History 1960s

1965 Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

The 1965 Alpine Rally, known officially as the Coupe des Alpes, maintained its status as one of the most scenic yet grueling asphalt rallies in Europe. Traversing the high mountain passes of France, Italy, and Switzerland, the event pushed even seasoned drivers to their limits with tight switchbacks, sudden elevation shifts, and a strict schedule that penalized even minor delays.

Event Name: 1965 Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes)

Date: July 1965

Start/Finish Location: Marseille, France

Total Distance: Approximately 2,800 kilometers

Participating Teams: Over 90 crews

Route

Col du Galibier & Col de l'Iseran: High-altitude passes with steep gradients and narrow roads.
Italian Dolomites: Included fast technical sections and dramatic elevation changes.
Swiss Alps: Smooth but unforgiving descents requiring precise braking control.

The route covered some of Europe’s most iconic alpine terrain:

The event emphasized regularity and pace maintenance across thousands of hairpin turns, often with minimal guardrails and erratic summer storms adding risk.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Pauli Toivonen & Ensio Mikander · Citroën DS 21
2nd Place
Jean Vinatier · Alpine A110
3rd Place
Vic Elford · Ford Lotus Cortina

Toivonen’s consistency and the DS 21’s ability to handle steep climbs and descents proved decisive. Vinatier’s lightweight Alpine A110 impressed on tighter stages, while Elford’s Ford brought brute pace and endurance.

Navigation & Challenges

The 1965 Alpine Rally rewarded precision and perseverance. With its iconic setting and no room for error, it stood as a true test of rally craft and machine discipline across the heart of Europe's mountains.

  • Elevation Stress: Rapid altitude changes affected carburetor performance and driver endurance.
  • Strict Timing: Minimal tolerance for delays made consistent speed vital.
  • Weather Swings: Drivers encountered everything from blazing sun to hail within a single leg.
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