History 1970s

1978 Rajd Polski (Poland)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1978 Rajd Polski (Poland Rally)

Date: July 6–9, 1978

Host Country: Poland

Surface: Mixed

FIA Cup Status: Round of the 1978 FIA Cup for Drivers

Total Distance: ~2,100 km

Total Starters: Approx. 80 crews

Total Finishers: N/A

One of the oldest rallies in Europe, the 1978 Rajd Polski provided a serious test of endurance and versatility. Held across a broad mix of gravel, tarmac, and forest tracks, the rally challenged crews from all over the continent. Antonio Zanini and Josep Autet brought their Fiat 131 Abarth to victory, handling the diverse conditions with poise and earning valuable points in the FIA Cup for Drivers.

Route

Olsztyn and Mikolajki Areas: Winding forest paths with mixed-surface transitions and limited visibility.
Białystok Loop: High-speed open roads punctuated by tight village crossings and blind corners.
Night Sections: Required total confidence and endurance as fatigue and minimal lighting added to the difficulty.

The route crisscrossed northern and central Poland, with stages ranging from narrow rural tarmac to forest gravel and sandy trails in the Masurian Lakes region.

Warm summer weather kept surfaces dry for the most part, though dust and loose gravel made traction and tire management key to consistent pace.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Antonio Zanini & Josep Autet · Fiat 131 Abarth
2nd Place
Andrzej Koper & Ryszard Żyszkowski · FSO Polonez 2000
3rd Place
Jerzy Landsberg & Wojciech Schramm · Lada VAZ 2103

Zanini’s consistent, mistake-free drive and Autet’s experienced pacenote delivery helped them rise above local specialists on unfamiliar roads—showing the adaptability required for FIA Cup success.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Mixed Conditions: Quick changes from tarmac to gravel required on-the-fly adaptability in driving and braking styles.
  • Dust Visibility: Fast stages produced heavy dust trails, reducing vision and making catching slower crews difficult.
  • Local Knowledge: Regional competitors had an edge on stage familiarity, adding pressure on international entrants.

The 1978 Rajd Polski was a vital win in Zanini’s FIA Cup campaign—demonstrating calm focus and speed on an event where both were essential for success.

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