Compromised Internals

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

The 1966 Rallye de Lorraine quietly upheld its reputation as one of France’s most technically punishing tarmac events. Though lacking the international spotlight of Monte Carlo or the Alpine Rally, Lorraine consistently tested driver patience, rhythm, and precision across narrow rural roads, misty forests, and damp spring terrain. It was a rally that rewarded consistency and punished aggression.

Route

Total Distance: ~1,150 kilometers

Surface: Forest-edge tarmac, village streets, and narrow mountain roads

Key Hazards: Wet leaves, tight bends, and dense spring fog

Based in northeastern France near Nancy and Épinal, the rally route passed through the Vosges mountain range, offering steep climbs, winding descents, and blind forest sections. Variable weather created slick conditions, challenging drivers with rain-slicked tarmac, mud runoffs, and sudden fog.

Short stage formats and frequent rhythm changes demanded strong pace-note coordination and car stability across shifting grip conditions.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner

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2nd Place

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3rd Place

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Navigation & Challenges

The 1966 edition tested co-drivers just as much as drivers. Sudden fog banks and blind apexes demanded real-time pace-note accuracy. Several crews suffered penalties due to missed junctions and late check-ins on narrow village legs.

Co-Driver Role: Required constant pace recalculations and vocal timing precision
Timing Strategy: Emphasis on average speed control through irregular terrain
Stage Complexity: Frequent elevation shifts and inconsistent surface grip demanded adaptive throttle inputs

The Rallye de Lorraine remained a showcase of mental focus, car composure, and the quiet tension of French springtime tarmac rallying.

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