Peugeot’s 80s throwback GTI

Peugeot has unveiled a memorable landmark variant to celebrate three decades of the firm's legendary GTI models, the 208 GTI 30th. A strictly limited edition of 300 cars, 100 of which will be built in right hand drive, the 30th has slightly more power than the standard model 208 GTI and can accelerate from 0-100kmh in 6.4 secs.

The 1.6-litre THP turbo petrol engine is boosted to 208hp and 300Nm, while the engineers have also been at the chassis. Most significantly, the 208 GTI 30th gets the Torsen front differential that does such sterling work in the RCZ-R coupe, as well as a 10mm drop in the suspension height, while the track is 22mm wider at the front and 16mm wider at the rear. 18" wheels, finished in black, are standard.

Aside from needing to be lucky to track down one of the 100 RHD examples, you’ll also need to be something of an extrovert if you want one in that red and black colour scheme, although quieter, more straightforward red and white are also available.

That red and black theme continues on the inside, with red flashes on the seats, doors and seatbelts.

The car is, of course, designed to mark the 30th anniversary of the iconic 205 GTI hatchback, launched all those years ago in 1984. That car became such a legend that almost every sporty Peugeot since has suffered by comparison. Peugeot will be hoping that at last it has found the magic ingredients to create a giant-slaying hot hatch for the 21st century.