1998 Alfa Romeo 155 2.5 Final Special Edition

£18,950
SOLD

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

The Alfa Romeo 155 V6 Final Special Edition represented the concluding chapter of one of Alfa's most iconic sports saloons from the 1990s. The 155 had already established a strong reputation due to its sharp Italian aesthetics and remarkable motorsport heritage, particularly in touring car competitions, where it excelled in championships throughout Europe. However, by the late 1990s, Alfa Romeo was preparing to introduce the 156, making the Final Special Edition of which  production was limited to just 250, made a noteworthy tribute to the model, targeted at genuine enthusiasts and primarily focused on the Japanese market. 

At its core, was the renowned 2.5 litre 'Busso' V6 engine, an all-aluminium marvel celebrated for its smooth power delivery, distinctive intake sound and unmistakable exhaust note. 

The Final Special Edition generated approximately 166 bhp, transmitted through a five-speed manual transmission to the front wheels. Visually, it distinguished itself with subtle yet purposeful enhancements. These included Speedline alloy wheels, sportier bumpers, wrap around rear spoiler, Brembo brakes, exclusive badging and yellow Carello front fog lamps, differentiating it from previous 155 models.

As with all Final Special Edition models, it came in the sought after "wide body" design. It was initially registered in Japan and boasts a commendable service/inspection history from there, along with a complete record since its arrival in the UK in 2017. 

Number 170 of 250, this outstanding example is offered in superb condition and has recently received some minor recommissioning work.  This included a cambelt, tensioner and water pump service (in December 2024 at a 137,682 kms), as well as comprehensive detailing and underbody preservation works in February 2025. 

The vehicle comes a current MOT test certificate valid until 21st July 2026, extensive history folder and full dealer book pack. Showing 138,005 kms (85,752 miles), the service book shows 11 services up until 101,596 kms (63,130 miles) and with comprehensive UK service, maintenance and parts invoices since 2017. 

These cars are exceptional to drive, offering remarkable handling and a particularly captivating exhaust note, further enhanced by an aftermarket twin exit piped sports exhaust. Today, the Final Special Edition is highly coveted, not only for its scarcity, but also for the enduring charm of the Busso V6 engine, establishing it as one of the most desirable and collectible sports saloons of its time.

Recorded Mileage:
138,005 kms (85,752miles)
Fuel type:
Petrol (unleaded)
Engine capacity:
2492cc
Exterior colour:
Rosso Corsa
Engine output:
166 bhp @ 5800 rpm 159 lb ft @ 4500 rpm
Interior colour/trim:
Two Tone Grey/Cloth
Transmission:
5 speed
Date of registration:
01/06/1998 (Date of first registration in the UK 01/11/2017)
Steering:
LHD
MOT expiry:
21/07/2026
Click main image to enlarge
Click main image to enlarge

EXTERIOR

Finished in Rosso Corsa, which we think really suit the lines of the car, it has previously benefited from a high quality respray. None the less, the car was subject to an extensive paintwork inspection and full 2 stage machine polish, finished off with 2 coats of Swiss Vax Crystal Rock wax (containing over 75% Carnuba wax) in February of this year. As such the car presents beautifully with the paintwork in fantastic order. Trim parts, light clusters and badging are also excellent condition and the car shows even panel gaps all round. 

The purposeful stance of the car, enhanced by the deeper front and rear bumpers and wrap around boot spoiler, echoes the look of the successful BTCC and DTM 155 touring cars. The addition of the yellow Carello front fog lights, adds that extra piece of drama, to what is already a stunning design.

INTERIOR & EQUIPMENT

We understand the interior of the car was unique to the Final Special Edition. It features two tone grey cloth with red piping and black ‘leather  look” vinyl side trimming and matching grey cloth door cards. The front seats are comfortable with good side bolstering, providing excellent support when pushing on, without feeling too restrictive like some more aggressively styled sports seats. 

The interior presents in excellent condition, with little to no wear visible on either the seats or carpeting, which is protected front and back with custom over mats. 

The head lining is free from any sagging or discolouration having been replaced in December 2024.

The dash is well laid out and very much driver focused with all instruments and dials in a cluster directly in front of the driver, with climate control operation, check control panel, clock and DAB-compatible Pioneer Radio/CD player, with USB input, located in the centre console. All gauges, switches and operating controls operate as they should.

Highly specified for a 155, it comes with power steering, electric windows all round, leather steering wheel, gear stick gaiter and gear knob, climate control, central locking and electric adjustable mirrors. 

Finally, the rear passenger windows and rear window are fitted with privacy glass.

