Why I swapped my 2015 BMW M135i for a 30 year old French hatchback - Peugeot 205 1.9 GTI - vid 1

[@kennethramonet5421]

The whole look of the car, proportionally, is brilliant. By far, the best looking small car EVER...

[@NickMurray]

What a HUGE upgrade from that horrible BMW! I love it.

[@Number27]

Great to hear you approve Nick!

[@SampleTracks2224]

Yup, everyone hates those! :) I'd be wary of crashing in that Peugeot - other people just aren't as predictable as you think they are...

[@itisjustacomment]

They're not that bad. Good around car the M135i. I worked for ING car leasing so I have driven nearly all modern BMWs and owned as company cars for one year each and the 135i /140i /240i we're my favourites by far even against the many models such as the touring, M3/M4/M5 And the many x models which were the best long-distance cars by far, very nice place to be, front and back. But I do have a soft spot for the gti as it was my idol car when I was young. But if I had the choose one to drive daily I would go with the M135i as I had many hot hatches in the '90s onwards and they are very poor to drive in the motorway /long distance and if you crash badly your in real trouble just look at A and B pillars. They just don't stack up to modern cars to be a daily maybe as a weekend toy but not daily.

[@lrodger2486]

The 1.9 speedlines are some of the nicest alloy wheels ever fitted to a hot hatch imho....

[@cav4290]

Same as the Bentley Turbo R.

[@bigjohnfury5662]

Check out the split rim dimma wheels

[@cainezeblaine]

I got a set for my 1.6 GTI, transformed the look. The 1.6 wheels were rubbish looking. Good memories.

[@kronos22002]

@@cav4290 um.. not quite but they did supply all Bently with their rims

[@simes205]

Bottom engine mount worn. Top ones are often ok. Beam look at the trailing arms near the pivot

[@Iwo26]

205 GTi and Renault 5 were always my favorites. They will never get old

[@stuarthogg9175]

No Don't lower. It's perfect.

[@stephenpeacock2627]

stuart hogg I lowered mine 20 old years ago, improves the handling massively. Easily reversed as long as the torsion bars don’t seize. Think it took my specialist 14 tons of force to undo the bolts of torsion bar to lower mine. Gulp, very close to seized.

[@marcmorris-kb9ry]

In 1998 i was doing these and were seized.....last year done a 106 in Spain and just slipped out😊​@@stephenpeacock2627

[@derekclark7545]

I owed both the 16 GTi and the 19 GTi from new, the 16 I had for 3.5 years and the 19 for 3 years, both never had the sun roofs as this makes the car scuttle in the the corners. both cars were very very reliable and all the problems you talk about I never had so can only assume it's the mileage plus the tinkering its had over the years. Do not lower the suspension as that handling will be ruined, it's what makes the car what it was, simply the best handling car in its day as confirmed by every magazine that tested those cars. The 19 will turn on a six pence and keep its line over the rough roads because of its suspension travel. The 19 had a different front and rear end suspension set up to the 16 making it a lot more predictable and less prone to spinning out, the torsion beam and anti roll bars were changed and on the front, the track was narrower and caster or the camber may have been changed, I know it made the 19 far more forgiving as the 16 was a very nervous and twitchy car to drive fast. With the 19 you could get the tail out and slide it around bends, the front just never let go at any speed it was like on rails even over pot holes where as the 16, if the tail went by the time you tried to correct it the car had spun, may have been OK for some that had track day or racing experience but for those of us that had none of that, it was very edgy on the limit. Wish I had kept it in a garage and never sold it, it was the best car to drive with its very high torque motor that you never had to thrash and its light weight body with great handling. Better than a Escort XR3 or RS that both had great mid corner grip out doing the 19 GTi but crap engines and suspension, better than the Renault Turbo with its turbo lag and go-cart handling that was useless on the roads although the thing took off once the turbo got going, and better than the Golf GTi that may have had a better build but was slower and just did not have the handling to keep up, build cannot make up for outright fun. That's where all the 16 valve motors lost out to, you had to thrash them to make them work and while any fool can do that in a straight line, its when you get out on the back roads that the Peugeot 19 GTi came into its own, that motor and the handling was the best.

[@matteo1429]

I had a 1.6 GTI and two 1.9 GTI (both "Action" model). The latters with sunroof too. I'm planning to have my fourth 205 GTI (1.9 of course). I can only confirm what you wrote. Excellent car, blue miami my preferred color, unfortunetly not available in Italy at the time...

[@impossibletruffle]

This is very interesting to me, as I've been a peugeot driver since the start of my driving life. I learned in the 205 1.4 GT (white, red trim stripes and GT badging) which definitely wasn't a GTi, but wasn't slow either. The description of the handling fits that trim fairly well too. the sheer grip in corners, on dirt tracks, in the wet,.. was astonishing. When the rear did go, however, it was brown trouser time. Same as the 206. That thing will do full spins if you overdo things.

