You are right....
There was a thread. Can't find either.
To own an Alfa you have to be very brave. (1) The depreciation is shocking. I have a 2.0L 166, new price €44K. Only 52K on the clock and I'll let you drive it away for €5K cash (2) Timing Belt, big job on the 156/166 and has to be done at 45K miles. Not worth taking a chance on this, I've heard horror stories (3) Main Dealer servicing costs an arm an a leg, I use an Alfa Specialist (isn't cheap but a lot cheaper than the dealers). I've had mine nearly three years, power steering packed in, air conditioning went ( each about 600-700 to fix ) and air conditioning unit blew again over the christmas ( haven't got fixed yet ). Never a days trouble with the engine though.
The 147, my sister had one, gave a lot of trouble with the electrics. A friend of mine has a 156, same difficulties with the electronics.
Tips: Don't buy one without a complete service history. Check that the timing belt has been done. The service manual says it should be done at 72K however Alfa advised all dealerships that you're taking your life in your hands by doing same. Pose the same question on [broken link removed] . All sorts of petrol heads on same that will give you a more complete answer.