Model Variant:
All variants including hatchback, convertible (Cti/CT), GTi, Rallye, diesel, and commercial vehicles.
Model Code:
Various, dependent on body style and engine. Common codes include Type 741A for hatchback.
Segment:
Supermini / Hot Hatch
Era:
Late 1980s - 1990s iconic performance hatchback.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Escort XR3i, Renault 5 GT Turbo, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa GSi.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, agile handling, distinctive Pininfarina styling, accessible performance.
Performance Variants:
Renowned for the 205 GTi variants, especially the 1.6 and 1.9 litre models, which set benchmarks for the hot hatch segment.
Engine Coverage:
XU series naturally aspirated and turbocharged diesel engines (e.g., XUD7, XUD9), XY and TU series petrol engines (e.g., XY7, TU1, TU3, TU3S, XU5J, XU9J2, XU9J4).
Transmission Coverage:
Manual gearboxes (BE series) and Automatic gearboxes (AL4, AO).
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear torsion beam), steering (rack and pinion), brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs depending on variant), body structure, and rust prevention.
Electrical Coverage:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting systems, ignition systems, starting and charging systems, instrument cluster, and auxiliary electrical components.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Searchable and Printable)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing (belt/chain), lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (Bosch LE2-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition systems, emissions control systems, engine diagnostics (OBD I where applicable).
Transmission Mechanical:
Gearbox internal components, clutch system, driveshafts, CV joints.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (where fitted), brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedure.
Steering Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment specifications.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, hinges, interior trim, convertible top mechanism (for Cti).
Maintenance Routine:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement, fluid checks and top-ups, brake checks, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
System-by-system troubleshooting guides, diagnostic fault codes, component testing procedures.
Rebuilding Overhauling:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, gearbox overhaul, brake caliper/master cylinder rebuild, steering rack rebuild.
Electrical Repair:
Wiring harness repair, component testing (starter, alternator, ECU), diagnosing electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic information.
Petrol Engine Options:
1.0L (XY7), 1.1L (TU1), 1.3L (XY8), 1.4L (TU3, TU3S), 1.6L (XU5J), 1.9L (XU9J2, XU9J4 - GTi).
Diesel Engine Options:
1.4L (XUD7), 1.8L (XUD9).
Gtib 1.9 Performance:
Approx. 130 PS (96 kW) @ 6250 rpm, 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) @ 4750 rpm.
Gtib 1.6 Performance:
Approx. 115 PS (85 kW) @ 6250 rpm, 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm.
Fuel Injection Petrol:
Single-point or multi-point fuel injection (e.g., Bosch LE2-Jetronic, Motronic MA 1.3/MA 3.1 for later models).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded petrol (Octane rating varies by engine, typically 95/98 RON), Diesel.
Gearbox Types:
5-speed manual (BE1, BE3) standard on most performance variants, 4-speed automatic (AL4, AO) optional on some models.
Automatic Transmission Availability:
Available on non-GTi models, typically with 1.4L or 1.6L engines.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.
Length:
Approx. 3705 mm (145.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1610 mm (63.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in) for hatchback, higher for others.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2470 mm (97.2 in)
Kerb Weight:
Approx. 850 kg - 1000 kg depending on variant and engine.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not applicable (vehicle predates official Euro NCAP testing in its current form).
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums (standard), optional rear discs on GTi models. ABS available on later GTi and higher trim models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some later GTi models (TCS).
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner seatbelts (front, on later models), three-point rear seatbelts.
Airbags:
Driver airbag available as an option on later models, not standard across the range.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radios and cassette players, often with basic speaker configurations. Aftermarket upgrades common.
ABS:
Optional on higher-spec models, primarily later production runs.
Power Steering:
Standard on most GTi models and later variants, optional on base models.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era. Primarily manual door locks and windows, central locking available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Refer to manual; generally 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or 5 years for petrol engines (e.g., TU and XU series). Crucial to follow for preventing catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Grade:
Varies by engine. Common: 10W-40 or 15W-50 semi-synthetic or fully synthetic. Refer to manual for specific engine and climate recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or III.
Common Problems Petrol:
Timing belt failure leading to valve damage, carburation/injection issues, worn engine mounts, electrical gremlins, rust in wheel arches and sills.
Common Problems Diesel:
Glow plug issues, injector pump problems, head gasket failure, rust.
Common Problems Chassis:
Rear torsion beam bearing wear, front suspension wear (wishbone bushes, ball joints), brake servo issues, clutch slave cylinder leaks.
Marque Focus:
Peugeot, a French manufacturer with a long history in rally and motorsport.
Facelifts:
Several minor revisions and styling updates throughout its production run.
Iconic Status:
The 205 GTi became a defining icon of the 1980s and 1990s hot hatch era, celebrated for its driving dynamics.
Production Years:
1983 - 1997
Production Volume:
Over 5.3 million units produced globally.
Motoring Journalism:
Frequently lauded by motoring press for its driving dynamics, especially the GTi variants. Often ranked highly in 'greatest hot hatch' lists.
Rally Success:
Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 (T16) achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship (WRC), winning championships in 1985 and 1986.
Manufacturing Standards:
Produced to Peugeot's internal quality and manufacturing standards of the era.
