The 205 GTi was launched in 1984, powered by a 1.6-litre engine, which made 103 bhp. Not much by today’s standards, but the little car weighed just 850kg. Two years later, in 1986, power was increased to 113bhp, but at the same time the kerb weight swelled to 900kg blunting the car’s performance slightly. Also in 1986, the ultimate 205 GTI 1.9 was launched. It produced 130 bhp and thanks to the engine’s increased stroke, it was torquier. To handle the increase in performance – a healthy example can do 0-100 kph in 7.8sec – the 1.9 has disc brakes all round. And of course these beautiful 15" wheels - probably still one of the best wheel designs ever.

This example was delivered new in Japan, and was in 2009 imported in Europe by a collector as it only had 38.600 km on the clocks and in completely original condition. In 2016 it came to Belgium to its third owner who further cared for the car and kept it in absolute top condition. The mileage today is 40.850 km and the little Peugeot looks like it's only a couple of months old and doesn't show its age of 34 years. The car is still completely in first paint, and the iconic red and black interior looks like new. Driving this French pocket rocket is a real blast, and is the best proof that less weight guarantees much more driving pleasure.

As prices of good examples of the marvellous 205 GTI 1.9 are soaring, we expect that this example won't be available for long. So if you've been looking for that ultimate GTI from your childhood for a while then this is the right time to make that dream come true.