1989 Peugeot 505 GTi – Auction Car of the Week

Some classic cars serve to do nothing but baffle us. Not because of their design. Not because of their engine. But because, well, they have survived decades, seemingly unscathed. This 1989 Peugeot 505 GTi is a glowing case in point. Coming up on 35 years of age, this amazing machine has indeed survived, and not by the skin of its teeth. It’s survived well, and stands today with a mere 27,416 miles on the clock. How is that even possible? Baffling. A 505 GTi is a car to use, the kind of vehicle that you make excuses to to drive.

How the car’s three owners have spanned 35 years without sending this 505 GTi into the 100s of 1000s of miles is beyond us, but their loss presents itself as your gain. This is the finest chance you’re going to get to own a new car from 1989. The last rear-wheel drive saloon from Peugeot, no less. And a formidable one, too. The 505 was known for being rugged and tough, and the GTi was no exception. These cars, if looked after, last forever. And the market is  hot for them as a result. This 505 estate sold for £20,000 last year. And that’s a ‘normal’ estate. A GTi, however?

Step inside and you’ll find yourself swimming in a deep sea of blue velour. Welcoming and warming, it makes this cabin a truly special place. There are only two pedals, as this particular car is the arguably rarer automatic version, and as such, makes for a fun ‘point and squirt’ drive. The dash is clean and tidy, as are the carpets. The rear seats look to have rarely seen a bottom over the decades. It’s just wonderful.

Under the bonnet you’ll find the 2,165cc four-cylinder engine delivering 130bhp. Fuel injection is there too, naturally. It starts on the button, it’s been recently serviced and there are no leaks or squeaks to report. The engine by is no means a show winner, granted. This is an honest car, but not a concours car. That’s a job for the next owner. However, while there is some dirt and grime, underneath lies straight panels and no sign of any serious, untoward rust.

With just three owners and proven low mileage, this 1989 Peugeot 505 GTi is an opportunity not to be missed. Its honesty is the most refreshing aspect though. It’s got the odd imperfection and mark, there’s a bit of dirt here and there, but that’s good. Firstly, it means you can literally polish in more value should you secure the winning bid. Secondly, it shows that this car has not a single thing to hide. It’s a true, honest survivor. One deserving of a new, loving owner. One who’ll use it a bit more, hopefully!