The 205 model was the car that revitalised Peugeot's fortunes and the reason people ceased to view the French manufacturer as a conservative designer of large saloons. The introduction of the 205 GTI was to piggyback on the popular emerging market of hot hatches. Volkswagen were leading the way with their two Golf GTIs but were met with stiff competition in 1984 with the release of the simple, light 104Bhp 1.6 engine.
This was later replaced with the better regarded 1.9 litre engine that produced 126Bhp. The go-kart like handling paired with the incredibly light body (870Kg) made it an absolute hoot to drive and was at home on twisty country roads.
The car was spartan like regarding equipment, there was no airbag or power steering present but this just led to a pure driving experience that all enthusiasts appreciated. All while holding an incredibly cool steering wheel.
The rear end of the 205 is iconic in my opinion, it is simple yet beautiful. Bear in mind, this is the view that most people would have of these cars as they roared off into the distance leaving you envious in it's wake.
