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PEUGEOT 205

Prior to the launch of the 205 in 1983, Peugeot was seen as the producer of worthy but somewhat dull machines. It had been one of the first European manufacturers to enter the supermini market of the ’70s via the 104, but by early the following decade it was lagging behind newer rivals. What Peugeot really needed was a stylish supermini with real driver appeal.

The end result was the 205 – one of the most important launches of 1983, not just for its influence on Europe’s supermini market but also for transforming its maker’s image throughout the continent. So good was this newcomer in terms of its performance, handling, practicality, economy and fun factor, it was soon being hailed as a class leader, and would remain so for many years to come.

Only a five-door version of the 205 was available initially, employing 954cc, 1124cc and 1360cc four-cylinder engines. This was followed by the three-door models, as well as a 1769cc diesel, recognised as one of the finest oil-burners around. And then, of course, we had the launch of the outrageously entertaining 205 GTI in 1984 – complete with 1580cc fuel-injected engine, joined later by a 1905cc version offering a whopping 130bhp.

Peugeot may have been one of the last major European manufacturers to join the hot hatch scene, but the excitement provided by the new 205 GTI more than made up for that. Compared with other hot hatches of the ’80s, the 205 was far and away the most fun to be behind the wheel of. And, happily, it also boasted some of the best cornering characteristics of the decade.

The 205 was also transformed into a convertible thanks to the efforts of Pininfarina, which both designed and built it (in Italy) on behalf of Peugeot. One of the