Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2
The Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 was one of the most extraordinary vehicles ever to carry a license plate. Created to homologate Peugeot's Group B rally car, the T16 took the humble 205 bodyshell and transformed it into a mid-engined, four-wheel-drive supercar that bore almost no mechanical relation to the standard road car.
The 1,775cc XU8T inline-four engine was mounted transversely behind the cockpit — where the rear seats would normally be. Fitted with a Garrett T3 turbocharger, air-to-air intercooler, and Bosch Motronic fuel injection, the Evolution 2 road car produced 350 horsepower at 7,000 rpm. Competition versions produced over 500 horsepower, and development units exceeded 600 hp.
The four-wheel-drive system used a Ferguson viscous coupling center differential to distribute power between the front and rear axles. The transverse mid-engine layout gave the T16 excellent weight distribution and the traction to deploy its considerable power effectively. A five-speed manual gearbox transmitted power, with the gear lever operating in a conventional gate despite the unusual powertrain layout.
The body was a masterpiece of competitive evolution. While it retained the basic shape of a 205, virtually every panel was unique to the T16. The Evolution 2 featured dramatically wider fenders, a massive rear wing, extensive aerodynamic appendages, and functional air intakes for the mid-mounted engine and its cooling systems. The body panels were fiberglass and Kevlar rather than steel.
In WRC competition, the 205 T16 was devastatingly effective. It won the 1985 and 1986 World Rally Championship constructors' titles, and Timo Salonen won the 1985 drivers' championship. The T16 also competed in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, where Ari Vatanen's famous run was captured in the film 'Climb Dance.'
Only 200 road-going T16 Evolution 2 models were produced — the minimum required for Group B homologation. Today, the 205 T16 is one of the most valuable and sought-after rally homologation specials, representing the absolute zenith of the Group B era that was so spectacular it was ultimately banned for being too dangerous.
With only 200 built, provenance is critical — verify through Peugeot Classic and the 205 T16 registry. The turbocharged engine is powerful but stressed — check for turbo condition, head gasket integrity, and boost control function. Composite body panels are unique and difficult to source. Four-wheel-drive system must function correctly. Service history from Group B-experienced specialists is essential.
Approximately 200 Evolution 2 units were produced at Peugeot's facility in collaboration with Heuliez in 1985-1986. The minimum 200 units were required for Group B homologation. The car was hand-assembled with extensive use of composite body panels.