I beg to differ; Alfa engines do compare, and very well too... the 2.5 and 3.2 V6's are fantastic engines!
FWD / RWD has
something to do with it, but to be honest i dont think
that many people care / know about this when purchasing a car. I think image is the primary factor, at least i can guarantee thats the truth here in the UK. My friend has an A3. Does he know if its FWD, or RWD? No, he just knows its an Audi. Thats all that counts for him, and many others like him. If Lancia's image can be fixed, which i think it can (with the help of a BMW association and sexy Italian styling), they're in with a shot.
Over to you