France vs France — 1984 vs 1986
| 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 | 309 GTI | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 350 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 288 lb-ft | 125 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,775 cc | 1,905 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 7.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 162 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,172 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 3,825 mm | 4,070 mm |
| Units Produced | 200 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $600,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1986 Peugeot 309 GTI counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 for outright capability, or the 1986 Peugeot 309 GTI for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Peugeot has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 with the 1986 Peugeot 309 GTI highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 350 hp compared to 130 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 uses a Inline-4 Turbo DOHC 16V displacing 1,775 cc, while the Peugeot 309 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,905 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 7.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 commands a significant premium over the 1986 Peugeot 309 GTI, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.