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Rowan Atkinson's Peugeot 205 Goes To Auction

This superbly presented second-generation 1989 Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi (Phase 1.5) is offered directly from the personal collection of Rowan Atkinson CBE at No Reserve.

The 205 GTi has always been one of the defining 'Hot Hatches' of the 1980s and 1990s and held in high regard, although it's becoming increasingly hard to find one in such good order, even more so with celebrity provenance.

Classic Car Auctions | 1989 Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi (Phase 1.5) | To Be Auctioned 28th September 2024

Rowan is known to be particularly fastidious when it comes to looking after his cars and this delightful little 205 GTI is no exception. Its condition belies the indicated 71,000 miles. However, with a number of other vehicles in his Collection, the little Peugeot has only covered 300 miles in his ownership and consequently is being offered for sale.

The second iteration of the successful 205 GTI (the Phase 1.5) was launched in the UK in January 1988 with production ending in July 1990. The 1.6 GTi was powered by the 1.6-litre, XU5, 4-cylinder offering 115bhp, 0-60 in 8.9 seconds and 121mph. On offer here is a 1989 example finished in gleaming Alpine White (Blanc Meije) with pepper-pot alloys and the optional glass sunroof.

Classic Car Auctions | 1989 Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi (Phase 1.5) | To Be Auctioned 28th September 2024

The 'Phase 1.5' interior appears in exceptional condition, almost time warped, it’s unmarked with cloth bolsters replacing the half-leather, red-stripe cloth inserts and bright red velour 'cut-pile' carpets. This superbly presented example was offered to well-known comedian, actor and long-term petrol head, Rowan Atkinson CBE around three years ago and he simply couldn't resist.

Having stood for a long period, there were a number of small jobs that needed attending to and this work was entrusted to Auto Ascari (7/11/2023 - £1,575 invoice in the file). Freshly MOT'd on 09/08/2024. Post MOT attention and detailing were carried out by T Clarke Automotive with a detailed invoice for £2,015.60 dated 22/08/2024 also in the file.

Classic Car Auctions | 1989 Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi (Phase 1.5) | To Be Auctioned 28th September 2024

More information on this car and all the others already entered to this sale can be found at www.classiccarauctions.co.uk . The CCA team offer FREE no obligation valuations for anyone interested in selling at this sale either via their website or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or speaking to one of their specialists on +44 (0) 1926 640 888. In person viewing of all the cars in the Sale will be available the day before the auction on Friday 27th September, from 10am to 4pm at the venue. The Auction will take place on Saturday 28th September from 11am at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.

If you are interested in exploring advertising with us, I encourage you to get in touch. Please feel free to contact me directly, and I will be more than happy to provide you with further information, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the process.

Nick Aylieff | Classic Motors For Sale | sales@classicmotorsforsale.com +44(0) 2392 160 809 | www.classicmotorsforsale.com

The History Of Jaguar

Jaguar, a name synonymous with luxury and performance, began its journey in 1922 as the Swallow Sidecar Company, founded by William Lyons and William Walmsley in Blackpool, England. Initially producing motorcycle sidecars, the company quickly expanded into the automobile market, launching its first car, the SS1, in 1931. The sleek design and superior performance of the SS1 set the tone for what would become Jaguar’s trademark: a combination of style, speed, and sophistication. The company rebranded as Jaguar Cars Limited in 1945, shedding the SS moniker due to its wartime connotations, and began focusing exclusively on automobiles.

Historics Auctioneers | 1952 Jaguar XK120 Roadster | £130,000.00

The post-war era saw Jaguar rise to prominence with the introduction of the XK120 in 1948, a car that became an instant icon due to its breathtaking design and record-breaking speed. Powered by a newly developed 3.4-liter straight-six engine, the XK120 set a new standard for sports cars and established Jaguar as a force to be reckoned with on the global stage. The 1950s and 1960s were golden years for Jaguar, with models like the C-Type and D-Type dominating Le Mans and securing the brand’s place in motorsport history. This period also saw the launch of the legendary E-Type in 1961, a car so beautiful that Enzo Ferrari himself famously called it "the most beautiful car ever made."

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Jaguar faced challenges as it transitioned through various ownerships and economic downturns. Despite these hurdles, the brand continued to produce remarkable vehicles, including the XJ series, which combined luxury with high performance. Jaguar’s commitment to innovation was evident with the launch of the XJ220 in 1992, a car that briefly held the title of the fastest production car in the world. However, financial struggles led to Jaguar being acquired by Ford in 1990, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its storied history.

Classicwise | 1962 Jaguar E Type 3.8 OTS convertible | £140,000.00

In 2008, Jaguar was sold to Tata Motors, an Indian conglomerate, alongside Land Rover. Under Tata's ownership, Jaguar experienced a resurgence, returning to its roots of blending performance with elegance. The introduction of models like the F-Type, which paid homage to the E-Type, and the all-electric I-PACE demonstrated Jaguar’s ability to innovate while respecting its rich heritage. Today, Jaguar continues to be a symbol of British automotive excellence, with a commitment to luxury, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology that remains as strong as ever.

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Rowan Atkinson's Peugeot 205 Goes To Auction

The History Of Jaguar