Has Alfa Romeo Really Not Made Any Good Cars Since The 90s?

"You can't be a true petrolhead until you've owned an Alfa Romeo" - Jeremy Clarkson.

That's a quote which says a lot about the Alfa Romeo brand and its cars. Even more admiring words were spoken some 100 years earlier by Henry Ford - "Every time I see an Alfa Romeo pass by , I lift my hat."

Admittedly, in recent years there has been a lot of criticism towards Alfas and not without reason. Jezza said "they haven't made a decent car since the 90s". That is a hugely overexaggerated statement and here's why:

• in 2001 Alfa 147 was awarded European Car of the Year award. It's sporty version the GTA has seen huge acclaim from numerous motoring journalists over the years and is still considered a very cool car.
• in 2003 Alfa launched the GT - a very beautiful vehicle based on the successful 147.
• in 2004 the spectacularly designed Alfa 159 appeared. It had a sedan and estate version. Based on the 159, was the Alfa Romeo Brera which is considered to be one of the best car designs of all time.
• in 2007 Alfa launched the 8C limited edition supercar, setting the bar for design appeal even higher
• in 2008 they launched the MiTo, which doesn't have much going for it, but is undeniably a cute little car
• in 2009 they introduced a bigger hatchback called Guilietta

I don't see any bad cars in the list above. The German cars of this period are probably much better in every possible measurable way, but in the end, its the Alfa which conquers your heart.

It's worth mentioning that the above were mostly (without the 8C) European models, which were not sold in the US. The last model sold in the US was the 164 and Alfa have just reentered the US market with the 4C and the all new Guilia and Stelvio, which are beyond awesome.

Alfas have always had and will continue to have their quirks and we love them regardless. This alone proves that Alfas have soul and are more than just a means of transportation.

Any Alfisti here, who wish to back me up with a cool photo of their pride and joy?