[@vittomanek6535]

Build cannot make up for outright fun... I love it :+ )

[@Qwertyuiop-gj1ir]

Any truth that the 1.6 had a better gearbox/gearing than the 1.9?

[@derekclark7545]

@@Qwertyuiop-gj1ir not in my book, the 1.9 had massive low down torque so would pull any gear hard instantly, it's that fact that made it so good on the road, almost could have got away with a three speed box.

[@xai1971]

They never got the design that right again.

[@SDH-g8g]

Mmmm, 106 Rallye S1 or 306 GTi-6 were pretty close.

[@jixuscrixus1967]

Couldn’t agree more, and I can’t think of a Peugeot before or since which just looked right from every angle.

[@BrKnOblivion]

@@SDH-g8g Indeed, the 205, 106 and 306 were the best of the bunch. I do want a 106 GTI-6 or Rallye, but I have had 9 205's and currently a 306 S16 and GTi-6 ;)

[@Mexxx65]

@@SDH-g8g Nah.....not even, closet in my book was its bigger brother the 309GTi 3dr

[@sakariaskarlsson634]

They never got anything that right again tbh

[@stefandominitzki]

I've driven the 1.9 lt. 205 rallye for 10 years and it was the best car of my life (so far). One of the main reason was the low weight. Everything was light. Engine, gearbox and suspension was very good too.

[@simonodell2103]

I had one back in the day , great fun and full of character.Still look special today.

[@itisjustacomment]

Still looks fresh.

[@Grant0610]

Loved the Peugeot 205GTi, actually ANY 205. They were great little cars, full of character. Compared to all the dull SUVs of today they were a joy. I knew someone with a 1.0XE and also someone who had a 1.9GTi. Each end of the spectrum. They were both fun little cars in their own way.

[@Number27]

Yes, all are fun!! Thanks for watching Grant!

[@grayfool]

A small car from the era when small meant small. Modern power steering just completely dulls any feel. The 205 was simple and mechanical so you can feel everything. Great fun.

[@JohnMcMahon.]

You’re a man after my own heart. I really hope you enjoy the little Pug and it’s not too much of a let down compared to modern cars. There’s a lot of nostalgia involved when buying a classic you’ve always wanted to own and as you say, it can be a bit of a culture shock when you first get in and drive it.. You must enjoy it, drive it regularly and imagine your back in the 90’s. There aren’t many left and yours has tons of character. It’ll turn way more heads than the BMW.. 👍

[@Number27]

Yes i love it!!!

[@carlharvey7098]

Your enthusiasm for the car is contagious Jack...Excellent choice mate

[@Number27]

Thanks Carl!!

[@hive71recordinz89]

My dad had the 1.6 GTI at first, that was pretty cool , but when he sold it and came home with the 1.9 and took my Mum and brother and me for a colin mcrae style drive, let's just say I nearly crapped myself. I'm 49 now but can remember the lovely red exterior and lovely interior too, class motor great choice

[@Number27]

😂

[@waynehardwick3100]

I’m just coming to the end of a restoration on my 1.9, ive just ordered the new half leather replacement seat covers from from a french company called young timers, they also do the full leather ones👍🏻

[@rabmccudden683]

Have you got a link to them

[@johndahardy]

@@rabmccudden683 youngtimersclassic.com/gb/15-205

[@munaftufail7489]

Ahhh the memories 🙏 Passed my driving at 17 and my first car was a Peugeot 205 GTi limited edition in Miami Blue. This was '94. It was s**t of a shovel. The handling, the looks.. amazing. Miss my Pug 😔

[@gbfunky]

Check the spare wheel is tightly fitted. Had a 1.6 when I was 18 in the 90s. Loved it!

[@spencerbarratt7421]

Agreed, this can also cause noises as the spare wheel moves in the hanger, the hanger is adjustable at the hinge point if remember correctly. This will provide a tighter drip on the spare.

[@garrydavis3475]

Plenty of air too in that spare

[@Carrera-gp9od]

😂 I forgot about the spare wheel in the cage under the car I remember getting some air in my ax gt , it bottomed out cage opened up the spare wheel ended up in a ditch at the side of the road 😂😂

[@rabmccudden683]

I’ve paused the video to check if someone had beat to this comment lol exactly what I was about to say. Examine the spare is in tight & in good condition

[@rabmccudden683]

Also check ur exhaust brackets for sway. It could rattle too.

[@auntygreg6101]

The bracket that is showing less thread is doing so because it has the exhaust hanger attached to it

[@edh7492]

aunty greg, did you have one? Good shout Greg.

[@fidgetpants4058]

Oil leak probably starts on the rocker cover and makes it's way down... Don't mess with the ride height, got to keep it original, does wonders for the value 👍

[@edh7492]

fidget pants ...but not for the handling.

[@Landshark928]

What an evergreen your 1.9 GTI! The 8v engine is very reliable when giving her time to warm up and regular oil changes.

[@silverelgrandlow6298]

Peugeots get so much hate it's unreal, it's so easy to hate on something just because everyone says the same but never drive it and make a conclusion. You sir, are a true enthusiast.

[@Number27]

Thanks for watching buddy!

[@jasonkenneally2953]

Wheeler Dealers did an episode on the 205 GTi. Edd adjusted the beam on the back to standard ride height. Check that out.

[@williamwitte147]

except that was all wrong..

[@richarddarsa6353]

The drive line shunt is normal - welcome back to the basics of an 80s Pug. I would 100% recommend a k&n induction kit, a front shock tower brace too. DO NOT mess with the ride height - you will ruin it and regret it. Once you have done the induction kit, spend a little money getting a proper 205 specialist to sort out the air meter settings at the base of the intake (takes about an hour) - it makes a huge difference to how well the motor runs, and transformed my 1.6. I also put a momo snap off steering wheel on (ultimate anti theft device) and the boss it comes with gets the much nicer wheel closer to you - but the stalks stay where they are of course. Remember flimsy means light, which makes this fun! Tyre choice will also make a huge difference to how it feels too.

[@Number27]

Thank you Richard and some good advice there!!

[@richarddarsa6353]

@@Number27 You're welcome, I had a sublime H reg pre cat 1.6 (also in Miami blue with the pepper pot wheels). But eventually ruined it by lowering it just a little bit (I live in London). I also did a mildly fruity rear exhaust upgrade (which sounded fantastic), but I know you want to keep it as original as possible and reverse any changes easily to maintain the resale value.

[@Tom-sc4qk]

The boy racers used to flip the badges on the rear - it was a really simple way to upgrade to either a 6.1L or a 9.1L engine

[@martinjohnson4264]

😂😂 Did that, the 1.6 got a bigger upgrade

[@pauldewar626]

I know it’s fun to compare the quirks of old cars vs new but I personally don’t think lifeless electric power steering (common on most modern cars) does much to diminish the M135i/M140i driving experience. The formula remains unique. I’m not sure anyone else would be looking to cross shop the M135i with the 205 GTI either. Enjoy the channel nonetheless. The influenzo is more interesting the the Pug IMHO.

[@Number27]

Agree the M135 is the most interesting of the modern hatches... but for me the steering does have a big impact!

[@gavincollins9376]

Going back many years my girlfriend bought one of these. I had an Escort RS turbo mk1 and thought at the time it was the dog's bollocks until I drove her Peugeot, I never wanted to stop driving it, Loved it...The only car to match it since was the Clio Williams I had

[@oscarzt1652]

good selection of classics youve had then

[@carlosbarragan1673]

There is one hot hatch called the Lancia delta integrale evo2 turbo. Small hatchback And it is a blast hot hatch..

[@gavincollins9376]

@@carlosbarragan1673 But a higher platform on price. Beautiful car and now strong money. I'd say the Escort Cosworth is a good comparison.. Not a hot hatch though

[@andrewharlow84]

Congrats on the Pug! Look forward to seeing more on this car :) It always surprises me just how few good 205 GTi vids there are on KZbin.

[@frederick777]

My dream car from when i was a kid. A freind had 1 with a 1.9 rebored to 2.0. I own a saxo vtr and im amazed on how similar their are. The holes under that you pointed out should have rubber caps. They should be dotted all round the floor pan.

[@James-oo1yq]

Mine had the bright red carpets, which really suited the car. Another upgrade I did was change the front Amber indicators for the later clear ones, and the darker rear clusters, both make a huge difference and make it look more modern, oh and the rear wiper from a 308. Love the 205, although it doesn't like to drive slow without slipping the clutch. They are quite jumpy to drive when pulling away..but you shouldn't hear/feel any driveline shunt at all. The rear noise problem is common, and my axle needed fixed on mine...and it was obvious when you looked at how close the wheel was to the rear of the arch, I believe it's quite common, you'll be able to check on the forums for the exact problem. PS clear indicators go right on with amber bulbs.

[@tobywalton7704]

Good on you for swapping the BM for this little Pug. I've always had massive want for the 205. Unfortunate that prices have gone a bit nuts.

[@martinbond461]

I had a red G reg one of these in 1991 and absolutely loved it. I remember the steering being incredibly heavy on low speed tight corners but the engine was torquey and great fun. The only car I ever had more fun in was in 1994 when I bought a new Clio 1.8 16V.

[@alekartuk]

Takes me back to my youth, the must have hot hatch. Great to see this one

[@Robert_Wolf]

A great decision to the the 205 gti.. as the owner of three fast french hot hatches and a history of german cars too i will always have a piece of fast french tin on the drive.

[@22fret]

To me it's a good decision to trade the 135 for a 205 just because I love old cars. It's a fairly decent hot hatch and much fun to drive. I had a 309 and I liked it very much it even though it was a bit flimsy, too. But they are light and nimble exactly for that reason. The clunky noise from the back might be an insufficiently attached exhaust wobbling about and hitting parts of the chassis while cornering...

[@markbennett6658]

My wife had 205 GTI 1.9 back in ‘94. It was a 1989 model. She agreed £3500 for it but we did a HPI check which revealed it had been an insurance right off. The seller truly didn’t know and we negotiated I think £900 off.. The car ran like a champ for 3 years and we sold it for more than we paid for it despite the bad history. Definitely a very analogue car. It didn’t seem that fast initially even then but seemed to loosen up and get quicker over time. Thanks for the nostalgia!

[@Number27]

Thanks chap..! Yes, not that fast!

[@dwilce]

I'm sure I remember people lowering the rears of these by pulling the torsion bar out and reinserting it at a slightly different angle. Am I dreaming!?

[@edh7492]

You’re not dreaming, same method on most Peugeot and Citroen hatches of the time. Can also fit thicker torsion bars and anti roll bar in the beam to stiffen things up. The beams are known to need attention when these cars reach a certain age.

[@Henders72]

Same for the 5 GT Turbo.

[@nunomc2815]

David Wilce No dream there, exactly how one does it with torsion bars (like with VW Beetles). The problem is that we only change geometry, the spring constant remains the same, same pre-load, and therefore by only lowering by changing the initial “bite” point of the torsion bar we might end on making the suspension touch too much on the bottom.

[@jamesread11]

Did that with the Clio :-)

[@cdsmith1990]

Yep, very common with Saxos / 106s in the 00's, slammed rear via torsion bar and lowering springs up front. Usually resulted in the 'dog squatting for a shit' stance haha

[@Mexxx65]

A short story I hope your subscribers enjoy Jack! Im from Oz. The very first Pegueot GTi I drove back in the 80's was a second hand Silver GTi 1.9 (we only got the 1.9 downunder) with Air Con BUT no power steering, with the 14 inch Pepperpot alloy wheels! Even though it is such a light super mini hatch back, this high mileage, clutch just about giving up, specimen, did not drive that well, very heavy steering, I wasn't overly impressed by it at all! Quite a few years later I saw a beautiful little white 205Si 1991 model (XSi 1.6 and Hunchback of Notre-Dame model known elsewhere in the world) on a Second hand car lot. It had a 1.6, but not the 1.6GTi motor, but it was fuel injected, and had power steering! and steel wheels! But it was mint! low mileage. Tight clutch, great little gearbox, though only a strangled 1.6 motor, it drove like a little peach! For want of a better word Brilliant! I made a promise to myself if I ever saw one again, I would have it! I never did, very very few 205Si 1.6i's made it to Australia.

[@jabba20002000]

An iconic hot hatch indeed! Loved these beauties back in the day, and watching this makes me realise that I still do :-)

[@chrismc1977]

Good to see someone else buying something that stirs the soul. Low mileage DC2 Integra for me. Fabulous N/A engine- 190hp/8500rpm. Well built & shades a 205 for me with the chassis & reliability as well. Seating position perfect & still incredibly capable today. No knocks or rattles either. 145mph & 6.5 to 60. Still the best of its generation to my mind

[@Number27]

Fantastic, enjoy the Integra and thanks for watching Chris!

[@darrenrichards264]

Love it. I'm sure it will be fine mechanically using it regularly. I use my 89 Orion 1.6i Ghia in the summer as a regular daily driver, theres not a lot to go wrong with a 80s designed car!

[@superseven7947]

Had a pre Cat 1.9 in the late 80s was light and quick but R5 GT Turbo is the one I yearn for

[@paulcahill125]

I had a 1.6 Gti and a 1.9 gti The 1.6 better handles the 1.9 faster on the straight Also had the Renault 5GT Turbo and its the best of the three in my opinion only let down by being unreliable The gtis have problems Common Air flow meters stick And vac advance units get contaminated making the car run like it’s done for.. a cheap fix so check first!

[@curlybrownliz]

@@paulcahill125 5 turbos are reliable until people mess about under the bonnet. I had a stock 5GT in the early 2000s and it never missed a beat until my brother bought it and started modding it

[@spencerbarratt7421]

On the knocking noise from the rear when cornering, could be the bolts securing the torsion bars to the beam, I had this on my 106 Rallye. Check for tightness, and apply loctite as they work themselves loose.

[@edh7492]

Spencer Barratt Rallye Steelie pic 👌

[@robertwilson369]

Yep they bolt in the side of the trailing arms

[@stevekovacevic7128]

Awesome. Fully agree. Bmw simply doesnt have the quality and the running expences are ridiculous. I also swapped my 2016 bmw full of problems for the new 5008 & 2008. Never looked back. Peugeot is amazing!

[@theopener2936]

When I used to drive these new around the Peugeot car park (as part of my student job washing the service cars) the driveline shunt was already built in... Love your channel.

[@Number27]

😁😁😁 - thanks for the kind words too’

[@nunomc2815]

The opener Ahahaha one of those could be this, 150 kmiles and 30 yrs ago, so no worries 🤣

[@andrewpreston4127]

In 1984, back on hols from working in SE Asia, I rented an almost new 1.6 version of the 205GTI. Brilliant, loved it. Instant throttle response, eager to go. I had great fun in that car for the 10 day hire period. Nothing wrong with the injection system, no driveline shunt.., none of that. Basically, reviewer has a 30 year old car.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

I can beat this. Up until 2 years ago I had a stunning Bentley. I changed it for a 1996 Peugeot 106 diesel.

[@Number27]

Wow!! Nice swap. I bet the 106 is fu to rag around though!!

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

@@Number27 It's the diesel 106. It doesn't exactly 'rag around'...more like an asthmatic wheeze. But I don't ever worry where I park it, don't get abused in it, never get cut-up in it, it never gets vandalised, and it is comically cheap to run. For example, on the Bentley the head gasket went: £3,500. The Peugeot only cost me £500 to buy...

[@Zeem4]

@@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne I've spoken with someone on a car forum whose Peugeot 106 diesel had over 250,000 miles on it, ran with no problems at all, and regularly returned over 60mpg on a run. I have a bit of a soft spot for them because I learnt to drive in one, in 1995.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

@@Zeem4 wow...this is great news as it means my Pug still has 190k to do to catch up....

[@MultiStrickland]

Had a G reg, red 1.6 bought in 1995 for £4450 when i was 23. Red carpet, no sunroof. It is still the car i miss the most. Went from Kent to the west coast of Ireland in it one summer. It was absolutely brilliant at everything. Had it for 4 years. Have a family now. Zafira Sri. I could cry 😩

[@Number27]

Ha!! Yes the Zafiee doesn’t quite measure up in terms of driving fun!

[@wightwalker2453]

I had one 30 years ago, still my favourite car with great memories of driving fun. Todays hot hatches are probably the same size as a ford cortina estate of the same era, just too bulbous.

[@Number27]

Totally agree!! Thanks for watching

[@colingroves335]

Me and my girlfriend had the 205 1.9 gti in the early 90s, with a cherry bomb exhaust fitted and body kit, it was an awesome little car. The bushes in the rear beam, are a common issue with the 106 and 205 gti, but yours looks solid.

[@OhYeahAboutThat]

Wheeler Dealers had one where they reversed the lowered suspension. I'm sure you can find it on KZbin!

[@kasztan2008]

I love 205 GTI, I bought one with ABS, Air-Con, black leather seats and large sun roof, pretty much best equipment possible, it needed A LOT of work , and it took me ages but I've done most of the work myself and I am really happy with results.

[@Number27]

Enjoy it!!

[@carstenweiland7896]

Harry's garage has done a review ot the 205 1.9 GTI, I have to say he is right with his conclusion!

[@simonproctor7896]

Have had the fortune of driving an '85 1.6 GTI which was upped to around 135ps, apart from that all original. No power steering, no ABS, as flimsy as a paper bag but an absolute hoot to drive! Though the Golf GTI pre-dates the 205, I'd still say that this is far more worthy of being named the original hot hatch. I'd urge anyone to drive one who hasn't already. They're fast appreciating and are now, rightly so, a true modern-day classic.

[@cp4512]

Plenty of leather conditioner on the seats - they’ll come up beautifully

[@Number27]

Not sure, feels like they’ve been reconnolised already i which case the conditioner won’t be absorbed much in any case

[@lutherblissett9070]

PSA used really poor quality leather until the last decade or so, conditioner can't perform miracles. I prefer the velour/alcantara type material they used on the 1.6s.

[@simonlees4393]

I owned one of these in the nineties. Still ranks as one of my all time favourite cars. I used to love the torque steer on traffic light grands prix!

[@Pasthim]

It does look like your trousers had an argument with your shoes at the start 😁

[@Number27]

😂😂😂😂 . Half mast!

[@jixuscrixus1967]

Hahahahahaha

[@stevesmith7997]

Had the 1.6 first and bought a 1.9 in 1991 which I still have ! Still in love after all these years

[@farmerlamb2372]

I bought my 1.6 GTI because my 1.4xs broke down, I fixed the xs and stupidly/sadly sold it, still have my GTI though.

[@tobywalton7704]

I had a 1.4 xs as my first car. What a thing that was. The twin choke carb gave it a bit of a VTEC-like boost. I guess probably even lighter than the Gti's. Sad that they don't really exist any more. Think I've seen maybe one for sale in the last few years. If I could find one for sane money, I'd snap it up.

[@odl21]

Congrats. Just wanted to say I wouldn’t lower it. It you want it to corner better you could change the rear beam for a 309 one. Also some decent expensive tyres. I have a stock ‘91 1.6 the same colour with 30k miles on it. It’s such a great fun car. More fun than my 2018 911 gts and other toys for sure.

[@Number27]

I won’t lower it!! Thanks for watching buddy!

[@PhilbyFavourites]

You are a glutton for punishment. But “tres amusant” as the Franglais would say.....

[@James-po4xt]

Only regret I have was selling my mint pug 10 years ago. Skip brown cup suspension was amazing on my old 205. Also the quaife lsd made it an absolute go kart. Only other thing was a baffle for the sump and you set.

[@Vintaronica]

I miss my little 1.6 205 GTI.

[@giovannigallo8429]

Superb purchase 👍🏻 I loved my Pugs. I owned two 1.9 GTI’s, the way it goes is like nothing else...

[@emrrtwo]

Is the spare wheel not mounted in a sort of cage under the boot in these, incase is loose and noise hearing

[@stankushnir]

I enjoy watching your vids, i also own a 91’ 1.9gti and i’m doing a full restoration, love 205 gti’s, true classic Greetings from Finland

[@Number27]

Hello to Finland 🇫🇮!! Been watching Borderlands on Netflix! Cool country!

[@alangilfether2899]

my mate had the 1.6 back in the day my god that thing could shift

[@davidburke8068]

Had a 1.6 back in the day ! Nothing quicker cross country !

[@oddities-whatnot]

I never had one of these, nearest car was a MK2 Golf GTI 8 valve model in jade green metallic. It was only four years old, one previous solicitor owner. Such a solid car, never ever felt like it would break down. Happy days.

[@timoplants5869]

I had one in my youth; however, my driving skill and the car’s performance eventually led to an unscheduled excursion into a hedgerow.

[@Number27]

Many of these did!!

[@edh7492]

Pants Tilmo yep, lift off oversteer, a cruel mistress until mastered... 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@markwalton8644]

Don't lift off simples😜 I had a lowered 306dt, it was almost evil in the wet. Always had to have the turbo in boost, not in boost, there was no power to correct the oversteer. Kept you on your toes😅

[@nickbrowne3338]

I was lucky enough to have one of these getting on for 30 years ago. I had the 1.9 and my now wife had the 1.6. They felt very different cars to drive. The 1.9 felt a lot softer, but with better damping. The 1.6 felt lighter on its feet and more firmly sprung, but under damped. The 1.9 had loads more low down torque, but ran out of go at the top end. It definately had trouble putting down its power in the wet. I had one or two scares with lift-off oversteer, especially in the wet. I managed to cure this trait by fitting upper and lower strut braces and a slightly stiffer anti-roll bar. I also fitted slightly wider 195/50 tyres Bridgestone RE71 tyres. All these were popular upgrades of the time and recommended by the Peugeot GTI club back then. I remember reading an article in their club magazine describing the difference as night and day. I'm nor sure I would call it that, but it did mean you could actually brake while cornering. Coincidentally my car also suffered from wet carpets. All the door seals were replaced to no avail. It turned out to be the front windscreen. I sold it in the mid nineties as I needed a larger car - I think I got about £2500 for it as there seemed to be 100s for sale then. It was immaculate. Enjoy your 205. Look forward to hearing more about it.

[@Number27]

Thanks Nick, interesting to hear about the anti roll bar and strut brace tweaks!

[@popeye9048]

My mate had one of these back in the day with an mi 16 engine in it.

[@edh7492]

In France you could buy a 309 with the 16v in as standard, the 309 Gti-16. Most people do know it as a 405 Mi16 engine but it came in the Citroen BX Gti too..

[@fidgetpants4058]

I had a 309 with the mi16 in it... Engine aside one of the best handling cars I've ever driven 😁

[@minatormyth]

I have had a few 205 GTIs. Never had any major problems with any of them apart from a small problem that both cars had. The clutch cable tended to snap, when this happens the little push rod falls out and you have to buy or make another, its only an inch or so long. No biggie. Oh yea and I had one have a cam belt snap. But absolutely no damage to the valves or head. It was designed this way, great design. Just replaced the belt and away I went. Great little cars mate, enjoy. EDIT. Could that clacking be from the spare wheel bracket which holds the wheel under the rear of the car. See if its tight under there.

[@Number27]

Thanks fella.. so like the little thing a lot!

[@Graham_Langley]

Never had a the clutch cable fail in over 100k on my 1.6 although IIRC I did replace it. There should be be a spring to stop the pushrod falling out - mine was missing when I bought it.

[@mikees60]

Will it depreciate?

[@AlfaGTA156]

Are you serious or just a troll?

[@edh7492]

Mikee S quite the opposite

[@stdavidboy]

Errrrr NO !

[@mikees60]

I'm being ironic you muppets.

[@geoffclarke8934]

Great car. I had a white H reg 205GTi 1.9 in the late 90s (another late pre cat model) which was huge fun. Had to spent a fair bit of money getting it sorted as had led a hard life but easily the best hot hatch of its era.

[@adrianhurley3909]

Great cars, just don't bend it as they don't hold up very well. Take it from one who was knocked into a comma by one! 😅

[@bloccoaspirale1867]

Did it bring you to a full stop?

[@PhilbyFavourites]

Blocco A Spirale: A perfect riposte sir.

[@michellefiander1859]

Another highly entertaining video about the Influenzo...this is by far the best classic car series on You Tube at the moment and is cheering me up no end thru lockdown....love it, keep 'em coming please!

[@Number27]

Thanks for the kind words Michelle! Great to have a female viewer who likes the series!

[@seanoriley8784]

Dont lower it. Unless you want a ride like an ox wagon.

[@edh7492]

Sean O'Riley do it properly and it will out corner a dog...

[@ryanmccormick2150]

My dad got one of these on test for a couple of days when I was a kid, it was white and I loved it after he handed the car back he went and bought an XR2I i was disappointed he didn't buy the pug! Love your new car Jack, keep the videos coming buddy 👍

[@Number27]

Thanks Ryan.. an XR2 was not the better purchase!! But perhaps more solid!

[@ryanmccormick2150]

@@Number27 yeah I agree, my dad loved his XR2 tho until it was nicked 🙄

[@MrVinylista]

I'm not a Peugeot fan by any means, but borrowed one of these from a friend for a couple of days around 1989 - and couldn't believe what fun they were to drive. Just lovely, especially as it was pre speed cameras and I spent most of my time doing **MPH or more on back roads - strictly when they were empty, of course! Even then though, the crisp packet build didn't impress.

[@Number27]

Totally agree.. a lot of fun but with some drawbacks!

[@trenttrevorrow5648]

I think the crisp bag construction helps it be one of the best handling hatches.

[@Number27]

I think you’re right!

[@malcolmlane-ley2044]

"Simplify, then add lightness" Colin Chapman worked this out way before most and the 206 1.9 GTI followed the mantra well

[@mikerayner5938]

Nice addition Jack. Lovely thin A pillars.

[@boontjes5528]

My dream car as a teenager. Never was able to buy a decent GTI, but had a 1.1 which was also so much fun.

[@Number27]

The strand cars were great too!! Amazing on a bumpy road!

[@stewal6835]

Oh and remember these are ludicrously easy to get in and hot wire. Get a claw type steering wheel lock for starters but its relatively easy to immobilse with a hidden switch in the fuel pump circuit from the fuse box. Consider leaving it unlocked: door skins are easy to punch and get access to the lock mechanism I had 3 done in the 80's/90's. It was also very easy to steal the spare alloy from the cradle. Might want to take it and the cradle out and get an aerosol kit: saves weight too!

[@Gozar111]

I had a 206 GTi and I bought it brand new. Blew a tyre after 60 km on the left rear. Spent quite a while next to the road finding the spare which is outside and under the car. Then had to drive 400 km on a mini spare back home as I flew in to fetch the car on a Friday late afternoon. Well that sucked. Also had a 206 GTi 180 which was an epic looking car! Enjoy your Pug!

[@Number27]

Thanks chap!’

[@grahammitchell4142]

Best hot hatch ever !! Damn right !!... way back in the 1980's-90's "hot hatch era" my company "gutmann Motorsport UK" - Bristol, was the place to go for all Peugeot 205 GTi owners. We were also the 1st company to successfully fit (gaining German TuV Approval) the 405 Mi16 engine into the 205 GTi. This pocket-rocket was to form the basis for a range of "gutmann 205i16V" conversions, (e.g. plus1-165 BHP / plus2-180 BHP / plus3-220 BHP). Peugeot pulled the plug on the 205 model range and the follow up 206 was a mitigated disaster, Peugeot reverted back to making boring cars for boring people, and with it went their clients.

[@Number27]

Cool. Company no longer going?

[@johnswann3780]

I have a 205 racing look gutmann in miami blue with the intra wheels, rear Gutmann spoiler, front valance and lower rear quarter pods, and just fitting a GTI6 lump into it, and would love the Gutmann intake, but sadly unavailable. A very rare 205 is the Gutmann now:-(

[@mealston1725]

BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar are nothing more than names now. The quality is simply gone. Like your decisions on your 205, I inherited my mom's 1995 VW Cabrio (4-speed auto-2 liter) where she kept it serviced on schedule with the dealership and it was always kept in her garage. She probably put 50 miles a week on it. She lives in the vineyards area of California and wasn't able to deal with the psuedo power steering anymore. So I had it trucked to my home state. Upon delivery, I saw that the car had 57,800 miles on the odometer. In need of replacing tires, struts and strut mounts, she is whistle clean, never wrecked or abused. Replaced all belts, fluids, plugs & filters. A new roof was installed at the dealership, along with a new AC compressor and dryer as well. From a maintenance standpoint, its exactly as you discerned with your 205. Its far smarter to own, operate and maintain over any of today's luxury. Thank you for your channel. AlltheBest- Eddy

[@stevenbrown3151]

Things to check for the clanking noise at the rear: could be spare wheel moving. I couldn't see if it's held in the original cage or not but if slightly loose it can clank/thud on direction changes. Oil underneath could be an over-filled gearbox especially if recently had work done.

[@Mexxx65]

Check the spare wheel cage under the car i agree....Jack!

[@stuartchino9565]

Hi, it is a torsion bar on the rear for lowering, personally I would leave the rear and maybe just lower the front a little, change the front indicators to clear units and swap the rear lights to the later phase 2 type, you have the best colour for sure. I am onmy 6th 205 now and just about to pull and rebuild my engine. I am sure you will have lots of fun so enjoy👍👍

[@Number27]

Thank you Stuart!!

[@davidwilliams2377]

Where the scuttle panel covers will be the reason for the water in the footwell. There is a water drain that runs down behind the arch that can get blocked and cause water to slosh around and up end up in the foot well. Just keep an eye out that it's clear along with making sure that the drainage hole by the sill are also clear.

[@davidwilliams2377]

The clacking could be the spare wheel moving around in the cage? The movement in the drivetrain could be engine mounts, if you're going to replace then, BM Baker do a kits which is slightly harder than standard for around £90. The mounts are super easy to replace, taking around an hour to change at home with a jack. If you do that, I would be careful with the gearbox mount, which is located under the batter tray, as the two threaded bolts can shear if you apply too much torque. As for lowering the front Eibach springs seem to be the norm, at around £120, this is typically done with a Blistein damper but can be run on a standard damper. The rear is lowered with the torsion bar, plenty of guides on the 205gti forums. Quick note, I wouldn't jack it up or leave it on the sills, use the subframe, as it's less likely to slip off along with not ruining the sills.

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

The 205 GTI handles so beautifully because Peugeot's R&D engineers knew what they were doing. I can't believe you're thinking about lowering the ride height.

[@Number27]

Changed my mind due to the feedback!

[@spainter1985]

What a superb car, looks fantastic and fresh even today. I think I've missed the boat on these given their current values but best of all the hot hatches of the era in my opinion.

[@paulj3625]

love those three round dashboard buttons so 80's/90's ! great great car

[@danwedderburn5550]

Knocking on the rear was usually down to the rear beam mounts failing. They are are metalastic type of mounting that simply split in two. Very easy job to replace.

[@gotthefeelin]

Not sure what you was thinking, but the French use a product called Polytrol to restore the exterior plastics on the 205. Unlike coatings that wash off after a while Polytrol absorbs into the plastic to bring back the colour that faded over time due to UV light and heat. It comes up like new. I learnt to drive in a 205. It was a fantastic little car.

[@Number27]

Spot on!! polytrol is exactly what I have!! 👍🤜

[@rovingenglishman]

I had a Mk1 GTI but always admired these for the same reasons

[@jimwilson7193]

This is the car I always promised myself but never bought . Love them . 1.6 or 1.9 makes no differences to me

[@danielwatson2068]

Ah, the car of my early 20s....had one for 6 years in the 90s. Loved it and not too many problems other than a seized sunroof and passenger window which was prone to slipping out its track. Fuel injection gremlins towards the end though mainly due to iffy electrical connectors. Look forward to seeing how you get on with this one, brings back some great memories!

[@df9834]

What a car! I was fortunate enough for my friend to buy one 2 years old! It was rapid at the time and had full leather interior 👍👍

[@TheEdge92]

I LOVE the driving position. Such a comfy sprawler!

[@eikewiddau8986]

I got to say the standard 205s are already pretty fun to drive. But I am saving up and collecting parts to convert my 1.4 to 1.9 gti spec, and I am pretty sure it'll be even better with the correct suspension.

[@impossibletruffle]

I've always toyed with the idea of getting an old 205 1.4 and bike carbing it. I bet you'd get GTi levels of power

[@mrc7966]

I used to daily an M6, then an AMG, previously a 997...a few years ago I drove a Clio 182 and realised that FWD light cars were much more my cup of tea. I now own a 182 Trophy and a Williams. Never looked back. 205 GTi is on my shopping list.

[@Number27]

Wow, both fab cars!! Thanks for watching!