The Alfa Romeo 155 is a compact executive saloon launched by Alfa Romeo in early 1992 as the successor to the Alfa Romeo 75. It remained in production through the 1990s and received a notable mid-cycle facelift in early 1995. The model line was gradually superseded by the Alfa Romeo 156 from the late 1990s onward (Alfa Romeo 156).
Overview and characteristics
Conceived as a modern, road-oriented family and executive car, the 155 featured a boxy, aerodynamic profile compared with its predecessor. It typically used transverse-mounted engines with front-wheel drive layouts on standard versions; select high-performance editions offered different drivetrains. The range included a mix of petrol and diesel powerplants to suit everyday use and more spirited driving.
Variants and equipment
Alfa offered the 155 in a variety of trims and special editions to appeal to diverse buyers. Higher-spec versions emphasized sportier suspension, distinctive styling cues and increased standard equipment. Manufacturers also produced homologation and performance variants aimed at motorsport and enthusiasts.
Motorsport and reputation
Sporting versions of the 155 were campaigned in touring-car competition, where the model gained a strong reputation. Alfa Romeo’s involvement in national and international touring-car series in the early 1990s helped promote the 155’s image as a capable, competition-proven saloon.
Legacy
The 155 represented an important transitional model for Alfa Romeo: it modernized the brand’s midsize offering and set the stage for the more rounded, contemporary Alfa Romeo 156 that followed. Today the 155 is remembered for its mix of everyday practicality, sporty intent and a presence in period motorsport.
- Introduced: early 1992
- Facelift: early 1995
- Successor: Alfa Romeo 156