Choosing the right battery for your Alfa Romeo 147 produced between 2000 and 2010 is essential for reliable daily operation and to ensure your vehicle’s systems work flawlessly, especially during cold starts or after longer periods of inactivity. Alfa Romeo 147s from this era do not come equipped with Start-Stop systems, which means you can select from standard lead-acid batteries rather than the more modern AGM or EFB types required in newer vehicles with energy-saving technologies. The proper battery selection depends on the engine type, as each variant has specific requirements in terms of capacity (Ah) and cold cranking amperage (CCA), ensuring optimal performance tailored to the engine’s demands.
For petrol engines such as the 1.6 16V Twin Spark, the recommended battery capacity ranges between 50 and 58 Ah, with a cold cranking amperage of 420 to 540 A. For these engines, a conventional lead-acid battery is suitable, offering both affordability and reliability for everyday driving. Some example compatible battery models for the 1.6 Twin Spark include Bosch S40 02, Bosch S50 02, Exide EA530, Exide EB500, Halfords HCB 012, Lucas LP079, Lucas LS012, Varta C22, and Varta C30. These models are widely available in the aftermarket and offer a good balance of power and durability for the relatively modest electrical demands of the 1.6-liter petrol engine.
If you drive an Alfa Romeo 147 with a larger petrol engine, such as the 2.0, 2.0 16V Twin Spark, or the high-performance 3.2 GTA, the requirements increase. For these variants, a battery with a capacity of 60 to 65 Ah and a cold cranking amperage between 540 and 640 A is recommended. Again, standard lead-acid batteries are the preferred choice. Example compatible models for these engines include Bosch S40 05, Bosch S50 05, Exide EA640, Exide EB620, Halfords HCB 027, Lucas LP027, Lucas LS027, Varta D15, and Varta D24. These batteries provide additional starting power which is especially important for the more powerful engines, helping to ensure smooth ignition and support for all electronic systems.
For drivers of diesel versions, such as the 1.9 JTD, 1.9 JTD 16V, 1.9 JTDM 8V, or 1.9 JTDM 16V, the battery requirements are notably higher due to the greater power needed to start diesel engines, especially in colder climates. These models require a battery with a capacity between 74 and 78 Ah and a cold cranking amperage ranging from 680 to 780 A. Lead-acid batteries remain the standard recommendation for these diesels, given their ability to deliver high bursts of current. Some suitable example models for these engines are Bosch S40 08, Bosch S50 08, Exide EA770, Exide EB740, Halfords HCB 096, Lucas LP096, Lucas LS096, Varta E11, and Varta E44. Such batteries are particularly robust and designed to handle the increased starting loads typical for diesel vehicles.
When choosing a battery, it is important not only to match the specified capacity and cold cranking amperage but also to consider the physical dimensions and terminal layout, ensuring the battery fits securely in the battery compartment of your Alfa Romeo 147. Most aftermarket retailers list compatible batteries by vehicle make and model, but it is always wise to double-check the measurements and terminal positions before purchasing.
One interesting fact is that the Alfa Romeo 147, despite its age, features a complex electrical system for its time, supporting amenities such as electric windows, climate control, and advanced audio systems. A battery that is too small or underpowered may struggle to keep up with these demands, especially if you frequently make short trips or use many electrical accessories while the engine is off. Conversely, a battery with higher capacity and CCA than the minimum required can offer a margin of safety, particularly in harsh weather conditions, although it should always fit the physical space provided.
In summary, selecting the appropriate battery for your Alfa Romeo 147 involves considering the engine size, fuel type, and specific power requirements. Sticking to the recommended capacities and choosing from reputable brands, such as those mentioned above as examples, will help ensure your car starts reliably every time and that all onboard electronics function as intended. Regularly checking your battery’s condition and keeping terminals clean will further extend its lifespan and maintain your Alfa’s legendary Italian flair on the road.
Alfa Romeo 147 was produced in the years 2000 – 2010. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Alfa Romeo 147 (2000-2010):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Alfa Romeo 147 – petrol engines:
- 1.6 16V Twin Spark
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 02 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 02 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB500 | 50 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA530 | 53 Ah 540 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 012 | 52 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP079 | 50 Ah 420 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS012 | 58 Ah 520 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic C22 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic C30 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
For the Alfa Romeo 147 equipped with the 1.6 16V Twin Spark petrol engines produced between 2000 and 2010, selecting the correct battery is essential for reliable starting and proper functioning of all onboard electrical systems. These engines do not feature start-stop technology, so they require standard lead-acid batteries rather than enhanced or AGM types. The most suitable battery group for these engines adheres to the following specifications: a capacity in the range of 50 to 58 Ah, a cold cranking amperage (CCA) between 420 and 540 A, and dimensions of approximately 207-210 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height. The batteries should have a standard European terminal layout (layout 0, terminal type 1), and the B13 hold-down system, which ensures secure mounting in the battery tray of the Alfa Romeo 147.
