The typical eBay hunt for Alfas starts by sorting from old to new, and often, sorting by manual transmissions only as well. Automatics are acceptable in two circumstances - with Milanos, because an automatic rear transaxle is too weird to ignore, and on 164s, because according to many, they fit the character of the car very well. Not our first choice, but we can how some might enjoy it. Now, when scrolling through the prospects, there is a distinctive split between 1995 and 2016 where Alfa pulled away from the North American market. It's right at that split that we find the most special 164, the 164 Q.

The 164 platform makes no case for itself on paper - FWD, mid-size, shared with Fiat, Saab, and Lancia - and yet on the road it is one of the most engaging sedans we've driven. Power is available early in all models, the steering is direct and responsive, and the ride is firm but capable of handling potholes. The 164Q improves on the basis of the 164 with a 232bhp 24V version of the Busso V6 and electronically controlled dampers. The dampers we could do without - they're getting difficult to source these days - but the extra maintenance requirements of the 24V V6 are justified by the impressive acceleration. Merging onto the interstate in a 24V 164, you will be tempted to wring out 3rd, if not 4th gear.

Year: 1995
Model:  Alfa Romeo 164Q
Engine: 3.0L V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  98,000
Price: Auction
Location: Chico, CA

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1995 Alfa Romeo 164Q

1995 Alfa Romeo 164Q, black/tan, 98,000 original miles, 230hp 3.0 24valve Busso V6, one of only 384 made that year for the US market. Engine and transmission are excellent! The car is a blast to drive. Garage kept since it’s original purchase. No rust just minor dings and scratches. Original wheels and new tires. Interior is in excellent shape no tears. A/C blows cold, gauges all work. A fine example of this model. Only selling because too busy with 3 other Alfa projects and need garage space.

The general condition of this example seems to be above average, and we would imagine that the paint appears to be in good shape when viewed in person given that the car has been garage-kept since new. Make sure that the HVAC stepper motors have been upgraded to brass gears, and get a history on timing belt and water pump service. Neither are outside the realm of DIY repairs, though the timing belt job will require borrowing the special Alfa Romeo tools to properly set the tension. This car seems to be in great shape and well-cared for - hopefully an inspection in person confirms our hunch.

We had a 164L daily driver for about a year before we started daily driving a Fiat 500 Abarth. Like in the Abarth, in a 164, mundane trips become something of an event, and every single turn on the route is slightly more enjoyable. Taking off from a stoplight, the Busso V6 will be slightly muffled, but you'll hear it nonetheless and won't mind the chance to row through the gears, should the next light turn red. The seller of this example has set a very high reserve, and we don't know if they will get any bids with a starting bid at $10,000. A 164Q in this condition is becoming very rare though, so for those in search of the best one on the market, this one is worth considering.

-Graham