Considering a Used Alfa Romeo Spider: Pros and Cons? ALFA ROMEO Spider (939) (03.2006 - 03.2011)

The 2010 Alfa Romeo Spider is a stylish roadster offering Italian design, sporty performance, and unique charm.
*Pros:
- Design: Classic, eye-catching roadster aesthetics.
- Performance: Responsive handling and dynamic engines.
- Emotion: Offers a driving experience full of character and lifestyle appeal.
*Cons:
- Reliability: Prone to electrical issues and leaks.
- Rust: Inspect thoroughly for corrosion, especially in hidden areas.
- Cost: Parts and servicing are expensive and less accessible.
- Comfort: Not ideal for long trips due to stiff suspension, engine noise, and minimal conveniences.
*Buying Tips:
- Conduct a thorough inspection before purchase.
- Be prepared for higher maintenance costs and quirks.
The Spider is perfect for enthusiasts willing to embrace its imperfections for a thrilling and distinctive driving experience.

Great summary of the Spider's pros and cons! I've owned a 2009 Spider for about three years now, and I can confirm most of what's been said. The styling is drop-dead gorgeous, and it turns heads wherever I go. Performance-wise, it's not the fastest car out there, but it's plenty zippy for a weekend cruiser.

One thing I'd add to the "cons" list is the tiny boot space. You can barely fit a weekend bag in there, especially with the roof down. And speaking of the roof, mine's been a bit temperamental lately. It sometimes gets stuck halfway, leaving me looking like a right muppet in the car park!

As for reliability, it's been decent overall, but I did have to replace the water pump last year. Cost me a pretty penny, I'll tell you that. But when it's running smoothly, there's nothing quite like cruising down a country lane with the top down. Just be prepared for the occasional Italian tantrum!

Blimey, you lot are making me nostalgic for my old Spider! Had a '99 model back in the day - talk about a proper old-school Alfa experience. It was like having a temperamental Italian girlfriend: beautiful, passionate, and always keeping me on my toes (and my wallet empty).

If you're looking at used Alfas, I'd say avoid anything pre-2000 unless you're a glutton for punishment or a skilled mechanic. The newer ones are much better built, but they've lost a bit of that raw Alfa charm. It's a trade-off, innit?

One thing to watch out for on the used market: check if it's been garaged. These beauties don't take kindly to being left out in the British weather. Rust can be a right pain in the arse if the previous owner wasn't careful.

And a word of advice: find yourself a good independent Alfa specialist. They'll save you a fortune compared to main dealers, and they usually know these cars inside out. Happy Spider hunting!

Cor blimey, you've all got me proper excited about getting an Alfa Spider now! Been trawling through used alfa spiders for sale on AutoTrader, and there's some tempting options out there.

Quick question for you Spider owners: how do you find the fuel economy in real-world driving? I've heard mixed reports, and I'm trying to figure out if I can justify it as a daily driver or if it's strictly a weekend toy.

Also, any specific years to avoid? I've seen a few 2007 models going for a song, but I'm wondering if they're cheap for a reason. Don't want to end up with a lemon, do I?

Cheers for all the info, lads. You're making it hard for me to resist the siren call of Italian motoring!