Peugeot 505 GTI
The Peugeot 505 GTI represented the pinnacle of Peugeot's rear-wheel-drive sedan lineage, a car that combined Pininfarina's elegant styling with a chassis tuned to perfection for high-speed touring. In an era when most European manufacturers were transitioning to front-wheel drive, the 505 GTI's traditional rear-drive layout gave it a driving character that few contemporaries could match.
The 505's body was designed by Pininfarina, continuing the Italian studio's long relationship with Peugeot. The design was clean, understated, and beautifully proportioned, with a low waistline that gave the car a visually lighter appearance than its actual dimensions suggested. The GTI version added subtle enhancements including alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, and discreet badging.
Powered by the 1,995cc XN1 engine with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, the 505 GTI produced 130 horsepower. Later versions received the more powerful 2.2-liter engine. The car's relatively modest power output belied its real-world performance capability. On autoroutes and sweeping A-roads, the 505 GTI was in its element, maintaining high speeds with a stability and composure that few rivals could approach.
The chassis was the 505's greatest strength. The independent rear suspension, using trailing arms and coil springs, provided excellent wheel control and a supple ride quality that soaked up rough surfaces without disturbing the car's composure. The steering was direct and communicative, and the rear-wheel-drive layout provided a natural, progressive handling balance that rewarded smooth driving inputs.
The 505's reputation for durability became legendary, particularly in Africa, where the car proved virtually indestructible on unpaved roads and in extreme climates. The robust mechanicals, excellent suspension travel, and strong build quality made it the default choice for NGOs, governments, and businesses operating in sub-Saharan Africa. Many 505s accumulated enormous mileages in service conditions that would destroy lesser vehicles.
The interior offered genuine comfort, with well-shaped seats that provided excellent long-distance support. The dashboard was logically laid out, and build quality was good. The GTI specification added leather upholstery, power windows, and enhanced instrumentation.
The Peugeot 505 GTI is now appreciated as one of the last great rear-wheel-drive French sedans. Its combination of Pininfarina elegance, engaging driving dynamics, and legendary durability makes it a compelling classic. Well-maintained European-market examples are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts who value driving quality over badge prestige.
Rust is the primary enemy, particularly in sills, rear wheel arches, and boot floor. Check the independent rear suspension for worn bushings and corroded components. The XN engine is robust but check for head gasket history. Bosch injection system requires specialist knowledge. Interior leather can crack and replacements are scarce. European-spec cars are more desirable than US-market versions.
The 505 was produced from 1979 to 1992 in Europe, with production continuing in Africa and South America until the early 2000s. Pininfarina designed the body. The GTI was the top sporting specification. Estate, Turbo Injection, and V6 variants were also available.