Model History

The 205 GTI had everything when new – sharp handling, light weight for added chuckability, and an unburstable engine that sings the more you rev it.

Ever since the first 1.6-litre 205 GTI went on sale in April 1984, the eulogies to the car have appeared thick and fast. With 105hp on tap from its all-alloy 1580cc four-pot, superb handling, and reasonable build quality, the 205 GTI soon became a favourite with the motoring press and car buyers alike. Sometimes owners got a bit carried away and overcooked it on the bends, sometimes those who pranged the car had ‘borrowed' it without asking, but everyone who drove it reckoned the little Pug was one of the best drives available, at any money.

In 1985 Peugeot's barking mad 205 T16 rally car won the World Rally Championship, and in 1986 the convertible 205 GTI went on sale, neatly badged the CTI. Peugeot were on the crest of a wave with their small hatch.

Things got even more fun – and more easily out of shape – when the 1.9-litre car arrived in January 1987 with 130hp and disc brakes all round. So that it wasn't overshadowed by its bigger brother, tweaks to the cylinder head and camshaft in 1987 meant power for the 1.6-litre car rose to 115hp.

Equipment

Graphite Grey metallic paintwork, Half leather / grey cloth upholstery, 15-inch alloy wheels, 5-speed manual transmission, Electric windows, Three-spoke leather steering wheel, Digital clock, Original Philips cassette player, Lockable glove compartment, Cigarette lighter, Ash tray, Tailored GTI overmats, Spare wheel.

Exterior

Despite its 100k+ miles, this 205 presents very well. The metallic grey paintwork is in good order throughout with only minor age-related blemishes to be found on close inspection. Looking along both sides, the panels are nice and straight with no parking dents. Pleasingly, this is also a non-sunroof example. All the plastic trims are in fine fettle with no major fading or damage to report.

VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Interior

The interior space has worn very well for its age, and the red carpets are still bright throughout. The seat bases have not sagged, and the leather remains in good condition (a smaller repair to the upper driver’s bolster is being addressed). The steering wheel does show a few marks upon close inspection, but it is still the original leather so nothing to be ashamed of. The original factory Philips stereo is thankfully still in place (a rare sight these days). Other items such as the gear knob are undamaged, as is the dashboard with no cracks to report; even the delicate coin holder lid is still working as it should.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The peppy 1.9-litre engine bursts into life and pulls through the rev range eagerly. The engine feels strong and responsive. As with most 205 GTIs, the gearbox is an absolute joy to operate, still feeling smooth and precise. The engine bay also presents remarkably well, the car having been fully re-commissioned and refreshed only 2k miles ago.

History File

This charming Phase 1.5 example in desirable non-sunroof/non-PAS spec was first registered in March 1988. It was supplied new by School Road Motors, Wolverhampton, and has now driven 124k miles in the hands of only 6 registered keepers (current since 2016). The accompanying history file includes the original Peugeot document wallet and handbooks, the original stamped service booklet, a recent clear HPI report, a raft of invoices and MOT certificates dating back to the early 2000s, and the V5C showing 5 former keepers. 

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