The Peugeot 205 GTi is often regarded as being the definitive hot-hatch of the late eighties. Produced from 1984 to 1993 it remains a popular sight on the UK's roads and continues to be a trackday favorite. An independent Peugeot and Citroen specialist has now decided that an update program is in order so that it can live up to the demands of 21st century motoring. Pug1Off offers a wholesale performance upgrade, at the core of which is an engine transplant.

A 2.0-liter, 16-valve DOHC powerplant from the 306 GTi fits almost perfectly into the 205 GTi's engine bay and onto the original 5-speed transmission. Instead of the original 130hp 1.9-liter and 115hp 1.6-liter units, there's now 167hp on tap for a car that weighs just 895kg, so a not-too-shabby power-to-weight ratio of 186hp/ton. The conversion costs £2,220, but there are plenty of other performance upgrades to consider. First off the engine can be upgraded to 195hp via an ECU remap and tubular exhaust manifold amongst other things, and a stainless-steel exhaust can be fitted.

For another fee, the Peugeot 306's 6-speed gearbox can be secured, as can the larger brakes off the 206 GTi, while there's also a rally-spec suspension upgrade courtesy of Group N. For the full set of upgrades a price of around £10,000 will have to be paid, which is a serious wedge of cash to spend on an eighties hot-hatch. That being said, given the love that's out there for 205 GTis we wouldn't be surprised if a few of these conversions found good homes.