History 1960s

1967 1000 Lakes Rally (Finland)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1967 1000 Lakes Rally (Jyväskylän Suurajot)

Date: August 18–20, 1967

Start/Finish Location: Jyväskylä, Finland

Total Distance: Approximately 1,837 kilometers

Participating Teams: Around 100 crews

The 1967 1000 Lakes Rally was one of the fastest and most thrilling events of the European rally season. Celebrated for its flowing gravel roads, rhythmic jumps, and dense forest scenery, it was a natural battleground for Finland’s fearless drivers. The rally was not only a speed contest but a true test of reflexes, courage, and vehicle control—earning its place as a cornerstone of rally legend.

Route

Ouninpohja & Urria: Famous for their high-speed crests, narrow lanes, and tree-lined walls demanding full commitment.
Jyväskylä Outskirts: Rural forest tracks and lakeside gravel with limited visibility and near-constant surface shifts.
Almost No Tarmac: The event was almost entirely gravel-based, with long sweeping corners, soft shoulders, and loose surface traction dictating tire and damper setup.

The stages crisscrossed central Finland’s Lakeland region, creating a unique blend of speed and precision:

With nearly non-existent run-off zones, even a minor mistake could end a rally instantly against the unforgiving forest backdrop.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Timo Mäkinen & Pekka Keskitalo · BMC Mini Cooper S
2nd Place
Simo Lampinen · Saab 96 V4
3rd Place
Hannu Mikkola & Anssi Järvi · Volvo 122S

Mäkinen's legendary performance included driving one stage—Ouninpohja—with the bonnet obscuring his view due to a faulty latch, yet he still posted the third-fastest time. His victory marked a third consecutive 1000 Lakes win, further cementing his place in rally history.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Blind Crests: Dozens of jumps demanded knowledge of landing lines and speed discipline.
  • Surface Changes: Drivers constantly adjusted grip expectations as forest humidity, dust, and loose gravel varied between stages.
  • Driver Endurance: High speeds and relentless concentration requirements wore down even the most seasoned crews.

The 1967 1000 Lakes Rally wasn’t just about speed—it was about knowing the rhythm of the Finnish forests. Those who did became legends.

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