Rally History Archive

Spain’s rally ambassador in the 1980s, Zanini dominated the European scene and paved the way for future Iberian stars.

Fearless and flamboyant, Vatanen captivated fans with his daring pace and dramatic comebacks.

The inaugural World Rally Champion, Waldegård extended his career into the 1980s with gritty endurance and veteran skill.

A dominant force in the European Rally Championship, Tabaton defined Italian rallying success throughout the 1980s.

A cornerstone of rally’s golden era, Mikkola’s career bridged classic RWD and groundbreaking AWD dominance.

A prodigy of speed and potential, Toivonen became a Group B icon before his tragic death reshaped the sport.

Mazda’s Scandinavian spearhead, Carlsson quietly became a top performer during rallying’s transition from Group B to Group A.

A tarmac magician and fan favorite, Ragnotti thrilled crowds in the 1980s with sideways flair and Renault power.

A seasoned competitor and tactician, Nicolas transitioned from a winning driver to an influential figure during the 1980s.

America’s most successful rally driver of the 1980s, Buffum dominated North American stages and brought international respect to U.S. rallying.

A master of adaptation and control, Kankkunen won four world titles across three different manufacturers.

A steady presence in German and European rally circles, Fritzinger contributed to the sport’s grassroots growth during the 1980s.

A dependable British driver and future team boss, Wilson balanced competition and car development throughout the 1980s.

One of rallying’s fiercest competitors, Alén’s passion and power made him a defining force of the Group B era.

A pioneer in motorsport, Mouton shattered expectations and nearly claimed a world title during rallying’s wildest decade.

A Safari Rally specialist from Kenya, Kirkland became a trusted driver for Japanese manufacturers during Africa’s most brutal events.

Italy’s rally king of the late '80s, Biasion blended speed, style, and precision on his way to back-to-back titles.

A gravel specialist and late bloomer, Airikkala was a consistent threat in the British and world rally scenes throughout the 1980s.

A specialist of Scandinavian surfaces and technical stages, Eklund was a privateer icon who remained competitive into the Group B era.

A fan favorite and British rally icon, Brookes brought style, speed, and sponsorship savvy to the 1980s rally scene.

Kenya’s rally hero and Safari Rally master, Mehta dominated Africa’s toughest event in the early 1980s.

A master of snow and ice, Blomqvist brought Scandinavian precision to global dominance in the Group B era.

Laid-back yet lightning fast, Salonen’s relaxed demeanor belied his ruthless speed in the Group B era.

One of Britain’s most versatile talents, Pond played a key role in developing and competing with iconic 1980s rally machinery.

German precision embodied, Röhrl won two World Championships with unmatched adaptability.