History 1980s

1980 Motogard Rally of New Zealand (New Zealand)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1980 Motogard Rally of New Zealand

Date: September 13–17, 1980

Host Country: New Zealand

Surface: Gravel / Asphalt

Total Distance: 1,034.00 km (competitive)

Total Starters: Approx. 75 crews

Total Finishers: 29 crews

The 1980 Motogard Rally of New Zealand delivered a mix of fast flowing gravel, coastal asphalt, and lush green countryside, offering both spectacular scenery and technical challenge. Timo Salonen, partnered with Seppo Harjanne, combined consistency and speed to take top honors in their Datsun 160J, executing one of the season’s most balanced and efficient drives across shifting weather and road conditions.

Route

Whangamata & Tokoroa: Fast, cambered gravel roads with frequent crests and minimal margin for error.
Rotorua Loops: Tighter forest stages with slick surfaces and heavy foliage—especially challenging when damp.
Coastal Sections: Occasional tarmac legs offered variety and demanded brake preservation and tire management.

Based primarily on New Zealand’s North Island, the rally snaked through Waikato, Rotorua, and Bay of Plenty regions, with well-graded gravel roads and tarmac connectors winding through dense forest and along the coastline.

Rainfall throughout the event created unpredictable grip levels, adding another layer of difficulty as road surfaces switched rapidly from dry dust to slick mud or damp asphalt.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Timo Salonen & Seppo Harjanne · Datsun 160J
2nd Place
Hannu Mikkola & Arne Hertz · Ford Escort RS1800
3rd Place
Malcolm Stewart & Rob McKenzie · Mazda RX-3

Salonen’s composed style and expert throttle modulation across changing terrain helped him outlast Mikkola, who faced minor mechanical issues and pressure from strong local entries. It was a significant win for Datsun’s consistency-focused campaign.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Variable Grip: Rapid weather shifts meant tire strategy and surface reading were vital—especially on slick downhill corners.
  • Long Days: Lengthy stages and minimal daylight in some regions tested driver concentration and lighting systems.
  • Remote Sections: Some stages were far from service zones, requiring durability and smart self-preservation choices by crews.

The 1980 Motogard Rally of New Zealand highlighted Salonen’s quiet dominance and tactical intelligence—his win on unfamiliar ground emphasized Datsun’s durability and his growing reputation as a world-class contender.

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