8. Peugeot 205 Turbo 16
Peugeot’s 205 T16 Evo 2 was the acme of mid-1980s rally mania. Originally introduced in 1984, the Evo 2 iteration arrived in late 1985 with revised aerodynamics, wider tracks, and upgraded suspension. Its homologation special—approximately 200 road-going “Stradale” examples—featured a mid-mounted 1.8 L turbocharged four-cylinder outputting some 200 hp. Matched to a sophisticated H-pattern five-speed and full-time four-wheel drive, the Evo 2 Stradale lit up backroads with razor-sharp reflexes.
Its wedge-shaped body, massive rear wing, and massive fender flares were unabashedly functional, honed for maximum downforce and cooling. While Peugeot’s racing 205 T16s won multiple World Rally Championships, the Evo 2 Stradale brought that uncompromised race spirit to the street. Today, it stands as one of the most iconic—and collectible—road-legal rally cars ever built.