This year, Peugeot celebrates big, as one of its most successful models marks its 40th anniversary. On February 24, 1983, Peugeot introduced a small hatchback with the three-digit number 205, which marked its entry into the compact car category. A year after its introduction, the little French car was named Car of the Year, and in 1990, the CAR Magazine even labeled the 205 as the car of the decade.
The Peugeot 205 featured a wide range of engines under its hood. The smallest was a 1.0-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine with a 33 kW (45 hp) output. This model had its gearbox mounted on the rear side of the crankshaft, almost directly under the engine. The engine range continued with a more modern 1.1-liter engine producing 44 kW (60 hp) and new engines labeled as TU with a 1.4-liter capacity, offering an agile 55 kW (75 hp). The engines had a distinctive sound as they were tilted 30° towards the cabin and were labeled by Peugeot as the XU code. Initially, they had a 1.6-liter capacity, and after the model’s modernization, the largest units, the legendary 1.9-liter engines, arrived. The most powerful version of the 205 model reached a remarkable 96 kW (130 hp). However, let's not forget the weight; the luxurious GTI hatchback weighed 935 kilograms. In the case of diesel versions, customers had a choice of a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine and later, a 1.9-liter engine. Peugeot also fitted a front-wheel turbodiesel 1.8 engine with an output of 57 kW (78 hp). Remarkably, during the 15 years (1983 – 1998), an incredible 5,278,300 units of the Peugeot 205 were produced.
The most valuable are the sporty models with the GTI attribute, though their numbers have decreased over the years. Today, the price for an exceptionally preserved or quality-renovated model has exceeded the €20,000 mark. One such model is currently for sale in its native France. This white GTI was manufactured in 1989, making it a post-modernization model with a new instrument panel, clear turn signals, and different rear lights. When new, it was sold in France. At the beginning of this year, it came into the hands of the current owner, who took great care in renovating the vehicle.
The car's exterior was completely repainted due to the strong French sunlight that had dulled the body. All plastic body parts were repaired - door frames and fenders that deform and crack over time due to weather influences. The original Speedline SL299 wheels were also renovated, fitted with new Pirelli P1 tires. The 205 GTI's condition on the outside is perfect, as is the interior. The cabin was dismantled to the last detail. They replaced the carpet insulation, door linings, reupholstered the leather-textile seats, repaired the dashboard, and subtly updated the outdated sound system while maintaining the factory look. The owner also states that all seals around the windows and doors were replaced. After many years, these cars can sometimes experience leaks.
Repairs under the hood mainly involved consumable parts and parts that lose their elasticity over time. The XU9 received a new timing belt, water pump, clutch, coolant management, ignition module, and spark plugs. Fresh oil and filters are a given. The engine is in good condition, still delivering its 130 horsepower, and the gearbox runs smoothly. Brake discs and pads were also replaced on both axles. The white Peugeot 205 GTI is ready to go and relive the fun on your favorite county roads. The odometer has only reached 178,500 kilometers, equivalent to the number of smiles in the driver's seat. The current owner even provides a 6-month warranty on mechanical parts, with the possibility of extension. The price for this model is €26,050.
If you were looking for a 205 GTI in Slovakia, we found a freshly renovated piece originating from Scandinavia. The Peugeot was manufactured in 1988, painted in graphite grey metallic, and also has a 1.9-liter engine, albeit with a lower output of 75 kW (102 hp). The Slovak GTI's advantage lies in its exclusive equipment for Nordic countries, such as heated seats, and the vehicle also features a large sunroof. The Peugeot is located near Nitra, and the owner is asking €19,000 for it. You can find contact information and the complete vehicle description at this link.
Text: Mateo
Photo: Classic Trader
