History 1960s

1965 Acropolis Rally

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

The 1965 Acropolis Rally maintained its status as one of Europe’s most punishing events, with extreme terrain, blistering heat, and minimal room for recovery. Based out of Athens, it tested not only speed but mechanical endurance, co-driver accuracy, and survival instincts. The rally earned a reputation as a true 'car breaker' among both competitors and manufacturers.

Event Name: 1965 Acropolis Rally

Date: May 23–27, 1965

Start/Finish Location: Athens, Greece

Total Distance: Over 3,000 kilometers

Participating Teams: Over 100 crews

Route

Mount Parnassus: Narrow gravel roads lined with pine trees and steep drop-offs.
Peloponnesian Highlands: Dry, rocky terrain with harsh elevation shifts and heat-reflective surfaces.
Fthiotida and Thessaly: Open plains turned to dustbowls, making grip unpredictable and visibility minimal.

The event wound through central and southern Greece, demanding relentless concentration and resilience:

Dust, dehydration, and broken suspensions were common as the rally wore down both man and machine stage by stage.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Carl-Magnus Skogh & Lennart Berggren · Volvo Amazon 122S
2nd Place
Erik Carlsson & Torsten Åhman · Saab 96 Sport
3rd Place
Rauno Trautmann & Claudine Bouchet · Lancia Flavia

Skogh’s calm control and the Volvo’s toughness secured a hard-fought victory. Carlsson’s Saab endured brutal punishment to take second, while Trautmann’s Lancia proved agile and reliable over the long haul.

Navigation & Challenges

Every kilometer of the Acropolis was a battle—against the elements, the road, and time. Precision and preparation separated finishers from retirees.

  • Extreme Heat: Daytime temperatures soared, threatening cooling systems and driver stamina.
  • Dust Clouds: Visibility plummeted behind other cars, forcing strategic spacing and hazard anticipation.
  • Stage Degradation: Repeated traffic tore apart surface integrity, worsening the route for later starters.
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