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[alfissimo]

Hi all
Have posted about this on alfaowner.com too - just wondering if the P4 is a decent buy, or if it should be avoided...what should you look for? Is it good to drive, plenty of power etc? I had a 1.6 Boxer-engined 145, so would be really nice to have a more powerful version...
I didn't realise the P4 really was that rare, seems like an interesting car
Is the 4wd system exclusive to Alfa? I understand it can be a bit of a problem?
...and what's this about low speed juddering?
Cheers,
Daniel

[DrD]

The 4WD was used and developed by Lancia on the Integrale
Hint - the little Badge inside the engine compartment on 33s
(well iine) says Lancia-Alfa Romeo

[tvatavuk]

Hi Permanet 4 will be a bit quicker then yours 145, but due to 4x4 extra weight it is slower on straight in accel to normal FWD 16v 33. Having said that P4 due to 4x4 will stay glued to ground where 33 16v will have understeer/slide.
Yes that system is exclusive on that Alfa it was developed by Styer/Puch. Same company also made simialr but not same design 4x4 for Golf Syncro/Opel Calibra.
Insterad of "real" mechanic central diff there is Viscous coupling in place which tries to even speed of front and rear thus making juddering /knocking /bumping /BANGing on full lock.
Depending on state of viscous coupling mounts noise and earthquakes will be more or less noticable. 1st visco mount is almost imposible to find new or used in good shape, while 2nd mount is same as on all 33 4x4 and Alfa 75 so they still could be found somewhere.
IMHO In terms of speed it is upgrade but I'm affraid that in terms of other things like spares avail. and repairs it could be downgrade from 145. If it's speed you're after why not 145 QV/146 TI, good brakes not boxer sound but more powerfull engine and same traction you're used to.
_________________
Tino Vatavuk
Little black dress which replaced Alfa Romeo 33 S 16v Permanent 4 GMo