Description
FOR SALE
JF Classic Cars present a little pocket rocket Peugeot 205GTi Phase 1. 5 in Alpine White whilst maintaining it's originality throughout
DESCRIPTION
The Peugeot 205 was introduced in 1983 with the sporting GTI arriving in 1984 and quickly establishing itself as one of the defining hot hatches of the decade. By 1990, the 205 GTI had evolved into a highly developed yet refreshingly uncomplicated performance car, retaining the lightweight construction and compact dimensions that made the model so enjoyable to drive
The 205 was built around a lightweight steel monocoque bodyshell, combining a strong and rigid structure with compact dimensions, short overhangs and front-wheel drive. The GTI’s relatively low weight, responsive chassis and precise steering gave it the nimble, agile character that became one of its defining qualities, making it such an engaging car to drive and a firm favourite among enthusiasts
EXTERNAL
The exterior of this 1990 Peugeot 205 GTI is finished in the highly desirable factory Peugeot Alpine White a colour that suits the compact proportions and purposeful styling of the GTI exceptionally well. The bodywork presents very strongly with all panels maintaining their correct shape and alignment and the paintwork displaying a consistent finish throughout. The familiar sharp creases and clean lines of the 205GTi remain well defined giving the car the crisp appearance that has become such an important part of its identity.
The legendary black Phase 1. 5 GTI bumpers are retained front and rear both complemented by the distinctive red pinstripe detailing that runs neatly around the bumper sections also sitting tight and stright down each flank
The bumpers sit straight to the body and together with the black side mouldings and associated exterior trim provide the characteristic contrast against the Alpine White paintwork. The front end is completed by the original fog lamps neatly integrated into the lower bumper area and adding to the purposeful appearance of the GTI.
The original front lighting remains in place including the main headlamp units and accompanying indicators all retaining the correct period appearance. At the rear the original tail-light clusters are also present, completing the unmistakable 205 GTI rear profile. The glazing throughout the car is clear and well presented, with the windows sitting correctly within their surrounds and contributing to the clean overall appearance. The windscreen and side glass retain the simple, functional character typical of the 205, while the rear glass provides excellent visibility and complements the practical hatchback design.
The exterior detailing is particularly important on a 205 GTI, and this example retains the understated combination of black trim, red detailing and Alpine White paintwork that gives the car its instantly recognisable appearance. From the sculpted front end through to the compact rear hatch, the overall presentation remains exceptionally well balanced and faithful to the original GTI design, making it an appealing example for both the enthusiast and serious collector
INTERNAL
Open the door and the interior immediately delivers the unmistakable character of a period 205 GTI. The original dashboard is finished in the correct light grey with a simple driver-focused layout that keeps the important information directly in view. The instrument binnacle sits directly ahead of the driver beneath its pronounced hood housing the large speedometer and rev counter, with the smaller gauges positioned alongside for fuel level, engine temperature and oil information. The surrounding switchgear is straightforward and tactile, with the various ventilation controls and electrical switches arranged neatly through the centre of the dashboard.
The original sports seats are trimmed in the highly distinctive Peugeot Quartet Fabric with both the front and rear seating presenting in very good condition. The front seats provide the supportive close-fitting shape expected of the GTI while the bolsters remain firm and well defined retaining the support you want when driving the car with enthusiasm. The rear bench complements the front seats and remains equally well presented giving the cabin a genuine period appearance rather than the overly refurbished look sometimes seen on these cars.
Underfoot is the signature bright red interior carpet an important part of the 205 GTI's visual character. The door cards are finished in light grey incorporating the distinctive red pinstripe detail while the lower sections are trimmed with matching red carpet. Together, these details create the familiar contrast between the grey cabin trim and vivid red flooring that is so characteristic of the GTI.
Completing the cabin is the original factory Clarion push-button radio/ cassette system another valuable period detail and one that sits naturally within the original dashboard layout. The overall impression is of a genuine, well-preserved GTI interior retaining the materials colours and equipment that made the 205 such an appealing driver's car when new. For a collector it is these authentic details from the Quartet upholstery and red carpeting to the original dashboard and Clarion audio system that give the interior its real character
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
At the heart of this 1990 Peugeot 205 GTI is the renowned 1. 6-litre XU5JA four-cylinder eight-valve petrol engine using Bosch fuel injection and producing approximately 115 bhp at 6, 250 rpm, with around 134 Nm of torque at 4, 000 rpm
The engine bay itself presents cleanly and retains a notably original appearance, with the correct mechanical layout and period components giving it the honest look expected of a well-maintained example rather than one that has been excessively modified or dressed for display.
On the road, the engine feels particularly well suited to the lightweight 205 pulling keenly through the rev range and responding promptly to throttle inputs. The car drives well, with the engine delivering its power progressively as each gear is selected allowing you to appreciate the combination of relatively modest weight and lively performance that defines the 1. 6 GTI.
Power is delivered through the five-speed manual gearbox giving the driver a well-spaced selection of ratios and allowing the engine to be kept within its useful power band. The combination of the free-revving 1. 6-litre engine, five-speed transmission and front-wheel drive makes this a particularly engaging car to drive, retaining the direct and uncomplicated character that has made the 205 GTI such a desirable modern classic.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
This 205 GTI sits on its four-stud silver 12-hole alloy wheels which are all in good condition and suit the car’s compact, purposeful styling particularly well. Each corner has a Michelin 185/ 50 R14 providing the correct period-style footprint while offering a good balance between grip, steering response and road comfort. The wheels and tyres complement the lightweight character of the 205 without compromising its original sporting appearance.
Braking is provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, giving the 1. 6 GTI a capable braking system well suited to its relatively light kerb weight and lively performance. The brakes offer progressive pedal feel and controlled stopping, allowing the driver to make full use of the car’s responsive chassis while retaining confidence behind the wheel
HISTORY FILE
First registered on the 1st April 1990, JF Classic Cars would not normally sell a vehicle which has covered 99000 miles from new however this example has been treated well throughout its life and nurtured rather than raced or rallied, Having low ownership and remaining original that in itself tells a story
With original dealer manual containing owners handbook, maintenance manual and audio manual along with previous mot certificates and receipts for previous servicing which include timing belt and waterpump along with routine serviceable consumables
Seldom do you see an original Peugeot 205GTI in original form let along in this condition, Simply jump in and away you go it's on the button
If you want a true nostalgia hot hatch from the early nineties look no further this stunning original example ticks all the boxes.
HPi Clear & V5 Present.
