History 1990s

1992 Rally New Zealand (New Zealand)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1992 Rally New Zealand (New Zealand)

Date: June 25–28, 1992

Start Location: Auckland, New Zealand

Finish Location: Auckland, New Zealand

Total Distance: 519.00 km of special stages

Surface: Gravel

The 1992 Rally New Zealand delivered fast and flowing gravel action through some of the world’s smoothest rally roads. With high-speed crests, cambered corners, and minimal margin for error, the event rewarded rhythm and precision. Carlos Sainz and Luis Moya were flawless in execution, using the Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185’s AWD grip and stability to full effect. Their smooth and assertive drive outpaced the field, marking Sainz’s second consecutive win of the season and tightening the title race considerably.

Route

Whangarei Region: Fast, flowing roads with natural camber—encouraged aggressive cornering and rewarded bravery.
Rotorua and Tokoroa Loops: Tight forest paths combined with wide, open hills—demanded varied driving styles and quick adaptability.
Maramarua Forest: Slippery when damp with narrow ruts and fast crests—called for perfect pacenote reading and throttle modulation.

The North Island’s iconic rally terrain featured long gravel tests through lush forests and hilly countryside:

Weather remained cool and dry, offering excellent visibility and a consistent racing surface—ideal conditions for Sainz’s smooth style.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
Carlos Sainz & Luis Moya · Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185
2nd Place
Juha Kankkunen & Juha Piironen · Lancia Delta HF Integrale
3rd Place
Ari Vatanen & Bruno Berglund · Subaru Legacy RS

Sainz’s win in New Zealand was a masterclass in clean, efficient rallying—he kept momentum high and errors to a minimum on roads that punished overconfidence.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Pace Management: Rally New Zealand rewarded maintaining flow—slowing too much in corners lost vital tenths over long distances.
  • Corner Exit Speed: With long straights after bends, clean exits were key—Sainz’s car control was particularly sharp in this aspect.
  • Consistency: No single stage was decisive—this was a rally of cumulative perfection, and Sainz delivered exactly that.

The 1992 Rally New Zealand stood out as a technical rallyist’s paradise—Sainz’s dominant yet measured victory further solidified his status as a master of the smooth and fast.

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