Peugeot 205 Turbo 16

vs

Ford Escort

France vs UK — 1984 vs 1975

Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 (1984)
Ford Escort (1975)
Specifications
205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2Escort RS2000 Mk2
Horsepower350 hp110 hp
Torque288 lb-ft117 lb-ft
Engine Size1,775 cc1,993 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec9.2 sec
Top Speed162 mph110 mph
¼ Mile13.0 sec16.8 sec
Weight2,160 lbs
Wheelbase2,420 mm2,400 mm
Length3,825 mm4,032 mm
Units Produced200
Value (Excellent)$600,000$75,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity10/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1975 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2 answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between France and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 versus 1975 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 350 hp compared to 110 hp, a 240-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 Ford Escort relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,993 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 2 commands a significant premium over the 1975 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1975 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.