History 1970s

1979 Rally Costa Smeralda (Italy)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1979 Rally Costa Smeralda

Date: April 4–6, 1979

Host Country: Italy

Surface: Gravel

Total Distance: ~750 km

Total Starters: Approx. 60 crews

Total Finishers: N/A

Set against the dramatic landscape of Sardinia’s northeastern coast, the 1979 Rally Costa Smeralda delivered a tough mix of loose gravel, jagged rock edges, and sudden elevation changes. Antonio Fassina and Mauro Mannini utilized the powerful Lancia Stratos HF’s agility and traction to conquer the rough terrain and take home a confident victory in this gravel showcase of Italian rallying talent.

Route

Gallura Hills: Narrow, winding trails with loose stones and frequent blind crests.
Coastal Sections: Open, fast gravel stretches lined with shrubbery and steep drops toward the sea.
Mountain Loops: Technical uphill climbs and sharp descents that tested traction and engine response.

The rally was based around Olbia and the Gallura region, where winding mountain tracks and coastal dirt roads delivered a fast but technical challenge.

Sunny, dry spring weather kept the stages dusty, with visibility issues for following cars and loose surfaces that punished even small driving errors.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Antonio Fassina & Mauro Mannini · Lancia Stratos HF
2nd Place
Adartico Vudafieri & Luigi Pirollo · Fiat 131 Abarth
3rd Place
Tonino Tognana & Massimo De Antoni · Opel Ascona B

Fassina’s smooth driving and Mannini’s clean navigation made the difference, as the Stratos handled the abrasive terrain and relentless pace with ease.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Loose Gravel: Unstable surfaces forced drivers to stay light on throttle and aggressive with weight transfer.
  • Rocky Outcrops: Tight lines were often punished by stones and ruts capable of damaging tires or suspension.
  • Visibility: Hanging dust created hazards for closely spaced competitors—clean air often determined pace.

The 1979 Rally Costa Smeralda proved a punishing yet rewarding event—Fassina’s control and the Stratos’ raw talent dominated the Sardinian gravel in dramatic fashion.

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