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Alfa Romeo 166: executive saloon, V6 and JTD engines
Alfa Romeo 166 (1998–2007) — a large front-wheel-drive executive saloon that replaced the 164. We look at the engines, trims and what to check when buying this rare but fairly affordable used car.
166 in brief
The Alfa Romeo 166 replaced the 164 and became the flagship of the Alfa Romeo range. The car stands out with its expressive Italian design, spacious and luxurious interior and engine choices, including V6 and five-cylinder diesel.
The 166 is rarely seen on the used market, and its price is relatively low, as it was expensive new and depreciates quickly. However, maintenance costs can be higher than those of a typical car.
Which trim to choose
Production ran from 1998–2007, and in 2003 the car was refreshed: the front, interior and some trim details were changed. The refreshed version looks more modern and has improved engines.
If you're after the best-condition car, it's worth choosing the refreshed version. Enthusiasts often go for V6 models, but due to maintenance costs many buyers opt for the simpler 2.0 Twin Spark or 2.4 JTD.
Engines and gearboxes
Petrol engines — 2.0 Twin Spark (around 155hp), 2.0 V6 turbo (around 205hp), 2.5 V6 (around 190hp) and 3.0 / 3.2 V6 (around 220–240hp). The V6 engine note is one of the biggest selling points of this model.
The 2.4 JTD five-cylinder diesel (around 136–175hp) is more economical and pulls well, so many choose it for long distances.
Transmission — manual or automatic Sportronic with manual shifting.
What to check when buying a used 166
Inspect the electrical equipment: windows, central locking, climate control, screens, and lighting. Older executive class cars can be expensive to repair.
For the V6 engine, check the timing belt replacement history and the condition of the cooling system. In the diesel JTD, check the fuel system and the turbo.
Check the front suspension — a heavy car wears out control arms and bushings, and tyres and brakes are more expensive than those on smaller cars.
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly encountered versions.
2.0 Twin Spark
1998–2007A straightforward petrol option.
- Around 155 HP
- Often — climate control
- Manual transmission
2.5 / 3.0 V6
1998–2007More powerful petrol versions with the V6 engine.
- Around 190–240 HP
- Often — automatic transmission
- Often — single-tone interior
2.4 JTD
1998–2007Economical five-cylinder diesel.
- Around 136–175 hp
- Better pull and lower running costs
- Often — generous comfort equipment
Comparing versions
| 2.0 Twin Spark | 2.5 / 3.0 V6 | 2.4 JTD | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For easier servicing | For enthusiasts | For long distances |
| Power | Around 155 HP | Around 190–240 HP | Around 136–175 hp |
| Fuel consumption | Average | Highest | Lowest |
| Maintenance | Average | More expensive | Average |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | € |
For most buyers, the best bet is the 2.4 JTD or 2.0 Twin Spark with a good service history. The V6 is for those who appreciate sound and power and are prepared for higher running costs.
Pros
- Striking design and luxurious interior
- Spacious and comfortable
- Characteristic V6 engines
- Low price in the used market
Cons
- Electronics repairs can be costly
- Heavy car, suspension parts wear out faster
- Rare, harder to sell later
Frequently asked questions
Is the Alfa Romeo 166 reliable?
Its reliability depends greatly on its service history. A well-maintained 166 can serve you well, but you should expect issues with electronics and the drivetrain.
Which 166 engine is the best?
Many opt for the 2.4 JTD for its economy, while the V6 is chosen for its sound and power. The most important thing is that the car is well-maintained.
How does the 166 differ from the 164?
The 166 is newer, featuring more modern electronics and engines, but both are executive-class sedans with front-wheel drive and an Italian character.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
