Best 1980s Hot Hatches: Five Icons Compared
Wednesday 21st October 2026 - 6 minute read - THE MARKET
At a glance: 1980s hot hatches compared
| Car | Power | 0-60mph | Best known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Golf GTI | 110bhp (MKI 1.6L) | 8.4s (MKI 1.6L) | The car that started it all |
| Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 | 130bhp | 7.8s | Handling |
| Renault 5 GT Turbo | 115bhp | 7.5s | Turbo punch |
| Ford Escort XR3i | 108bhp | 8.6s | British popularity |
| Vauxhall Astra GTE (MKI 1.8) | 115bhp | 8.5s | Refinement |
What is a hot hatch?
Why was 120bhp enough?
Volkswagen Golf GTI: the one that started it
1983 Volkswagen Golf GTi
Peugeot 205 GTI: the best to drive
1988 Peugeot 205 GTi
Renault 5 GT Turbo: the characterful one
1985 Renault 5 GT Turbo
Ford Escort XR3i: the British favourite
1983 Ford XR3i
Vauxhall Astra GTE: the civilised one
1985 Vauxhall Astra GTE Mk1
