Peugeot Australia to offer the final 30 208 GTis at a 1980s price of $29,500
- Customers gain thousands of dollars in specification over 1980s price
- Offer ends October 21, 2015 or until stocks last^
The 1980s saw the launch of many cult classics, arguably headed by the Back to the Future trilogy and Peugeot’s eponymous 205 GTi hot hatch.
Some thirty years on, Peugeot Australia will go back to the future offering its final run of current 208 GTi, the spiritual successor to the 205 GTi, at its original 1980s recommended retail price of $29,500*.
Much like when Marty travelled from 1985 to 2015 in Back to the Future 2, the limited offer will expire on October 21, 2015 or until stocks last.
When launched in Australia the 205 GTi featured a naturally aspirated 1.9 litre four-cylinder drivetrain developing 88kW and 153Nm of torque.
Drive was via the front wheels with power transferred by a 5 speed manual, enough to propel the vehicle to 100km/h (yet not quite the 88 miles per hour required for time travel) in 8.5 seconds.
Today’s 208 GTi features a turbocharged 1.6 litre drivetrain developing 147kW and 275Nm; enough to cover the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.8 seconds.
Drive remains via the front wheels, with power placed to the ground via a 6-speed manual transmission.
The 208 GTi scores the following improvements over its 1980 sibling:
- More powerful drivetrain
- 7 inch touch screen with satellite navigation
- Cruise control with electronic speed limiter
- six airbags
- ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution
- Emergency Brake Assist
- Remote control central locking and alarm
- Rear parking sonar
- Dual zone climate control air conditioning
- Power steering
- Electric windows and folding mirrors
- Electro chromatic rear view mirror
- 6 speaker audio
- Steering wheel audio controls
- Bluetooth and AUX connectors
- Trip computer
- 17 inch alloy wheels
- Cornering fog lamp function
- Follow me home illumination
- LED daytime running lamps
- Longer warranty
John Startari, General Manager of Peugeot Australia, said the 20-series Peugeots an in particular the GTi models, have held iconic status for over 30 years.
“Since it launched 30 years ago the Peugeot 205 GTi has always been viewed as an icon, one of the greats of the hot hatch segment and we thought it fitting to recognise its status with its spiritual successor; the 208 GTi,” said Startari.
“While we can’t travel back in time it’s amazing to think just how far vehicles have come in 30 years – particularly the humble hatchback.
“In 1985 the idea of a vehicle having Bluetooth, satellite navigation and the like was as believable as a flying car that ran on plutonium. Yet today it’s the reality and for such a little difference in price.
“We are certain that all 30 vehicles will be spoken for fairly quickly, so our only advice is to get in to a dealer before you’re OUTATIME,” said Startari.
The last remaining 30 Peugeot 208 GTi will make way for a revised model late in 2015, with final details and pricing announced closer to launch.
*Pricing quoted is recommended retail price and does not include on-road costs or metallic paint.
^Offer expires October 21, 2015 or until stocks last. Offer valid on existing stocks only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.
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