Peugeot 205 XS and R53 Mini Cooper S comparison drive - How big is the generation gap? | OVERTAKE

With 16 years between the Peugeot 205 XS and the R53 generation Mini Cooper S, just how big is the generation gap between the two hot (or warm) hatches?
Starting with the Peugeot 205 XS, it's a generation or more older than the Mini and unlike the 205 Gti, it didn't even have the option of power steering. The R53 Mini Cooper S on the other hand is from the early 2000's and as such comes with much of the driver aids and comfort spec we expect from cars today, power steering, abs brakes, air con etc etc.
At OVERTAKE we thought it would be fun to take advantage of having two little hatchbacks and give them a drive to see how they compare, to experience the age gap between the cars and how they feel on the road. Also, it provided a good excuse to dust the cars off and go for a drive down some nice country lanes!
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#peugeot205 #mini #cars #overtake #minicoopers

[@VintageOutboardMan]

Always puts a smile on my face when I see a new 205 XS upload :)

[@OvertakeFilms]

Thanks! I'm grateful to see I'm not the only person that appreciates small simple cars

[@hakankursunmusic]

Thank you. I drove exactly the same 205XS for many years. It was a wonderful time. Unfortunately I sold it. Great memories!!!

[@tayeriley976]

I think the XS drivetrain is the sweet spot in the 205 range. The chassis has a lovely balance of ride & handling and it’s quick enough to put a smile on your face without getting you into trouble.

[@pablos3563]

Both nice cars but I prefer 205. Thanks for vid

[@peugeoting]

i own a diesel 205 and an r50 mini, so these are a bit above my spec! but it’s the same idea, glad to own them - even with less power it’s really about how you drive with these cars

[@Andre-BMW]

What a nice video! As a 205 1.6 XS owner ( a 1993 model with 89hp) I recognize so much;) When I was young my parents had a 1988 205 1.4 XS with the same interior as yours. I really love these cars;)

[@OvertakeFilms]

Thanks! I didn't realise Peugeot made a 1.6 XS, there are so many different models within the 205 range, especially in different territories. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@n.r.c.w]

Wonderful review! Having driven multiple 205s and owning an R53 myself, I get your points. The R53, to me, is the closest thing to the old school hot hatches, while maintaining everyday usability. I've always loved the XS. Would like to own one too!

[@OvertakeFilms]

Thanks! The R53 is a very usable modern classic in the making, enjoy yours!

[@davidwright1605]

A bit late to the party but thanks for posting this - very interesting. I owned at 1991 205 XS from new and a 2002 Mini Cooper (not the S) from new but owned a 1.6 Polo for 6 years in between . So it was harder for me to make comparisons in terms of driving feel. The 205 had more space in the back and boot though to be fair it is 8 cm longer., and the new Mini was never really about space efficiency. The Mini was always a premium product while the 205 was mainstream, but everything being an extra on the Mini was annoying. Even the spare wheel was an extra as indeed were sports seats on the Cooper.

[@druggie54]

A Sprint Booster cures the R53 of the slow and lazy throttle response. Turns the car into what it should be, a snappy little street demon. The smaller supercharger pulley is also a must have for a bit of extra boost.

[@koolkat969]

I agree, there's definitely a great difference between 80's classic hatches and early 2000's modern classic hatches. Thought the differences won't be so far apart but recently got to drive a friend's 205gti having driven to his in my Clio 182. The differences are as you describe in terms of the experience and where they shine better, just worlds apart. And indeed, the early 2000's hatches are not so far apart from the current hot hatches in terms of the driving experience and usability, having driven a few very modern hot hatches also.

[@OvertakeFilms]

Good to hear! The Clio 182 has got to be a good balance of usability whilst still offering a decent connection to the driver, a car I must try at some stage, before they get too expensive!

[@koolkat969]

@@OvertakeFilms Yes, it is a good balance indeed. Good one's can still be picked up for a reasonable price in the market but with a bit of patience, as there are equally a few rough ones out there asking for silly money.

[@cybereye2]

From a purely performance perspective I feel you should have compared a 205GTi 1.9 to the Cooper S. However I understand owning an XS is the reason for your comparison. You are very lucky to own an XS! Which Car is the most fun to drive? my guess is the XS!

[@francispowell1811]

I think a GTi would have been more relevant in assessing 16 years of advancement, basically the pinnacle of each era. Or, the comparison of a non-Cooper Mini with the XS.

[@gerryr1893]

I have a g reg 1990 Rolland garos which I’m going to sell never use it

[@thiscocks]

Every new Mini I have driven, even the base models, have a really poor, overly stiff ride. My Citroen AX glides by comparison

[@japandrej]

Stiff ride is a must for good handling/cornering and go-kart experience, it's one of the main reasons I drive the Mini. French cars in general have a tradition of having extremely soft suspension, unless a sportsmodel.

[@thiscocks]

@@japandrej The older French hatches show that with light weight you dont need super stiff suspension for good handling. It was more about balance and dealing with bumps well. That's part of why they are generally much better suited to the roads in the UK and hence pretty fun.