UK’s most famous Peugeot 205 GTI heads to auction

Perhaps the best-known Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 in the UK will be offered for auction next month. 

Listed in the H&H Classics Live Auction Online, this particular hot hatchback has been a media darling for two decades. 

Indeed, it’s had so many celebrity appearances, this Peugeot is probably deserving of an IMDb entry.

The argument that never ends

Mrs Higgins of Ellesmere Port was the first owner of the 205 GTI, with the car registered on 1 August 1992. 

Although this example comes from the latter end of 205 GTI production, the 1.9-litre engine avoided being saddled with a catalytic converter. That means an unrestricted output of 126hp from the four-cylinder XU9JA motor. 

Peugeot purists will forever argue as to whether the 1.6- or 1.9-litre version of the 205 GTI is best. Although the smaller engine revs more eagerly, the larger displacement motor counters with extra torque. 

Half-leather seats, rear disc brakes and 15-inch alloy wheels were also part of the 1.9 GTI package.

Star of screen and print

Both versions are brilliant, with the 205 GTI consistently ranked as the greatest hot hatch ever made. Indeed, every new hot hatch launched seems to be judged against the classic Peugeot.

The car up for auction has appeared in the pages of multiple motoring magazines, including EVO, Auto Express and Performance French Cars. 

The 205 GTi was also driven by ‘Jezza’ on Clarkson’s Car Years in 2000, and later by the Stig on Top Gear in 2003. On the latter occasion, it took part in a drag race against a 206 GTI.

Honey, I shrunk the Peugeot!

Not only has this 205 GTi 1.9 appeared on TV and in print, it was also immortalised by Corgi as a diecast miniature. Rendered in 1:43 scale, even the registration number of K923 JFM was added to the model. 

Such fame has helped ensure the GTI has been maintained throughout its life. An accompanying history folder includes MOT certificates back to 1995, along with bills and invoices from 1996 onwards. 

Its total mileage currently stands at just under 93,000, with the last service in February this year. A bill for £1,170 included new drop links, front Bilstein shock absorbers and a new gear linkage set. 

No plastic surgery here

The service records show that the clutch was replaced at 62,000 miles, with a top-engine rebuild at 79,000 miles. A rolling road tune and replacement cambelt were part of the work performed more recently. 

It makes for a car that has been paid plenty of mechanical attention, and should let a new owner enjoy driving it further. 

H&H Classics notes that the Miami Blue paintwork shows signs of stone chips, while the black and red interior has wear to the fabric. The distinctive 15-inch alloy wheels have been refurbished, though.

A new casting call awaits

Auction values for clean examples of the 205 GTI have been climbing, with a record-breaking example topping £38,000 in 2017.

It makes the pre-sale estimate for this famed example of £19,000 to £22,000 seem quite reasonable.  

The H&H Classics Live Auction Online takes place on Thursday, 18th November, with bidder registration now open.