History 1970s

1972 Rallye del Salvaje (Argentina)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1972 Rallye del Salvaje

Date: August 1972

Host Country: Argentina

Surface: Gravel

Total Distance: N/A

Total Starters: 54 crews

Total Finishers: 21 crews

The 1972 Rallye del Salvaje introduced international crews to South America’s harshest gravel conditions. Set in the mountainous and arid interior of Argentina, the rally pushed man and machine through deep dust, washboard roads, and technical climbs. It was a landmark event that highlighted Peugeot’s durability and the strength of its Franco driver-co-driver pairing.

Route

High Plains: Long, fast sections where suspension travel and dust management were crucial for pace and visibility.
Sierra Trails: Narrow, winding ascents on gravel and rock with exposed edges and frequent sharp turns.
Rural Settlements: Sudden transitions into small towns with uneven roads and makeshift timing zones.

The rally navigated the provinces of Córdoba and San Luis, passing through canyons, plains, and rocky foothills at speed, with minimal margin for mechanical weakness.

Hot, dry conditions added to the strain on engines and brakes, making consistent pacing just as important as outright speed.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Jean-Pierre Nicolas & Jean Todt · Peugeot 504
2nd Place
Jorge Recalde & Héctor Luis Pérez · IKA-Renault Torino
3rd Place
Francisco Mayorga & Carlos Menditeguy · Ford Falcon

Nicolas and Todt outlasted the South American field with a blend of efficiency, patience, and the rugged reliability of the Peugeot 504—delivering a valuable international victory in new terrain.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Altitude and Heat: Engine tuning and brake cooling were tested over long climbs and in high ambient temperatures.
  • Dust Management: Fine Argentine gravel hung in the air for minutes, requiring increased spacing and co-driver focus.
  • Road Surface Degradation: Repeated passes chewed up the gravel, forming ruts and hidden hazards by mid-day stages.

The 1972 Rallye del Salvaje was a statement of endurance and adaptability, where Nicolas and Todt’s calculated approach earned them an unforgettable South American triumph.

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