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Peugeot 208 GTi Limited Edition is a nod to the 205

Peugeot celebrating anniversary of 205 GTi with special 208 anniversary model.

If you remember when the Peugeot 205 GTi first arrived in 1984, prepare to feel even older. The inauguration of the badge, which indicates a focus on performance, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a limited edition 208 GTi.

Two colours for the price of one
Two colours for the price of one

The 208 GTi anniversary Limited Edition unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed has been given more power. A 1.6-litre THP petrol engine develops 300Nm of torque and 208hp, which is a noticeable upgrade from the standard 208 GTi’s 197bhp and 275Nm.

Put pedal to metal and you can expect 0 to 62mph in 6.5 seconds and a standing kilometre in 26.5 seconds. 50 to 70mph takes 6 seconds in fifth gear. Not bad for a car that spews out a measly 125g/km of CO2 emissions and has Stop and Start technology to keep you from wasting fuel unnecessarily.

There are plenty of other nods to the classic performance hatchback that paved the way for many imitators. It comes with matt black on the grille surround, fog lamp bezels and door mirror shells, giving it a more menacing and old-school look compared with the usual shiny chrome.

Even the rims are matt black, which current and ex-boy-racers will appreciate. A window trim strip is the cherry on the top of what is a real attempt at bringing back a touch of that spirit of old only recently revived by the excellent RCZ-R.

Speaking of the RCZ-R, the 208 GTi Limited Edition inherits a few bits and bobs such as a six-speed manual gearbox (the standard 208 GTi is automatic only) and a Torsen differential for a more involving drive. Peugeot has even told the ESP and traction control to do less work so there’s less electrical nannying.

Not only that, recalibrated suspension, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres and a wider track ensure better agility and handling in the corners. Meanwhile Brembo four-piston calipers do their best to keep you out of trouble.

Move your eyes away from the red and black two-tone external paintjob (Pearl White and Ruby Red are also available) and inside you will see Peugeot has been busy adding red seat belts, red high-quality floor mats and Peugeot Sport-developed front bucket seats trimmed mainly in Alcantara.

You will be able to buy the 208 GTi from November 2014. No word on a price just yet, but we can safely assume it will be a significant premium on the standard model’s entry-level price of £18,995.

Peugeot 208 GTi anniversary Limited Edition pictures

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