Peugeot 205 Classic Cars for Sale

Introduction & History

Development of the Peugeot 205 started in 1978 under the project name M24. It was designed as the successor to the Peugeot 104, inheriting several technical aspects. Production began at the Peugeot factory in Mulhouse in late 1982. The 205 debuted in the fall of 1983 featuring a diesel engine, with the sporty GTI petrol injection version arriving in 1984. A total of 5,270,000 units were sold, with 410,510 units in Germany. For years, it was the best-selling Peugeot in Germany and the top import model in 1985 and 1986. Its rally version, the 205 Turbo 16, boosted the civil variant's popularity through its racing success. The 205 underwent a minor facelift in mid-1988, focusing on interior upgrades.

Highlights of the Peugeot 205

The Peugeot 205 is lauded for its broad range of engines and model variations. The 205 GTI, in particular, has a dedicated fan base that continues to grow. Known for its sporty nature and excellent suspension tuning, it also excelled in its rally model, the 205 Turbo 16, highlighting the chassis' capabilities. The convertible version, designed by Pininfarina, is also a favorite. According to our statistics, the 205 leads with a 22.8% share of available listings, far exceeding other Peugeot models. Its popularity is further underscored by 17.6% of sight inquiries in the market.

Technical Specifications

Buying Guide / Weaknesses and Reliability

When considering a Peugeot 205, be aware of some potential weaknesses. Petrol engines may face issues with alternators, water pumps, and worn camshafts. Diesel models experience similar problems, including discolored air filters in turbo variants. The suspension system, particularly the rear axle, can exhibit significant wear, leading to costly repairs. Electrical and heating leaks are not uncommon and require thorough inspection before purchase.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Peugeot 205 delivers a sporty and dynamic driving experience, largely due to its light weight. The GTI models, known for their agile traits, boasted petrol engines offering up to 200 hp in the Turbo 16 version. Several transmission options were available, including an automatic gearbox developed in collaboration with ZF.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Peugeot 205's design evolved carefully over time. From early "Lacoste" editions to "Gentry" models and popular "Roland Garros" editions with special leather touches and design elements, the 205's comfort level increased with optional accessories and special features like sunroofs and leather interiors. Unique color choices and design elements, like those in the "Green" version, offered further customization.

Summary

The Peugeot 205 remains a desirable classic car to this day. Its blend of sporty driving fun, iconic design, and versatility makes it a favorite among car enthusiasts. Despite some weaknesses that need attention, its various versions, especially the GTI and convertible, make the Peugeot 205 a compelling investment for collectors and classic car lovers.