As Alfa Romeo moved towards the 1990s, big changes were in store for the marque. Chief among these was the switch to front wheel drive for the entire lineup, include their large executive sedan, the 164. This was the last car to be designed by Alfa Romeo before Fiat purchased the company and was the first Alfa Romeo to be designed with computer aided technology. The 164 shared it's platform with the Lancia Thema, Fiat Croma and Saab 9000. It was the last to be introduced among the four models and had a bespoke front suspension and notably better build quality than earlier Alfa Romeos. Even an electronically controlled suspension was available in the 164 Cloverleaf and 164 S models. This particular 1991 164L represents the first year the 164 was sold in the US market and has the earlier 12 valve V6 engine mated to a 5-speed manual.
1991 Alfa Romeo 164L
1991 Alfa Romeo 164L. Two-owner California car from new with 143,672 miles. All original. New front factory leather seats that cost thousands of dollars. Rear seats are in very good condition, with the exception of the stitching coming loose at the tops (a common problem with these seats). A side marker lens is cracked. Leather wrap on steering wheel is nice, but not perfect showing some wear. Engine runs strong, clutch and brakes are good. All gears shift smoothly. Horn, lights, heater good. AC needs re-charging. Rear windows need switches replaced.
Front windows are fine. Mostly original paint – a few dings, chips and small repairable dents. One area, about ¼ inch square, at the upper right rear window surround needs repair since a small rust hole is present (see photo), there is surface rust where the paint peeled away around the top of the left front strut – otherwise no rust and an area was previously bumped out at the right rear corner (see photo). Side view mirrors and driver’s door handle need re-paint. A tie rod end may need replacing, since I hear a “clunk” when I back up and turn the wheel. The car rides and drives great. Really a nice road car for the money, with everything covered with leather inside.
The interior is in great shape – dash, gauges, door panels, carpet etc… all are very nice. Headliner is good – but needs cleaning. Driver’s side seatbelt retracting spring is not working. Horn knobs are worn and the on/off button for the radio shows wear from use. Engine is clean. Fluids are clean, with new Castrol oil and filter. Tires are very nice, almost brand new, but fronts and rears are different brands. Car is quick and a blast to drive. One set of keys comes with the car. It has the small alarm box key. Comes with the correct spare, tools, jack and an added bonus – a battery shutoff switch professionally installed. This is a lot of car for the money.
The previous owner was an Alfa enthusiast since the early 1960s, purchased the car in 1996 with 57,821 miles. He recently passed away. The correct documentation comes with the title to register the car. The car has been out of registration since 10/2011. The car is sold as is, where is. Low reserve for a very nice Alfa. With some cosmetic work, this Alfa could be spectacular. You’re starting with a beautiful interior and a mechanically sound car.
This isn't the most mint condition vehicle we have featured, but with a little bit of TLC and for the right price, you could have a daily driver and stand out from the crowd, especially when you put your foot down and hear that sonorous V6 exhaust note.
-Paul
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