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1989 PEUGEOT 205 GTI 1.9

This Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 is a wonderfully original example of an iconic hot hatch, presented in very good condition and with comprehensive history. Under the bonnet is the 126bhp 1.9-litre inline-four, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 75,745 miles from new.

An early ‘Phase 1’ 1.9 GTI, this car was first registered in August 1989, and there are just three previous registered keepers on the log book. It has formed part of a private collection of modern classics for the last three years, and the owner has enjoyed around 1,600 miles behind the wheel.

The bodywork of this 205 GTI is in great shape, with impressive shut lines and panel gaps throughout. The seller believes that the paint is all original, and as such there are a few imperfections noted. A small patch of bubbling is present ahead of the offside rear wheel arch, but it has not broken through the paint. There is also a small ding on the nearside roof area, and minor dents and scuffs on the front lip spoiler, and just above the boot lock. In general, the silver finish presents very smartly, and could be easily improved by the next owner if they wished to bring the car up to show standards. As an early 1.9, it features the desirable 15-inch Speedline alloy wheels, which are in superb condition.

Inside, the cabin features the half-leather seats, with black and grey cloth centre panels. There is some wear and surface cracking on the driver’s seat side and thigh bolsters, commensurate with the age and mileage, but the upholstery is generally in excellent condition. The cabin trim is original and unmodified, including the door cards, steering wheel, and gear knob. Even the Philips radio cassette deck is believed to have been fitted when the car was new. This car also features the optional sliding glass sunroof, which works perfectly.

This car has a remarkably well-documented history, with the seller stating that there are stamps and/or invoices on file that show the car was serviced every year from new until 2017, before being put under a valid SORN certificate for 2018 and 2019, and then being freshly serviced again this year. The last scheduled maintenance was carried out in May 2020 at Wellbrook Motor Services in Mayfield, which consisted of a standard annual service and oil change.

Prior to this it was given an interim service by Robins and Day Peugeot in March 2017, and a full service by the same main dealer in April 2016. The camshaft timing belt was replaced in March 2015 by Turners of Croydon. During this service, new front brake hoses were also fitted, along with a new fuel line, spark plugs, four tyres, and rear brake discs and pads.

The most recent MOT was on 11 May 2020 at 75,628 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories. The wheels are fitted with Goodyear EfficientGrip tyres in size 185/55 R15 all round. They are date-coded to late 2014, and still have approximately 7mm of tread remaining.

Other than the two years that the car spent under valid SORN certificates in 2018 and 2019, the car has been put through an annual MOT every year since 1992, and has evidently been kept in excellent mechanical condition. Far from being a laid-up museum piece or concours entrant, this is a smart GTI that can actually be driven and enjoyed.

Three folders full of service and MOT history accompany this 205 GTI, as well as the original book pack and sales brochures from the supplying dealer when new. The stamped guarantee and maintenance record is present, as well as the owner’s manual, dealer directory, and user guides for the stereo and alarm.

This Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 is a remarkably well-preserved example of one of the most renowned hot hatches. It is increasingly hard to find 205 GTIs in very good condition, let alone ones that remain original and unmodified like this car. With a continuous and extensive history file, this example is undoubtedly one of the most ‘complete’ 205 GTIs, and would make a fine addition to any collection of legendary modern classics.

Summary of MOT history: