This Ultra Rare Hot Hatch Makes The GR Yaris Look Like A Toy
The 205 Turbo 16 emerged from the iconic Group B rally era, with the race version winning two consecutive WRC titles
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by Brad Anderson
The 205 Turbo 16 is powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 197 hp.
All 200 units built have the same grey paint scheme and are left-hand drive models.
This example has just 3,216 km on the clock and extensive mechanical refurbishment.
The Renault 5 Turbo may be the most legendary of the mid-engined hot hatches from the 1980s, but around the same time, Peugeot also built a mid-ship version of its 205, allowing it to compete in Group B rallying.
Only 200 road-going versions were ever made, and today, they’re among the most sought-after collector cars from the Group B era. Now, one exceptionally low-mileage example could sell for as much as $350,000 at auction next month.
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Peugeot’s rally effort paid off in spades, with the 205 T16 securing back-to-back WRC titles in 1985 and 1986. The production versions stayed true to the competition cars, minus some of the more exotic technology and race-specific aerodynamic flourishes. The every road version was finished in the same color and came with left-hand drive, a choice that simplified and streamlined the limited production run.
Compact Size, Serious Hardware
Found directly behind the passenger compartment is the original turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that delivered 197 hp and 188 lb-ft (255 Nm) when this car was new. That might not sound like much by today’s hot hatch standards, but power was sent to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. And don’t forget, this thing weighs under 1,000 kg, or about 2,200 lbs.
Bonhams
Bonhams is handling the sale of this particular 205 Turbo 16, which has seen careful attention in recent years. The current owner purchased the car in January 2022 and has since invested significantly in its mechanical health. Recent work includes a new suspension system, radiator, clutch, alternator, and upgraded coolant lines. Altogether, the seller is said to have spent $200,000 restoring and maintaining the vehicle.
Despite all of the work done, the car has only ever been driven 3,216 km (1,998 miles), no doubt making it one of the lowest-mileage 205 Turbo 16s in existence. To the uninitiated, it may not look very exciting, but if Bonhams’ pre-auction estimate is accurate, it could fetch as much as a brand new Ferrari 296 GTB.
Are rare homologation specials calling your name louder than modern supercars? This Peugeot’s got history, grit, and just enough weird to be irresistible. Check out the listing here and try not to bid with your heart.
Bonhams
