Auction Car of the Week: 1989 Peugeot 205 GTI Dimma

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, the Peugeot 205 has cemented its place in hatchback history. Prices for the GTI version are considerably higher today than when it was new, even adjusted for inflation, and the rally-homogation T16 can sell for six figures.

Long before Tolman Engineering created its restomod 205 GTI – which Tim Pitt drove back in 2021 – French company Dimma was busy modifying Peugeot hot hatches for its customers.

This Dimma 205 GTI pictured here could be considered something of a cut-price T16, thanks to its Group B rally-inspired styling and Turbo Technics engine conversion. The work was carried out in 1989, confirmed by separate plates and serial numbers in the engine bay – making this one of 300 cars produced to a similar spec.

Chairman of the broad

The PT2 turbo system lifts power output to 173hp – plenty in a car as famously light and nimble as the 205. With only 54,985 miles recorded, the 1.9-litre engine looks well presented and has clearly been treated kindly throughout its lifetime.

The rest of the Peugeot is in good condition, too. With the exception of light creases and marks, the highly original interior is in fantastic shape, the only obvious modifications being the aftermarket Lockwood dials and turbo boost gauge.

The Ivory White Dimma bodykit includes T16-inspired bumpers, widened arches, a large roof spoiler and Morette twin headlights. They come together to create an aggressive visual package that unashamedly evokes one of the most famous rally cars of the 1980s.

Bring on the boost

Less evocative, but no less important, is the car’s extensive history and paperwork. It has an MOT with no advisories until April 2024, plus the original Peugeot owners’ manual and GTI leather case, a Dimma handbook and plenty of historic MOT and servicing information. It should be enough to reassure any potential bidder.

Fast, head-turning, rare and hugely evocative of its era, Car & Classic’s auction for the 1989 Peugeot 205 GTI Dimma, in association with Retro Motor, is now now live and runs until 9 October 2023. The final sale price is expected to exceed £35,000.

Not convinced? Car & Classic is also offering a standard Peugeot 205 GTI from the same year. The auction ends on 11 October 2023, with a predicted sale price of around £6,000.

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