1990 Peugeot 205 GTi review from UK and Ireland

Starter motor failing when purchased.

Clutch needs changing.

Front brakes need changing.

Bolster on driver's collapsing.

Rear suspension squeaking.

Split coolant hoses (x2) and corroded coolant pipe.

Engine is awesome for its size and only 8 valve, gearbox keeps revs high in engine's power band (above 5000RPM to rev limiter) - very close gearing, but short 5th gear is pain on motorway.

Handling is light, sharp and very responsive with very well controlled body roll, will out handle much bigger/sportier cars. However, although it is one of the best handling hatches ever made the handling is not for novices at it's limits, as it's handling is not neutral on the limits - lifting off the throttle brings the rear end tighter into line, but lifting off too much results in the rear end breaking away (many 205 GTi's crash going in the wrong direction!)

Apart from it's performance as a car it's very similar to a normal 205, interior doesn't wear too well under heavy use and can start creaking/rattling, but the car is perfectly practical otherwise.

Steering can be heavy around town esp. if oversized tyres are fitted.

They are perfectly reliable if maintained properly and regularly.

Brakes are very good, but in comparison to the speeds it's capable of and its handling abilities one could say they are not 100% in sync. but that's just my opinion depends how you drive really.

Sometimes you need a blast in the country to remind you of what the car's all about if you spend too much time driving in towns!