1986 PEUGEOT 205 GTI 1.9

This 1986 Peugeot 205 GTI is a low-mileage example of a hot hatch hero, which has been modified with a striking bodykit in the style of the genuine Dimma conversions. It is powered by a 1.9-litre inline-four engine, which sends 126bhp to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer indicates 49,913 miles from new.

Much celebrated for its sharp handling, fizzy engine and general fun factor, the 205 GTI was launched in 1984, initially with only the 1.6-litre engine. Two years later, the 1.9 joined the range, bringing with it larger wheels, half-leather seats, and four-wheel disc brakes.

An early 1.9, free of the catalytic converter fitted to later versions, this 205 GTI was first registered on 1 December 1986. While it left the factory painted grey, the DVLA record shows the colour change to green in September 1992 – which is believed to be the time at which the body modifications were carried out. The log book shows nine previous registered keepers, and it is understood to have been in dry storage from around 1998 through to 2016, and has been driven sparingly since then, and kept garaged when not in use. It was acquired by the current owner a year ago.

As is clear from the photos, this car’s body has been substantially altered. Assumed to have been changed in 1992, as noted above, the car has been fitted with wider rear quarter panels, with arches flared out over a broader rear track, while the front wings have also been pushed out to accommodate wider wheels and tyres. While this has a close resemblance to the Terry Pankhurst ‘Dimma’ conversions of the period, it is understood to have been carried out by a different company. There are believed to have only been around 250 official ‘Signature Series’ conversions by Dimma UK – all given a plaque and documentation – so several manufacturers produced similar rally-inspired bodykits to meet demand. The exact origin of this kit is not recorded, but it is clearly of very good quality.

The wider wings at the front and rear were also smoothed to blend into the bespoke bumpers, and a larger tailgate spoiler was installed on the roof. The headlights were changed from single lens casings to dual circular lens units, and the front grille and bonnet were also changed. Finally, the rear wiper and screen washer were removed, and the exterior door locks were ‘deleted’ and smoothed over. The car was then given a full respray in Sorrento Green.

The body transformation has held up well over the years, so was evidently carried out to a high standard. The only flaw noted by the seller is some very minor filler drop in the rear wheel arch extensions – though not to an extent that requires any rectification. Its Sorrento Green paint finish is presented in good condition with minor marks around the panels, including some blemishes to the front splitter and a stone chip between the roof spoiler and tailgate. The car sits on 16-inch Keskin Tuning wheels, which are in sound condition, with no kerb damage or scrapes, but with imperfections to the surface finishes. In the 1990s, this particular car did have genuine Dimma wheels fitted, which may mean it its origins are closer to the genuine conversions than a first glance would suggest.

Inside, the car is fitted with its original seats, upholstered with black leather backings and bolsters, and with green piping, stitching, and chequered cloth centre panels. The seats are in very good condition, no rips or tears, and only modest wear and slight sagging to front seats, commensurate with the age and mileage. Providing a vibrant contrast, bright red carpets are fitted throughout, and are in great shape, although the driver’s rubber heel pad has worn through in some places.

There are also small wear marks visible on the leather steering wheel rim and some of the car’s plastic trim has become slightly discoloured, with the once red door card stripes now lacking some of their original saturation. However, as a preserved example of the factory-specification interior, this car presents very well.

While most of the car’s buttons, switches and electrical items work correctly, the seller notes that the keyless locking system is currently inoperative. This has not yet been investigated yet as the car is stored in a highly secure facility.

The most recent maintenance work was carried out prior to its advisory-free MOT on 18 March 2020, when a trusted local garage carried out a minor recommissioning, replacing some of the car’s suspension bushes, as well as fitting new spark plugs, fuel injectors and re-seated seals, while also changing the engine oil and filter, all with genuine Peugeot parts. The seller also stresses that there is no rust in this car, with the floor pans, flitch panels, inner wings, bulkhead, sills, and seat beat anchorage points all solid – something that the MOT tester specified noted to the owner as being an unusual find among 205 GTIs.

The seller has also been told by a previous owner that the cam belt was changed in 2016 at just over 49,000 miles. More recently, the car has undergone an air mixture tuning setup, to ensure the engine is running smoothly, as well as a full four-wheel alignment session. As a previous owner of numerous 205 GTIs, including an Mi16-engined example, the seller notes that this particular 1.9 feels very strong, quicker than other standard cars he has driven, and that it handles smartly.

Its last annual MOT test was conducted on 18 March 2020 at 49,905 miles, where it received a first time pass with no advisories. In fact, the car hasn’t received a single advisory notice since it came out of long-term storage in 2016. All four of its tyres are described as being in good condition, with approximately 5mm of tread remaining on each.

An agile, entertaining and lauded 1980s hot hatch, this Peugeot 205 GTI is an exciting modern classic that is packed with period character. Its eye-catching bodywork modifications are certain to draw inquisitive glances, and it is presented in impressive rust-free condition throughout. Evoking the rally-inspired styling popular in the early ‘90s, this is a genuine 1.9 with period upgrades that is certain to put a smile on its next owner’s face.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Car Overview

  • 49,913 miles
  • manual
  • RHD
  • Sorrento Green Metallic
  • Grey half leather seats
  • 1.9L


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #00776
  • private Sale
  • Taunton, United Kingdom

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