Engines
The 240 PS (177 kW; 237 hp) 3.2-litre V6 offered good all-round performance but is prone to torque steer while the 1.9-litre JTD turbodiesel has proven to be a popular choice in comparison to the petrol 2.0-litre engine. The 3.2-litre V6 petrol unit was positioned as the 'sports' option with its large power output and distinctive Alfa Romeo exhaust note, unique to the Alfa V6 family of engines. The 1.8 Twin Spark petrol engine was lifted directly from the 156, it is a tried and tested unit giving respectable levels of power while still remaining economical. The 2.0L petrol has direct injection and is an improvement on the older 2.0L petrol unit found in the Alfa 156 on which the GT is based, with an increase of 15 PS (11.0 kW; 14.8 bhp) and better fuel consumption.
The 1.9 L direct injection diesel unit still is the most popular option, the high torque output at low revs gives more of a feeling of power at "normal" road speeds compared to the 2.0-litre petrol which requires much higher revs to produce its maximum power output and is best suited to being driven hard. This combined with the significant gain in fuel economy (see statistics below) make the diesel a popular choice. The economy of the diesel combined with the power and 6 speed gearbox make it a real GT car with a range of around 600 miles (970 km) per tank at motorway speeds.
Brakes and suspension
For stopping power, there are 284 mm (11.2 in) ventilated discs up front and 276 mm (10.9 in) at the rear. The most powerful version 3.2 V6 has 330 mm (13.0 in) ventilated discs at front. The GT comes as standard with anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution and hydraulic brake assistance.
Despite it being a two-door or coupé, the GT does not have a 2+2 seating configuration but is a five-seater.. This is because of the 156 heritage, sharing the chassis. Entrance to the rear of a GT is via foldable front seats. The GT is also in fact a 3 door with a hatchback allowing access to a large rear boot.
The latest technological advances were incorporated, such as VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) which is Alfa's version of ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) or Traction Control, EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), ABS, Brake Assist and later the Q2 System. The Q2 system is Alfa's highly developed and efficient Limited-Slip Differential technology, for improved cornering (particularly in the wet) and power transfer to the wheels. This reduces wheel spin, torque steer and eliminates the understeer common to front-wheel drive cars.
Details like the wheel camber being set at a negative specification to improve cornering capabilities, as in a track vehicle, were included. Hardened and modified suspensions as opposed to the 156, thus sacrificing marginally on ride comfort for road holding. Extreme body-hugging, adjustable leather seats for minimal lateral movement during hard cornering. All of the above made the GT appealing to the performance-oriented customer.
However, Alfa Romeo integrated luxury with its 'caged panther' concept by ensuring the car was highly equipped, with standard features like power steering, trip computer, air conditioning, reverse assist, dual climate control, airbags (including 'curtain' airbags) with internal passenger sensors to decide remotely which airbags to deploy, side-mirror defrosters, and cruise control, plus options like seat warmers, leather interior, ten CD changer, satellite radio controls and windscreen sensors for automatic wiper activation.
The combined effect of these specifications created a highly developed, responsive and maneuverable vehicle at high speeds and in challenging conditions, making it safer and comfortable to drive every day at conventional speeds
