1988 Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi. Huge Expenditure. Very Well Sorted.

Description

1988 Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6. Cherry Red with Black/Red Quartet upholstery. Few cars have achieved the cult status and long-term investment credibility of the Peugeot 205 GTI. More than just a hot hatch, the 205 GTi defined an era. Lightweight, mechanically honest and dynamically alive, it became the benchmark for driver engagement and remains one of the purest performance cars of the analogue age.
This 205 is the archetypal GTi specification. It presents cleanly, sits correctly and delivers exactly what the market now demands: authenticity, structural integrity and serious recent mechanical investment.
Having covered 114,000 miles from new, this car has clearly been cared for properly rather than merely preserved. Crucially, during 2025 it has benefitted from extensive expenditure focused on long-term mechanical excellence. The cylinder head has been skimmed and rebuilt accompanied by a new timing belt and full service items. The rear beam has been replaced, a vital and often overlooked job on these cars ensuring correct geometry and longevity. The suspension has been rebuilt using correct Bilstein dampers, preserving factory character while restoring chassis precision. New brake discs have been fitted all round, along with new engine mounts, a new exhaust system and B M Baker gear linkages for a more defined shift action. The fuel tank has been removed and the underside professionally sealed. The wheels have been refurbished to a high standard. A new windscreen has been sourced through the Peugeot Vintage Centre in France to maintain originality. Detail refinements include new red exterior trim, new bumper brackets and a fresh gear knob. The car retains its original factory radio cassette although a more modern unit is currently fitted and it still retains its supplying dealer rear number plate, original book packs and factory sunroof, all increasingly important markers of authenticity. Final set-up has been completed by a respected vintage Peugeot specialist and master technician.
While the 1.9 often receives the headlines, the 1.6 is widely regarded by driving purists as the sweeter, more balanced car. With a marginally lighter front end and a more eager, rev-hungry engine, it delivers an exceptionally agile driving experience. The unassisted steering is alive with communication. Turn-in is sharp and immediate, the nose darting precisely towards an apex. The engine rewards commitment, building urgency as it climbs through the rev range with crisp throttle response and a distinctive induction note. The chassis balance is what made the 205 legendary. Lift slightly mid-corner and the rear rotates progressively. Apply throttle and it tightens its line. It is playful yet controllable, demanding driver involvement and rewarding skill. In an age dominated by electronics and weight, the 205 GTi feels refreshingly mechanical and intimate. It does not filter the experience. It delivers it.
The market for properly sorted 205 GTis continues to strengthen. Buyers now prioritise structural soundness, mechanical integrity and originality over cosmetic shine. With major recent works completed, correct specification retained and authentic features intact, this example stands apart from average cars. It is not simply nostalgic transport. It is a recognised icon of 1980s performance engineering. Lightweight. Analogue. Increasingly scarce. A genuinely thrilling driver’s car.
Come and see for yourself, any inspection welcome! We take all major cards, consider part exchange, and can even deliver to your door.
For further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Additional high-quality photos and an exclusive video are available on our website and Facebook page.



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About Us:
At Turn Two Classics we are centrally located and can offer easier access for all of our customers old and new. We still operate with old fashioned customer service but we are now able to offer storage and delivery solutions as well as classic sales. Our aim is to help you drive away with the classic that suits your needs both practically and financially. We offer some of the most competitive deals on classic cars and across a variety of brands. We have a great selection of classics in a range of makes and models, from sports cars to family saloons, we are confident that we can find the right classic car for you. At Turn Two Classics we have a reputation for quality customer service. This is because not only do we have extensive knowledge in classic cars, but we have many years experience in selling the right car to the customer. But don't take our word for it, come and see why so many classic owners in the UK keep coming back to us time after time. Even if you are not thinking about buying a classic car, we can offer you friendly advice and expertise in a no pressure environment. For more information on all our cars or services browse through our website. We should have the car of your choice but if for any reason you are looking for a specific make and model that we don't have in stock, please contact us and we will be happy to help you find the right car. We pride ourselves on our wide range of stock but deals this good don't last and our stock of used cars changes frequently. Please contact us to make an appointment to view any of our vehicles.

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* Always a great selection of classic vehicles available
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Ad ID: 1510013019

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