What is a Peugeot 205 GTi?

You mean you’ve never driven one or travelled in this 80’s performance hero? VW may have invented the GTi back in 1976 but it was Peugeot who discovered pocket-rocket science with its brilliant 205GTi. It’s a sort of grown up Mini Cooper S but far more practical and versatile. And although Peugeot has continued the bloodline with the 206GTi, nothing has ever quite come close to this masterpiece. Small wonder then that the Gti already has a huge fan club and is already being as hailed as a classic.

History

The 205 GTi hit the streets in 1984. Along with the Fiat Uno Turbo, the pair redefined small performance motoring. Initially powered by a vivid 1.6-litre engine with fuel injection, it fed its 105bhp via a five-speed ‘box to the front wheels. Holding it all down was an advanced independent suspension stopped by a conventional discs/drum braking system. In 1986 major changes took place and the hugely popular Pug completely lost its head to become the CTi Also an even faster 130bhp GTi hatch was introduced, care of a beefier 1.9-litre engine and allround disc brakes.

The smaller 1.6 remained with a 10bhp power hike thanks to the larger-valved 1.9-head being installed. This was about the sum total of the changes until the car bowed out in 1994. An improved dash was fitted in the late 80s, while the 1.6 was discontinued in 1991 – elevating the CTi to 1.9-litres. A year later a cat was plumbed in, dropping the power slightly.

Driving

The fact that Peugeot has yet to replace the GTi in terms of driving thrills tells you everything. On the right roads a good one is still hugely entertaining and incredibly quick. But those razor-sharp reflexes come at a price and the 205 is notorious for its flick over steer on a closed throttle. Catching the slide is made harder due to the GTi’s heavy steering (power steering was extra on later models) that ‘loads up’ when cornering. The open-topped Cti handles not nearly as well and is regarded more a fashion statement.

Most experts reckon that, although the 1.9 is notably quicker, the sweeter 1.6 is the more satisfying drive. When you’re not in the mood to party (it’s hard not to be!) the Gti shows its other side with a typically Peugeot compliant ride, comfortable seats and high levels of refinement for this class of car. Add a roomy hatch and the 205GTi is a car for all reasons.

Prices

Prices for good GTis are rising. Sure you can buy sheds for £1000 or less, but they will be uneconomical to restore – unless you want to keep it for spares (a good idea, too). As the top models hover around the £4-5000 mark, they are hardly overpriced. Expect to pay £3000 for a good usable car with some service history.

There are plenty of tuned and customised models on sale and these are hard to value. Some modifications make the car sparkle but eventually it will be the best of the original standard models that will command the most money and future classic status.