History 1960s

1961 Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Known as one of the most prestigious and picturesque rallies in Europe, the 1961 Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes) challenged competitors with a relentless series of alpine passes across France, Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. Renowned for its beauty and brutality, the event tested endurance, handling, and high-altitude performance in equal measure.

Event Name: 1961 Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes)

Date: July 1961

Start/Finish Location: Marseille, France

Total Distance: Over 3,000 kilometers

Participating Teams: Approximately 100 crews

Route

Col de Turini: A legendary ascent packed with hairpins and sheer cliffs.
Grossglockner Pass: Austria’s towering climb offered breathtaking altitude and tight switchbacks.
Stelvio & Iseran Passes: High-elevation segments with technical descents and frequent visibility changes.

The rally spanned some of the most iconic mountain passes in Europe, from the French Alps to Austria’s high peaks. Competitors battled a mix of tight hairpins, steep descents, and unpredictable weather that could shift from sun to sleet in minutes.

The course rewarded stamina, smooth driving, and mechanical reliability over pure speed.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Donald Morley & Erle Morley · Austin-Healey 3000
2nd Place
Rauno Aaltonen & Tony Ambrose · Austin-Healey 3000
3rd Place
Eugen Böhringer & Hermann Socher · Mercedes-Benz 220 SE

Donald and Erle Morley claimed victory in their Austin-Healey 3000, handling the punishing alpine terrain with confidence and consistency. Their performance set the standard in what would become one of the most coveted rally wins of the season.

Navigation & Challenges

  • High Altitude: Engines lost performance and brakes risked overheating under constant elevation change.
  • Weather Variability: Alpine microclimates brought sudden fog, rain, and even snow in midsummer.
  • Driver Fatigue: Minimal rest and hundreds of hairpin turns required unwavering focus and teamwork.

The 1961 Alpine Rally embodied the raw essence of European endurance racing — where only the most balanced combination of car, crew, and courage could rise to the top.

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