Recommended batteries for the 1.6 16V Twin Spark include models from leading manufacturers such as Bosch, Varta, Exide, Halfords, and Lucas. Examples are the Bosch S4 (S40 02) and S5 (S50 02) with capacities of 52 and 54 Ah and CCA ratings of 470 and 530 A, as well as the Varta Blue Dynamic (C22) and Silver Dynamic (C30) with similar capacities and starting power. Exide offers the Premium (EA530) and Excell (EB500) series, with capacities from 50 to 53 Ah and CCA up to 540 A, while Halfords Standard (HCB 012) and Lucas Supreme (LS012) or Premium (LP079) provide further compatible options. All these batteries are designed for conventional mounting and offer the necessary power and fit for the 1.6 16V Twin Spark engine versions.
Choosing a battery from this group ensures that the electrical demands of the Alfa Romeo 147’s petrol engines are fully met, delivering reliable performance and longevity. The focus should always be on matching both the physical size and the electrical specifications to the original equipment, guaranteeing easy installation and trouble-free operation.
Alfa Romeo 147 – petrol engines:
- 2.0
- 2.0 16V Twin Spark
- 3.2 GTA
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP027 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
For the Alfa Romeo 147 models equipped with the 2.0 (including the 2.0 16V Twin Spark) and 3.2 GTA petrol engines, all produced without start-stop technology, battery requirements differ slightly due to increased power demands. These engines, being larger and more powerful than the 1.6 versions, require batteries with higher capacity and greater cold cranking amperage (CCA) to ensure reliable starting and stable operation of all electronic systems, especially in colder climates or during frequent short journeys. It is important to use a standard lead-acid battery and avoid AGM or EFB types, as these engines are not equipped with start-stop systems.
The recommended battery category for the 2.0 and 3.2 GTA engines includes units with a capacity ranging from 60 to 65 Ah and a CCA between 540 and 640 A. The physical dimensions for these batteries are typically 242 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, ensuring a perfect fit in the Alfa Romeo 147’s battery compartment. All suggested batteries feature the standard European terminal layout (layout 0) and terminal type 1, with the B13 hold-down system for secure installation. These specifications are crucial for proper mounting and to avoid any issues related to size or terminal orientation.
Within this group, top choices include the Bosch S4 (S40 05) and S5 (S50 05), Varta Blue Dynamic (D24) and Silver Dynamic (D15), Exide Premium (EA640) and Excell (EB620), as well as options from Halfords (HCB 027) and Lucas (LS027 and LP027). All these batteries are designed to meet the higher electrical demand of the 2.0 and 3.2 GTA engines, providing robust starting power, consistent performance, and reliability. Opting for one of these batteries ensures optimal functioning of both the engine and the various electrical systems present in the higher-spec Alfa Romeo 147 variants.
Alfa Romeo 147 – diesel engines:
- 1.9 JTD
- 1.9 JTD 16V
- 1.9 JTDM 16V
- 1.9 JTDM 8V
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
For the Alfa Romeo 147 diesel variants produced between 2000 and 2010—specifically the 1.9 JTD, 1.9 JTD 16V, 1.9 JTDM 8V, and 1.9 JTDM 16V engines, all without start-stop systems—the battery requirements are notably higher than those for the petrol models. Diesel engines demand more starting power, especially in colder conditions, so the chosen battery must deliver a substantial cold cranking amperage (CCA) while also fitting securely within the existing battery tray. For these engines, the recommended battery group features capacities in the range of 74 to 78 Ah, with a CCA between 680 and 780 A. The physical dimensions should be 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, which corresponds to the most common size found in European compact diesel cars of this era.
All batteries suited for these diesel variants should have the standard European terminal layout (layout 0), terminal type 1, and use the B13 hold-down system for secure mounting. This ensures both compatibility with the vehicle’s original wiring and an easy, trouble-free installation. The higher capacity and cranking power are especially important for supporting the diesel preheating system and the increased compression of these engines, ensuring reliable starts and consistent performance throughout the year.
Among the most recommended options for these Alfa Romeo 147 diesel engines are the Bosch S4 (S40 08) and S5 (S50 08), which offer 74 and 77 Ah capacities with 680 and 780 A CCA, respectively. Varta also provides excellent choices with the Blue Dynamic (E11) and Silver Dynamic (E44), delivering similar power and reliability. Exide’s Premium (EA770) and Excell (EB740) series, as well as batteries from Halfords (HCB 096) and Lucas (Supreme LS096 and Premium LP096), are all fully compatible, featuring the necessary capacity and cranking ability to meet the demands of the 1.9 JTD and JTDM engines. Selecting one of these batteries guarantees optimal performance, long service life, and peace of mind for Alfa Romeo 147 diesel owners.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Alfa Romeo 147 , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!