Peugeot 205 1.9 GTi. R.H.D - Original Japanese Market Supplied. Low Mileage.
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Zero Corrosion since new & In Stunning Concours Condition.
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DETAILS
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MODEL HISTORY
The 205 1.9 GTi needs no introduction to anybody in the U.K. who was a hot-hatch enthusiast in the ‘80s & '90s. Back then, all magazines held this little Peugeot in the highest regard for its immensely entertaining handling abilities & abilities to provide sheer driving enjoyment... There was never a dull journey. Despite being small, its lightweight design meant it was fun & practical to use, whilst being attractive to look at.
In hot hatch terms, this was the truest Peugeot legend which some will argue has never since been bettered by this marque, despite subsequent attempts that cannot be counted on just the digits of one hand...
Weighing just 880kg & being of small design with a well-developed chassis meant the 205 1.9 GTi was and still remains one of the best-handling hot hatches ever built.
Having been keen enthusiasts for hot hatches ourselves, back in the '80s & '90s, we've always taken a keen interest during the few occasions when top condition examples of these iconic 205 GTi 1.9’s have come up in Japan.
Finding a good 205 GTi 1.9 in Japan is very rare as so few of such cars were actually supplied new in here, where the majority were supplied in LHD. We’ve only come across 2 RHD examples in 5 years, despite always being on the lookout and bought both, the first time being in 2015.
Being prepared to invest what it takes to secure the very best low mileage rust-free examples, to then perfect thoroughly is what we are known for in all the work we do.
This one is a unique gem. Read on to find out exactly why.
EQUIPMENT
The interior is standard and original aside from a a period correct Alpine CD/Radio.
The lack of wear and U.V. ageing is a testament of how well this car has been cared for during its life in Japan.
Being a JDM supplied model, this 205 GTi 1.9 has very rare factory fitted air-conditioning, which has been entirely serviced by us and renewed, complete with a new compressor, seals and R134a adaptor. It blows ice-cold.
The original fitted mats that came with this car were aged, so this example comes with a brand new custom-fitted set, complete with "205 GTi" inscribed on the front mats.
EXTERIOR
Despite having been lovingly maintained, garaged and kept out of the sun when stored, when found, we could see the original paint on this car had aged from a long life.
After nearly 30 years of washing and polishing, general wear & tear in Japan had taken a toll on the paint’s original depth & shine.
In truth, the original Peugeot factory paint was never of great quality nor depth to begin with!
Most importantly to us though, being a JDM supplied example, this example has never had rust on the bodywork. A diamond in the rough, in our eyes.
So after purchasing this 205 in Japan, we imported to the U.K. and the body then underwent the best-quality bodywork restoration we could commission.
First, it was completely stripped bare by ourselves. A well-known specialist used to working on supercars removed all pin dents and panels were perfected for straightness, to avoid using filler repairs.
Then as a bare shell with all glass, doors, boot & bonnet removed, it was transported using our purpose made trailer to MW Bodyshop, who are known for their fine work on classic cars. They’re not shy of being commissioned to restore the bodywork of highly-prized vintage Rolls Royce and other fine marques. Having a long relationship, this little 205 was entrusted to them, with no rush at all. We wanted perfection.
The 205 was stripped to bare metal, before being repainted with best quality paint - in original Flint Grey metallic. It was then collected and returned to our UK partner JT Auto Classic’s workshop, where it spent months. Trim, lights and other parts were replaced and perfected, including restoring the vacuum system to seal the sunroof. The concluded result speaks for itself. The finish is of far better quality than any 205 ever rolled off the production line.
If you’re after the very best possible quality, you’re looking at it.
INTERIOR
The interior has been beautiful & stunningly well kept. The half leather & cloth interior has no fading or holes and bolsters are also in good condition. And the leather remains soft & supple. It’s rare to find such an original interior and a testament to the care this car has had during its lifetime. Interior condition is amongst the very best of what we have typically seen in 205's in Japan, let alone Europe, where mileages tend to be a lot higher. Carpets are all original and without staining too.
It has been a non-smoker's car and it would appear the cigar lighter has never been used either.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Following our usual attention to detail with every aspect, this example is not only in perfect mechanical health, starting instantly and settling down to a steady idle after it's warm-up, but has a good tight gearbox with no synchromesh also wear problems.
All engine service items (ignition included) have been changed as part of our preparation. For good measure, the fuel system has also been overhauled, with a new fuel pump.
Over the years, it’s not uncommon for muck to accumulate in the fuel system. None present on this example. It runs perfectly.