Even among the great hot hatches of the 1980s, the Peugeot 309 GTI carries itself with a certain quiet confidence.
Less obvious than the revered 205 GTI, it offers a bigger cabin, calmer handling and that same fizzing 1.9-litre XU9 engine when the road opens up.
The example featured here is a 1988 ‘phase one’ car, freshly restored and now offered by Iconic Auctioneers in an online sale. Bidding is already open, and the auction closes at 7pm UK time on Thursday 11 September 2025.
An unlikely hot hatch
Launched in 1985 after a late switch from Talbot Arizona to Peugeot badging, the 309 was manufactured in France, England and Spain. The GTI debuted in February 1987, first with three doors and then five, and stood apart thanks to a fog and driving lamps in its front bumper, Speedline alloy wheels and a large rear spoiler.
Tinted glass, a deep front airdam, a leather steering wheel and uprated suspension completed the package. The three-door gained pop-out rear glass, too. Period options included electric windows, central locking, a sunroof and a choice of solid black or metallic paints.
This particular 309 GTI was built in 1988 and has covered just over 76,000 miles with six former keepers. It has been treated to a full respray to match its tidy interior and well-sorted mechanicals. An HPI check notes the car was originally delivered in white, although photos from around the turn of the century show it already in the more desirable black.
Brilliant on a B-road
A thorough round of maintenance in 2017 and 2018 provided the Peugeot with a new timing belt, water pump, radiator and clutch kit, plus a full brake overhaul with new pipes, hoses, discs, pads, rear calipers and handbrake cables. Four new Uniroyal Rain tyres were fitted, too.
In 2021 and 2022 the car received a replacement steering column universal joint, a new power steering supply pipe and a refreshed first and second gear synchro, along with ignition parts including a distributor cap and HT leads. It has also received a full service, so the routine jobs are up to date.
Where a 205 GTI is all quick feet and bright edges, the 309 GTI is known for bringing extra composure without losing urge. Indeed, it feels torquier than its smaller sibling. Iconic Auctioneers notes this car has factory-fitted power steering, which makes town driving easy while preserving feel on a good B-road. It turns in crisply, rides the UK’s broken surfaces with a supple gait and keeps its driver constantly in the loop.
Up for auction now
The 309 GTI has spent years living in the shadow of the 205, yet many owners rate its build quality and long-legged poise. As 1980s icons continue to climb in value, the 309 is a compelling way to enjoy the classic Peugeot hot hatch experience with a touch more maturity.
This nicely restored example, sensibly upgraded where needed and kept close to original specification elsewhere, should land squarely in that sweet spot for regular use.
Iconic Auctioneers has this 1988 Peugeot 309 GTI for sale online now, with only a day remaining. Get bidding before one of the Retro Motor team beats you to it…
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