Peugeot 205

vs

Peugeot 405

France vs France — 1983 vs 1988

Peugeot 205 (1983)
Peugeot 405 (1988)
Specifications
205 GTI 1.9405 Mi16
Horsepower130 hp160 hp
Torque125 lb-ft134 lb-ft
Engine Size1,905 cc1,905 cc
0-60 mph7.8 sec7.5 sec
Top Speed130 mph138 mph
¼ Mile16.0 sec15.6 sec
Weight2,414 lbs
Wheelbase2,420 mm2,670 mm
Length3,705 mm4,408 mm
Value (Excellent)$60,000$18,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity5/107/10
The Verdict

The 1988 Peugeot 405 Mi16 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1983 Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1983 Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 and 1988 Peugeot 405 Mi16 share a manufacturer in Peugeot, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Peugeot brand. The 1988 Peugeot 405 Mi16 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 130 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peugeot 205 uses a Inline-4 SOHC 8V displacing 1,905 cc, while the Peugeot 405 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,905 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1988 Peugeot 405 Mi16 edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 7.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 1983 Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 commands a significant premium over the 1988 Peugeot 405 Mi16, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.