FORTY YEARS OF THE PEUGEOT 205

The 15^th of February 1983 marked the launch of a car that, by 1984, would end the Renault 5’s long reign as France’s best-selling car. It was also once Peugeot’s most successful model in the UK and the model that changed its identity in this country. It was, of course, the 205.

It is quite a surprise to recall that four decades ago, the Peugeot brand enjoyed less popularity in the UK than its Talbot subsidiary. The latter was formed in 1979 from Chrysler’s former European operations, with a diverse array of ex-Rootes Group and Simca products. At one point, Talbot’s management hoped RHD 205s would be assembled in their Ryton plant, while some dealers believed it would bear the ‘T’ badge in this country.

As for Peugeot itself, too many British drivers regarded their products as worthy but faintly middle-aged. That this was an unfair perception is now more than apparent. For example, just look at the 403, the 104ZS, the 504TI or the 604, to name but four of their cars. However, when UK sales of the 205 began on the 19th of October 1983, its image seemed more youthful than its predecessor.

What Car declared the 205 their Car of the Year, stating, “Peugeot has helped the small car come of age and, with the Fiat Uno, have thus pioneered a whole new generation of ‘big small cars’. Similarly, The Daily Telegraph regarded the 205 and the Fiat Uno as ‘two of the most outstanding cars of recent years.’ Even the 954cc-engine entry-level model offered chic transport for just £3,895.

Other 205 advantages included the option of five doors and five-speed transmission, neither of which were available on a 1983-vintage Austin Metro. Gerard Welter’s styling proved to be a major sales attraction in its own right, bearing no resemblance to the 104 or any earlier Peugeot.

When Motor Sport tested the flagship GT, they praised the ‘extremely handsome lines’ and the ‘taut feel’ to the stiffened suspension but thought:

‘The best news is that there is more to come. Peugeot intend to emphasise a sporting flavour in their range, and to follow the 505GTi and the 305GTi, there will be a 205GTi with a 107 bhp 1,600 cc engine capable of over 110 mph. Although smaller, this three-door will be facing Golf and Astra, so let’s hope it realises the potential the GT hints at.’

And 1984 marked the debut of the 205 GTi. Peugeot combined the 1,580cc OHC engine from the 305 GT with Bosch fuel injection, resulting in a top speed of 115 mph, with 0-60 in 8.7 seconds. The UK price was £6,295 compared with £6,025 for the MG Metro Turbo and £6,150 for the Renault 5 Gordini Turbo. Motor complained about the ventilation and ride but thought the GTi ‘manages to combine the appeal and charisma of the Mini Cooper S with the sweetness of the first Golf GTi.’

This was praise, and arguably the first GTi crystallised the 205’s image with British motorists. In future blogs, we will write more about other family members, including the T16. For now, here is a reminder of the impact of the first UK-market models nearly 40 years ago – ‘Is the number up for other hatchbacks?’