Peugeot 309 GTI: Spotted

Looks like the days of cheap 309 GTIs are over too!

It was a little over four years ago when the 309 GTI last came up in a PH classifieds discussion. Back then a meticulously maintained car with just over 100,000 miles would have cost you £1,750. Whoever bought that car made a great purchase...

Because in 2016, another three-door 309 GTI - with a much lower mileage, granted - is for sale at £10,000. Sure, it's a nicer example, but not that much so. What's happened then?

The 205 GTI, essentially. As values for that have skyrocketed, so the mechanically similar 309 has been brought up by association. It's happened elsewhere too: E28 M5s appreciated to a crazy level, drawing attention to the E34 M5 with which its engine was shared. As 964s became out of reach, so buyers moved to 993s to get their air-cooled 911 fix. And as Ferrari 355s continue to head towards six figures, the 360 Modena becomes more desirable as the next (and slightly more attainable) V8 berlinetta down the Ferrari line.

Now, when a 205 has sold for more than £30K and others are heading that way, the 309 was inevitably going to attract more attention. Good news for those trying to sell them, bad news for those who wanted one of Peugeot's best hatches on the cheap. Get a 306 GTI for sensible money while you still can...

While discussion will inevitably be around the price, it shouldn't be forgotten that the 309 GTI was a damn good car too. It's said to be better balanced (i.e. probably less likely to spin) than a 205 and, well, if it's anything like a 205 then it's going to be pretty special. Arguably it looks more appealing at £10K than an Astra GTE did at £9K.

This particular car must be as good as 309s get in 2016. It's said to be in stunning condition (and certainly appears so from the pictures), with just 59,000 recorded miles and two previous owners. It's the more desirable three-door, the wheels are immaculate and even the mudflaps look pristine. Is it too good to use? We'll leave that to you...

While it's galling to see cars that once were cheap now a lot more expensive, there is at least one saving grace. If the 309 does indeed continue to follow the 205, could it be worth more money further down the line? It's worth considering. What might also be worth looking at is this lovely Golf GTI, an 8V MkII in very 80s white at £8,995. Just don't imagine what both the 309 and Golf were worth about five years ago...

PEUGEOT 309 GTI
Engine:1,905cc, four-cylinder
Transmission:Five-speed manual
Power (hp): 132@6,000rpm
Torque (lb ft): 119@4,750rpm
MPG: 28
CO2: N/A
First registered: 1988
Recorded mileage: 59,000
Price then: £9,599
Yours for: £9,995