History 1980s

1983 Rallye de Portugal – Vinho do Porto (Portugal)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1983 Rallye de Portugal – Vinho do Porto (Portugal)

Date: March 2–8, 1983

Start Location: Estoril, Portugal

Finish Location: Estoril, Portugal

Total Distance: 639 km of special stages

Surface: Gravel and tarmac

The 1983 edition of Rallye de Portugal offered a brutal test of endurance and car strength, as changing weather and a grueling mix of gravel and asphalt roads challenged even the best-prepared teams. With rain-slicked surfaces and rough countryside terrain, drivers had to adapt quickly and preserve their machinery across one of the longest rallies in the WRC calendar.

Route

Arganil: Steep climbs, narrow tracks, and heavy fog—infamous for zero-visibility stages.
Sintra: Coastal mountain asphalt with damp, leafy surfaces.
Mortágua: Fast gravel routes with loose rocks and deep ruts.

The rally snaked through central Portugal, including iconic and rugged regions such as:

With highly variable weather and large crowds lining the roads, Portugal’s rally proved a physical and psychological battle for all competitors.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Walter Röhrl & Christian Geistdörfer · Lancia Rally 037
2nd Place
Hannu Mikkola & Arne Hertz · Audi Quattro
3rd Place
Markku Alén & Ilkka Kivimäki · Lancia Rally 037

Despite fierce competition and worsening road conditions, Röhrl managed tire wear, strategy, and raw speed to secure his second win of the season.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Weather Extremes: Fog, rain, and sun alternated throughout the event, impacting visibility and grip.
  • Long Itinerary: The multi-day format required mechanical endurance and consistent co-driver accuracy.
  • Massive Crowds: Spectator presence on stage edges added both atmosphere and danger.

The 1983 Rallye de Portugal proved a key moment for Lancia’s Group B ambitions, with Röhrl delivering another tactical and composed performance.

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