History 1980s

1981 1000 Lakes Rally (Finland)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1981 1000 Lakes Rally

Date: August 28–30, 1981

Host Country: Finland

Surface: Gravel

Total Distance: 453.09 km (competitive)

Total Starters: Approx. 90 crews

Total Finishers: 45 crews

The 1981 1000 Lakes Rally was a high-speed spectacle set among Finland’s forests and lake-filled countryside. Known for its fast gravel roads, sweeping curves, and famous jumps, it’s a true test of bravery and flow. Local hero Ari Vatanen, partnered with David Richards, delivered a jaw-dropping performance in his Ford Escort RS1800 MkII, winning his home rally with unmatched pace and precision. The victory strengthened his push for the championship in a season-defining moment.

Route

Ouninpohja: High-speed stage packed with jumps and cambered corners—flat-out commitment required.
Lankamaa: Smooth-flowing gravel with tree-lined edges and narrow bridges.
Ruuhimäki: Featured major jumps at full throttle—used as a showcase stage for spectators.

Centered around Jyväskylä, the route featured Finland’s signature rollercoaster gravel roads with limited margin for error, blind crests, and technical jumps demanding absolute precision.

Dry and fast conditions favored those with confidence and the ability to read the terrain through recce notes and mid-air stability control.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Ari Vatanen & David Richards · Ford Escort RS1800 MkII
2nd Place
Hannu Mikkola & Arne Hertz · Audi Quattro
3rd Place
Stig Blomqvist & Björn Cederberg · Saab 99 Turbo

Vatanen was untouchable, using his local knowledge and fearless commitment to edge out Mikkola’s more powerful Quattro on pure rhythm and agility. Blomqvist, always a snow and gravel expert, held strong to claim third in the boosted Saab.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Jump Management: Many stages required careful throttle modulation to avoid launching too far or nose-diving on landing.
  • Pace Consistency: Winning Finland demanded pushing flat out for nearly every kilometer—any hesitation cost vital seconds.
  • Driver Memory: Familiarity with crests, corners, and braking points was critical—local drivers had an advantage.

Vatanen’s win at the 1981 1000 Lakes Rally was a masterclass in controlled aggression. With the Finnish forests echoing his speed, he captured the hearts of his home fans and added another rallying jewel to the Escort’s crown.

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