ALFA ROMEO 156 GTA POLIZIA
Every now and then, something extraordinary happens: you come across people or cars with unique, out-of-the-ordinary stories. Every older car harbors a tale, which can range from plane mundane to the most exciting. Some cars remain abandoned in garages or barns for years, while others have belonged to famous individuals or have played roles in significant historical or competitive events.
At the latest edition of the "Trofeo Milano" (an annual event organized by the oldest club in Milan, the C.M.A.E.), I noticed an intriguing car, standing out from the usual participants. The Trofeo Milano features cars from all eras and origins, including historic vehicles used by police forces. This time, my attention was drawn to a particular Alfa 156 Polizia.
It was a 3rd series model, featuring the facelift designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. Onlookers crowded around the open bonnet, and I approached curiously. To my astonishment, instead of the traditional 2.0 JTS or 1.9 Mjet engine, there was the powerful 3.2 V6 Busso engine usually found in the GTA!
Yes, you read that correctly: essentially, a 156 GTA disguised with the aesthetics of the 3rd series.
Apparently, only two units of this Alfa Romeo 156 3rd series, equipped with the 250 hp 3.2 V6 GTA engine, were ever made. They were delivered to the State Police for the Quirinale Escort Service, which serves the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. These unique cars were specifically set up for escorting the President of the Italian Republic, remaining in service from 2003 to 2010. They escorted President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, the 10th president of the Italian Republic, who served from 1999 to 2006. In 2010, they were replaced by newer 159s and remained unused until 2022, when one of the two was recovered and taken to the Polizia di Stato’s Autocentro in Milan. Thanks to the passion and dedication of the agents at this center, this unique 156 was restored to full functionality, now enjoying a second life by attending historical events and meetings.
The photos in the gallery were taken at the Polizia di Stato Autocentro in Milan, following my first encounter with this remarkable car at the Trofeo Milano event. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated police agents who graciously opened the doors of their facility, allowing us to witness and capture the beauty of this unique Alfa Romeo 156. Their passion and commitment have not only preserved an important piece of automotive history but have also given enthusiasts like us the opportunity to appreciate and celebrate it.
A special thanks to the Autocentro’s director Pier Paolo Talani for the availability in organising this shooting.
