Best classic rally cars for historic events

The Fiat 131 Abarth Rally transformed an ordinary family saloon into a three-time WRC champion, winning in 1977, 1978, and 1980. Its tough, uncompromising looks and proven success continue to thrill crowds in historic events.

The Lancia Delta Integrale is a true rally legend, dominating the late 1980s and early 1990s with six consecutive WRC constructors' championships. Its aggressive looks and formidable performance make it a perennial favorite for historic events.

A true Group B monster, the Peugeot 205 T16 is considered one of the most successful WRC rally cars in percentage terms of wins. Its mid-mounted turbocharged engine delivered incredible performance, making it a legend of its era.

The Mark I Escort quickly became one of the most successful rally cars of its era, dominating in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It remains very popular among rallying fans for its distinct sound and RWD specification, making for exciting action in historic motorsport.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution cemented its legacy with Tommi Mäkinen's four straight driver titles, rivaling the Impreza through the 1990s and 2000s. Its raw rally soul keeps it alive in the hearts of enthusiasts and in grassroots rally events.

The Subaru Impreza became a dominant force and the face of the WRC in the 1990s, known for its balance, reliability, and adaptability. It remains a popular choice for modern rally muscle with airborne attitude in historic events.

The squarer-styled Mark II Escort continued its predecessor's rallying prowess, becoming a cult classic with over 20 WRC victories. It is highly favored by historic rally enthusiasts for its rear-wheel-drive, lightweight nature, and fun-to-drive characteristics.

This homologation special was designed for Group A of the World Rally Championship, proving to be a solid performer with 10 WRC rally wins. Examples with documented rally history are highly collectible and eligible for historic events as they turn 30.

The Lancia Stratos was the first car designed exclusively for rallying, boasting a unique wedge shape and a powerful Ferrari V6. It was virtually unbeatable on tarmac in its prime, making it highly sought after for historic tarmac rallies.

The Audi Quattro revolutionized rallying with its successful implementation of all-wheel-drive technology and a distinctive five-cylinder turbo engine. Its legacy continues to be celebrated in historic motorsport, with its unmistakable soundtrack still echoing at events.

The Mini Cooper S, the ultimate underdog, achieved landmark victories in the 1960s, dominating rallying and racing despite its small size. It continues to embarrass larger, more powerful cars in motorsports competition and is a celebration of heritage in historic rallying.

While more famous as a track racer, the Porsche 911 has a long and successful history in rallying, including victories in the Monte Carlo Rally and a 4WD version that won the Paris-Dakar. Its enduring appeal and rally heritage make it a strong contender for historic events.

The Opel Manta 400 was Opel's last great standalone rally car, developed on the cusp of the Group B era. It is considered one of the most underrated road-going rally machines, offering a powerful rear-wheel-drive experience.

The Sunbeam Lotus was a pragmatic solution for a competitive rally car, dramatically transforming a compact hatchback with a powerful Lotus 2.2-litre twin-cam engine. Its rear-wheel-drive setup offers an exciting and engaging experience for historic rallying.