Becoming a benchmark for hot hatchbacks since its 1984 launch, the 205 GTI is revered as a small but feisty performance car and icon of the 1980s.

Based on the standard 205, the GTI came with Bosch fuel injection for a 1.6-litre engine, a specialized, close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission, modified suspension as well as wheel arch extensions, side moulding strips and chunky bumper valances. It was an instant hit, and it wasn’t long before Peugeot released a 1.9-litre upgrade in 1986 which shaved nearly one second off the 0-60 mph time.

This Tolman Motorsport Edition is a complete rebuild and restoration with 21st century twists including a modern audio system, digital dashboard and uprated performance, reliability and functionality. It manages to stay true to the car’s original essence and has been called a “better-than-new incarnation” of the iconic classic by Top Gear Magazine.

Loan courtesy of Tolman Motorsport.