1987 Peugeot 205 XS from UK and Ireland - Comments

One of the drive-shafts sheered its teeth.

Dashboard fell apart.

Fan made a very annoying squeaking sound.

Speedo cable snapped.

Engine occasionally cuts out when doing 4000 revs per minute in fifth gear - about 75mph.

I've had the car for almost two years now and although it has had its minor problems, it has been very good.

I realised a little while after I had bought the car that I should have got one of the later revised models, as they have the newer Tu series engines.

At present, the car is in a state of metamorphosis, as I am upgrading almost all the parts on the car. So far I have added Avo fully adjustable suspension, a full stainless exhaust, 17" alloy wheels, bucket seats, and a full bodykit.

I have also tidied up the car by changing the dash for the later style (it was lots of work and not really recommended unless you know exactly what you are doing) and added central locking and electric windows for convenience.

The next stage is for me to transplant a 1.6 litre 16 valve engine from the 106 Gti to replace the old and clattery engine that currently resides in my engine bay, with it of course the brakes from a 306 GTi-6 will follow as the standard brakes are just about capable of stopping the standard car, let alone one with and a half times the power.

Keep you eye out in magazines such as Fast Car and Redline, as I should be having a full feature before the year is out.

Just about to also buy a 205 STDT as I need something which does more miles to the gallon and a gear ratio to tackle motorway driving with.

I have to disagree with your comment about the later TU engine. They're gearing is even lower, and the actual engine is not as strong as the XY8 unit. A TU will be lucky to last 150k miles. An XY will last 200k or more!

I have the same car. It has 200k kilometers on and still going strong. I don't treat her too well either!

Gearboxes are noisy, they're in the sump like a mini, clutch is a big job; engine out - or dropped at least.

Changed driveshafts also, they're good now though, no signs of wear after a year or two.

Parts are too expensive for such a cheapo car...