1989 PEUGEOT 205 GTI 1.6

This Peugeot 205 GTI presents as a highly original and unmodified example of the iconic hot hatch, and benefits from a cambelt replacement just one year ago. Under the bonnet is the rev-happy 1.6-litre inline-four, producing around 113bhp, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 65,724 miles, which is almost certainly the correct total figure.

First registered on 29 September 1989, this 205 GTI has just three previous keepers on the V5C. The first owner kept the car from 1989 through to October 1992; the second from this point until December 2008; and the third sold the car on in 2020 to a specialist dealer, whereafter it was acquired by Collecting Cars. Within the last six months, it has appeared at several socially-distanced car gatherings.

Today, the bodywork presents remarkably well for its age, with smooth shut lines and even panel gaps around the car. The grey paint finish has a glossy appearance across the panels, and it is not known if the car has received a respray in the past. There are only minor marks present in the paint, with the odd stone chip and some small touched-in marks. At the rear, the tailgate has very likely been repainted at some point, as it presents in a very slightly darker shade to the rest of the body.

There is a minor scuff on the nearside front plastic wheel arch trim, but all of the other body trims and the rubber window seals are in very good order. This 205 GTI rides on the correct 14-inch SMR 'pepper pot' alloy wheels, which are in generally excellent condition.

In the cabin, the seat upholstery is almost certainly original, with only very slight fading of the cloth and slight bunching in the driver’s outer seat bolster, but no rips or other damage to the fabric. The car still looks period-perfect, with no interior modifications, and even retains the Peugeot-branded Clarion radio cassette deck. Its steering wheel and gear knob appear to be the original items, as per the rest of the switchgear. The sliding sunroof opens and closes as it should.

Its last routine maintenance was carried out in February 2020 at approximately 65,100 miles, when mobile technician Smifysworld carried out a cam timing belt and tensioner renewal, replaced the water pump, and added new anti-freeze. There is a hand-written record of previous MOTs and services in the history file, which also shows the mileage accrual over time.

The most recent MOT test was on 8 February 2020 at 65,041 miles, which it passed with only one advisory regarding slight deterioration of the rear brake hoses. It had previously failed on an inoperative windscreen washer, which was rectified. The MOT also indicates that the car has covered less than 10,000 miles in the last 15 years - further supporting the indicated mileage.

Its wheels are fitted with a matching set of GT Radial tyres, which are date-coded to late 2015 and which remain in very good condition with ample tread. An original owner’s handbook is present, as is a folder of MOT and servicing paperwork, and a handful of old tax discs.

This Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 is a well-preserved example of one of the most celebrated hot hatches of all time. With its rev-happy engine and low kerb weight, the GTI is a wonderful driver’s car, and one which deserves to find a new home with someone who will take the opportunity to enjoy it as often as possible on the road. Original and unmodified examples are increasingly sought-after, and this particular car also presents very well throughout, which makes it a compelling modern classic.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered 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.