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1991 PEUGEOT 205 GTI 1.6

This Peugeot 205 GTI is a superb example of one of the most celebrated hot hatches ever built, presented in very good cosmetic and mechanical condition. Its engine is the rev-happy 1.6-litre inline-four, producing 113bhp, and coupled to a five-speed manual transmission.

Supplied by Heath Park Peugeot in Romford, this 205 GTI was first registered in January 1991, and returned for its running-in service the following month. There are five previous registered keepers on the log book, and it has been with the current owner for the last few months, who has covered less than 100 miles on the road.

The bodywork is in very good order all around the car, with no damage to any of the panels. Between 2010 and 2012, the owner at the time put the car through a programme of refurbishment, which included rectification of a few dents and a professional machine polish. Nearly 10 years later, the Steel Grey paint finish is still in great shape, with only some minor stone chips to the lower front bumper, and small blemishes in the paint just behind the front wheels.

Receipts in the file documenting the refurbishment show that numerous plastic mouldings were renewed during this time, around the wings and bumpers in particular, so the body trims are generally in very good order. There are only small scuffs or fading present in a few places. New front driving lights and indicator lenses were also sourced and fitted. The car rides on 14-inch SMR ‘pepperpot’ alloy wheels, which were refurbished 10 years ago but still look superb.

Inside, the black and green cloth upholstery appears to be original and is in good order. It has faded slightly over time, and there are a few small scuffs visible, but the seats have held their shape very well. Other than a contemporary Sony stereo head unit, there are no modifications in the cabin, with the original steering wheel and gear knob still in place. There is a manually operated sliding sunroof, and all of the electrical switchgear works as it should.

With the paperwork in the file plus the online history, there are 25 documented MOT tests in total, which provide an outstanding record of the mileage from new. The dates and mileages are included at the bottom of the listing.

A refurbishment ‘diary’ started by the owner 10 years ago documents the comprehensive inspection and gradual improvement of numerous components during the following two-year period. In 2010, the alternator, clutch cable, speedo cable, and temperature gauge sender were all replaced, along with the coolant and thermostat hoses. It received a new exhaust manifold, as well as a fresh set of spark plugs, and a new fuel filter and air filter. One of the front brake flexi hoses was replaced, as were both rear brake pipes from the flexis to the drums. The camshaft timing belt and water pump were replaced at 61,112 miles.

Having spent much of 2011 in storage, in March 2012 the car was treated to a few more new parts. The front strut bearings and anti-roll bar links were replaced, along with the track rod end ball joints, and new driveshaft oil seals. A used but original exhaust back box was sourced as a replacement item. The distributor was stripped and rebuilt at 62,372 miles, and the ignition timing was then set statically and dynamically.

The seller reports that the camshaft timing belt was replaced again in 2018, and that it received an annual service at a local garage in June 2020. The most recent MOT test was on 19 June 2020 at 65,911 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories whatsoever. The wheels are shod in all-season Michelin CrossClimate tyres in size 185/60 R14 all round, which are date-coded to 2017 and have only covered around 500 miles on the road.

Accompanying the car is the original book pouch, housing the owner’s handbook, stamped guarantee and service record, and dealer network directory. Notes from a previous owner documenting the careful refurbishment are also on record, and the car has covered only 5,000 miles in the 10 years since.

This Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 is a smartly presented modern classic, finished in a great factory colour scheme, and with relatively low mileage. A large number of these cars have been subjected to a range of modifications, but this unmolested hot hatch is a refreshingly original proposition. If you have been seeking one of these legendary driver’s cars to add to your collection, then now is your chance.

Summary of MOT history: