Peugeot 205 Hatchback 1983
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    I was fortunate in I was able to find this particular example in original unmodified condition with ONE owner from NEW and a FPSH - with only 60K genuine miles! This is a GTi in all but name, thus excellent value for money.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    It needs servicing every 6k miles and you'd be surprised how quickly you do this kind of mileage. I take mine to my local Peugeot Dealer who charges me £70 for an interim service. An expense, but these cars NEED TO BE SERVICED CORRECTLY to be 100% OK.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    PUGs are always fun to drive and this is no exception. I always get out of the car reluctantly since it is so much fun to drive. The suspension is taught and suitably stiff and I haven't noticed much body roll when pushing it through corners etc.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Having the same engine as the 1.9 GTi gives this car sublime performance, although it is coupled to a 4 speed auto box - the engine is lively and eager. Good deep throated 'growl' and quick acceleration when needed. Competent cruiser at motorway speeds.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Although PUGs aren't known for their reliability, mine has been faultless - but this has been down to the strict religious adherence to the service regime thus ensuring the car is serviced properly and fully in accordance to the manual.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Always had a great image. Since this is a GTi in all but name - superb fun car to own w/o the high (extortionate!) insurance grouping. This car is only a Grp 9 - compared to Grp 14!

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Perhaps the most luxurious PUG ever! It has a full leather interior (w/bucket/sports seats), PAS, electric windows, 4 speaker stereo system and 14"" alloy wheels - all as standard.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Unfortunately it lacks a factory fit alarm/immobiliser - however a Thatcham 2 or 'stoplock' device should do the trick.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    I've always been received warmly and politely by the Service and parts people. They've been very polite and patient.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Sublime is the only word I can use.

    Other

    People forget that the GENTRY is a GTi special edition, like the 'Radio 1 FM' model. But it isn't 'badged' as such. Also, there were only ever 400 of these sold in the UK - making this edition super-rare and super-desirable.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes