Here we have a car that's so rare, it's easy to forget that it ever existed. The Peugeot 309 was originally destined to be a Talbot. However, declining interest in the brand following the disastrous Tagora, prompted it to be badged Peugeot, becoming a sibling of to the 205. In essence, the two cars are the same, but the 309 boasts a boot, much like the relationship between the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta.

Here we have a much-admired GTi variant, with the rarer 16v engine. It didn't sell especially well in period, during the hatchback craze, but now enthusiasts favour its longer wheelbase, which offers arguably better handling. Our example looks to be in very good shape for its age, evidently having undergone a respray. Elsewhere, it appears to remain exceedingly original and well-preserved.

BEFORE YOU BUY 

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions. 

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 

✓ We also  check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and  it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer. 

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.