Alfas can also be demanding, frustrating cars to own. They are not so much unreliable, as difficult to understand and troubleshoot when problems do arise. "Alfa Romeo Owner's Bible" gives you precisely the kind of experienced information you need to serenely buy, maintain and drive an Alfa.

Head gasket repairs, valve adjustments, camshaft timing, carburetor and SPICA fuel injection tuning, and driveshaft "donut" replacement are just a few of the many maintenance and repair procedures explained and backed up by hundreds of step-by-step photos. This tremendously valuable information is crucial to owning, understanding and driving an Alfa, even if you don't work on it yourself.

You will also get expert advice on things you should know when buying a used Alfa-specifically, where to look for rust problems, or signs of neglect or abuse-plus high-performance tuning for street and track, choosing accessories, and fascinating marque history.

Author Pat Braden has owned and maintained more than 50 Alfas and is a columnist and former editor of Alfa Owner magazine. Though many fine books have been published on Alfa Romeo, this is the only book that provides you with the experienced, hands-on guidance you need to keep you in the driver's seat. No Alfa lover should be without it.

Alfa models are discussed according to history, engine, chassis and trouble spots. And that means that this one volume contains important information needed to understand and enjoy one of these Alfas, as well as to perform many minor service tasks.

Braden starts with a brief overview of Alfa Romeo history, followed by a look at Alfa's presence in America. He also explores the major models of coupe, spider and berlina that used the all-alloy four-cylinder, as well as the limited production variants. Of course, he also gives much attention to that mighty engine itself. Braden explains the design and history of the engine, as well as exploring trouble spots and offering extensive advice and tips. Additional technical sections focus on the fuel system, transmission, brakes and chassis, not to mention overall restoration.

Alfa Romeo All-Alloy Twin Cam Companion is a key to getting the absolute maximum benefit and enjoyment out of Alfa.