
approx. 1764 mm
Height:
Sedan: approx. 1429 mm; Sportwagon: approx. 1470 mm
Weights
Curb Weight:
approx. 1480 kg (Manual Sedan)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR detailed in manual, typically around 1900-2000 kg.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 Stars (for standard 156 model, GTA variant may have minor differences).
Active Features
Braking System:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), Brake Assist.
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver & passenger), side airbags, curtain airbags (optional/depending on trim).
Seat Belts:
Pre-tensioning front seat belts, three-point rear seat belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted Clarion or Bose audio system with CD player, radio, and speaker configuration. Manual details controls and basic functions.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control system (depending on trim). Manual explains operation of A/C, heating, and air distribution.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard feature, manual outlines activation and operation.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional factory-fitted Bluetooth system or car phone preparation may be present. Manual details its functionality.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. High-performance driving may necessitate more frequent changes.
Timing Belt:
Crucial interval, typically every 90,000 - 100,000 km or 5-6 years, due to the interference nature of the Busso V6. Manual will specify the exact interval.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for exact API/ACEA specification and viscosity (e.g., Selenia Star 5W-40 or equivalent). Capacity approx. 6.7 liters.
Coolant:
Paraflu UP or equivalent OAT-type antifreeze/coolant. Capacity approx. 7.5 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4, typically with a low moisture content.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Wear on suspension bushings, clutch wear (depending on driving style), cambelt tensioners and idler pulleys (critical for timing belt service), exhaust manifold cracks (Busso V6 specific).
Electrical Faults:
Potential for minor electrical gremlins, sensor issues (e.g., MAF, O2), and ABS sensor failures, common in vehicles of this age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Alfa Romeo boasts a rich motorsport heritage, known for its passionate engineering and distinctive Italian design. The 'GTA' designation historically signifies sporty, high-performance versions of Alfa Romeo models.
Model Evolution
Evolution:
The 156 GTA was the performance flagship of the acclaimed 156 range, which debuted in 1997. Introduced in 2002, the GTA featured a larger displacement version of the iconic Busso V6 engine and enhanced chassis components.
Production
Production Years:
2002-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Italy
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Acclaim:
The Alfa Romeo 156 platform received numerous awards, including the European Car of the Year in 1998. The GTA variant was highly regarded by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and unique V6 soundtrack.
Ratings
Performance Reviews:
Praised for its exhilarating performance, charismatic engine, and engaging handling characteristics, often cited as one of the last great naturally aspirated V6 performance cars.