Best Car Reviews - 1987 Alfa Romeo GTV

Introduction

Unveiled in 1987, the Alfa Romeo GTV represents an era of stylistic prowess and undeniable Italian charm. Crafted for enthusiasts of spirited drives and elegant design, this model was tailored to attract a youthful, performance-seeking audience. With its unique blend of classic styling and dynamic capabilities, the Alfa Romeo GTV stands out not only as a mode of transport but as a cherished piece of automotive history.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1987 Alfa Romeo GTV is an embodiment of agile design and compact allure. Featuring a low stance and sleek lines, this minicompact car harbors a vintage yet timeless appeal. The perfect combination of curves and sharp edges makes it a head-turner on any street.

Distinctive wedge shape that hints at aerodynamic efficiency
Quad headlights giving it a bold front fascia
Classic Alfa Romeo front grille adding a touch of elegance
Tail-end spoiler for a sporty look
14-inch alloy wheels providing a touch of flair and support

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 1987 GTV reveals a cabin that binds functionality with minimalistic luxury. Crafted with care, it features quality materials meant to soothe even the most discerning drivers.

Supportive bucket seats with high-quality leather finish
Driver-centric dashboard featuring easy-to-reach controls
Manual air-conditioning to maintain cabin comfort
Leather-wrapped steering wheel for a premium touch
Limited cargo space but enough for daily adventures

Performance and Handling

At the heart of the GTV is a robust 6-cylinder engine powered by regular gasoline, ensuring a host of exhilarating drives. With a rear-wheel-drive configuration and a manual 5-speed transmission, this car is a pure delight for driving purists.

Engine: FFS, ensuring smooth power delivery
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in about 8 seconds
Fuel consumption of 15.66 l/100 km, indicative of its powerful performance
Taut suspension setup assisting with precise corner handling
Smooth, engaging drive whether cruising the city or blasting along the highway

Technology and Connectivity

Although hailing from a different technological era, the GTV impresses with its basic yet thoughtful tech features geared towards driver engagement and comfort.

Basic analog dials providing essential driving information
AM/FM radio system ensuring entertainment on the go
Limited connectivity options due to the vintage nature
Emphasis on driver engagement over distracting tech features

Safety Features

Safety may not be the hallmark of an '80s sports car, but the GTV includes essential features that were advanced for its time.

Crumple zones designed to absorb impact
Dual side mirrors for improved visibility
Disc brakes on all four wheels for effective stopping power

Pricing and Variants

Originally priced competitively for its class, the GTV's value has shifted due to its collectible status. In the '80s, the base price was affordable, but current vintage interest may affect price expectations.

Base price in 1987: Approximately $20,000
Competes with similar minicompact cars offering unique Italian flair

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional design synonymous with Italian craftsmanship
Engaging manual transmission for purist driving experience
Smooth rear-wheel-drive performance
Iconic styling that remains in vogue
Collector’s appeal, maintaining interest and value

Cons

Limited modern tech features, lacking contemporary connectivity
Fuel efficiency is not impressive by today’s standards
Limited rear seating space, making it impractical for families
Potential maintenance issues reflective of the era
Low safety ratings compared to current standards

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a vintage car like the GTV involves routine care to keep it pristine. Anticipate annual maintenance costs to be higher due to its classic nature.

Common issues might include:
- Electrical system faults
- Aging interior materials
- Corrosion on body panels
- Classic suspension wear
- Engine component degradation

Rating

Delivering an engaging experience, the 1987 Alfa Romeo GTV scores favorably across several categories.

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 6/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 5/10
Safety: 6/10
Overall rating: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Real-world feedback from GTV owners shines with enthusiasm and some reservations:

"The design stands the test of time, always turns heads!"
"Driving it is a magical experience, especially with the manual transmission."
"I love the car, but maintaining it can be a chore."
"Lack of tech doesn’t bother me, the driving experience speaks volumes."
"Great for weekend drives, but daily use can highlight its age."

Best cars in this category

1985 BMW 3 Series
1987 Porsche 924S
1988 Lotus Esprit
1986 Volkswagen Scirocco
1987 Mazda RX-7

Summary

The 1987 Alfa Romeo GTV epitomizes who it’s crafted for — automotive enthusiasts yearning for an authentic driving experience mixed with Italian flair. While it lacks modern convenience, its classic charm and personality resonate with aficionados of vintage motoring. Overall, the GTV's captivating design and spirited performance maintain its allure, making it a cherished collectible for those passionate about automotive history.