Ewy Rosqvist

Rosqvist was not merely symbolic — she was one of the most capable endurance drivers of her generation, excelling in brutal events that tested both machine and mental focus.

• Mercedes-Benz 220 SE (W111): Dubbed the "Panzer Rally Car," it was known for its weight and rugged durability — which Rosqvist used to great effect on the punishing Argentine stages.
• Mercedes-Benz 300 SE: Upgraded version used in later endurance events; Rosqvist helped develop and test suspension and reliability features.
• Opel Commodore and Rekord: Used during her transition to Opel’s rally program in the mid-to-late 1960s.

While others favored lighter and more nimble cars, Rosqvist's mastery of heavy, powerful sedans made her uniquely successful in long-distance, high-speed endurance rallies.

Ewy Rosqvist emphasized smoothness, precision, and mechanical sympathy. She thoroughly studied route maps and engine behavior, and her background as a veterinary technician instilled a scientific, observational discipline. Her approach relied on efficiency over aggression, maximizing tire wear and fuel economy while maintaining competitive speeds. She became a national hero in Sweden and an international icon, inspiring generations of female drivers and engineers.

Her success helped pave the way for equality in motorsport long before it became part of mainstream conversations.

Rosqvist’s career was defined by teamwork and respect for the co-driver’s role. Her partnership with Ursula Wirth was legendary — built on mutual trust, strategic planning, and impeccable communication. Together, they showed that consistency, calmness under pressure, and detailed pace notes could outclass raw speed. Their victory in Argentina became a cultural milestone, broadcast internationally as proof that women could dominate even the toughest motorsport events.