Click main image to enlarge
Click main image to enlarge

ENGINE, TRANSMISSION & SUSPENSION

Powered by the legendary “Busso” V6 engine, it was described by EVO magazine in August 2011 “as the most glorious-sounding six cylinder road engine ever made”. Classic and Sportscar Magazine also noted it as “the best sounding engine this side of a Maserati V8”. In addition, with its chromed intake manifolds and “Alfa Romeo” embossed ribbed alloy cam covers, it’s also a visual treat, that never disappoints when you open the bonnet.

Whilst in 2.5 litre 12 valve guise, it is not the most powerful of the Busso V6 variants, it still exhibits the linear power delivery, torquey mid-range and willingness to rush to the redline, the Busso V6 engines are renowned for, not to mention the intoxicating engine and exhaust sound track that goes with it. This is further enhanced by the stainless steel from the centre box back stainless sports exhaust system with attractive twin upswept exit pipes.

Recent, invoice history, evidences the all-important a cam belt, tensioner and water pump service in December 2024 this year at 137,682 kms. At the same time the alternator, air con and power steering belts were changed. 

The 5 speed manual gear box has a light direct throw, matched to a light yet progressive clutch pedal. Well thought out gear ratios are well suited to the engines power delivery, allowing for the car to feel both low down torquey, but eager to rev to its redline.

The suspension set-up is standard with MacPherson struts, coil springs, lower wishbones and anti-roll bar secured to a light alloy sub-frame up front. At the rear it’s is swinging arms, coil springs over dampers and anti-roll bar. This set-up provides excellent balance between grip and ride comfort.  On the road there are no squeaks or knocks from the suspension.

WHEELS, BRAKES & TYRES

The car sits on 16” Speedline alloy wheels in gloss black, fitted as standard to the Final Special Editions. The wheels are fitted with the correct OEM sized 205/45 R16 tyres all round, all with significant tread remaining. The spare is a space saver.

Brakes are Brembo-system with ABS and features 4 pot callipers matched with 284 mm grooved, drilled and ventilated discs on the front with 2 pot callipers matched with 240mm solid grooved and drilled discs at the rear. Invoice records evidence new front and rear discs and pads at 128k kms.

On the road braking is progressive and strong with no pulling to either left or right.

The car comes with its original tool kit and jack.

Click main image to enlarge
Click main image to enlarge

UNDERSIDE

As can be seen from the photos, the underside presents very well, still retaining its original under seal to all floor pans and inner wings. In addition, many of the original “witness marks” to underside bolts applied from the factory are still present. This is certainly not typical of most 155s that have been driven in the UK all year round and a true testament to what a special and original example this car is. 

As part of the pre-sales preparation, the entire underside, sills, wheel arches as well as all suspension, mechanical and braking componentry, were thoroughly cleaned with any surface corrosion identified, wire-brushed and treated. Then the entire underside and all mechanical componentry were coated with several coats of clear DINITROL automotive rust prevention and corrosion protection treatment. This provides the car with jet-wash resistant, long-term corrosion protection, which improves on the factory finish and is especially important for cars driven all year round in the UK. 

FIND OUT ABOUT THE DOCUMENTED HISTORY

DOCUMENTED HISTORY

The car comes with its current V5C showing just 3 former owners and clear HPI check dated 8h October 2025.  The documents file also includes a certification system from Fiat Auto Japan, confirming the car is no. 170 of 250 155 Final Special Edition models, exclusively sold in Japan in 1998.

There is  a number of UK MOT certificates including its current, that is valid until 16/07/26, together with a number of invoices for UK maintenance since arriving in 2017. 

The file also includes a large number of Japanese documentation supporting the 11 entries in the service manual covering distances covered from 2,640 to 101,596 kms. Which with its UK history goes to support its mileage as genuine.

The car come’s with its original dealer pack, containing its service book, owner’s manual, radio code card, dealer pricing booklet, Fiat Auto Japan service network guide and aftermarket Pioneer radio/cd player owner’s manual.

Finally, the car comes with 2 sets of keys and alarm fob, including the important brown “master” key.

Finally, please note that the registration number “OO04 LFA”, is not included in the listed sale price. Any purchaser of the car can agree to purchase this registration no. by separate negotiation.  Unless otherwise agreed, the car will be sold with its original registration no. WN55 SWW.

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DISCLAIMER

Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy of the vehicle descriptions and information, some inaccuracies may occur. It is important that you do not rely on this information but check with Montpellier Motor Cars Limited about any items which may affect your decision to buy this vehicle, as well as examine the vehicle and check the accuracy of the information before purchasing any vehicle. We cannot accept any liability arising from any errors in the data provided.

Whilst every effort is made to represent details accurately on our Web Site, variations or errors may occur and so the information contained herewith does not constitute an offer for sale of any particular vehicle, accessory or specification.

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