The Golden Age of Rally

Only serious rally fans can say who won the WRC drivers’ championship in 2017 or what was the livery of WRC Fords in 2010. There was however an era everyone remembers. White and green Alitalia branding on the Lancia Stratos or Martini stripes on the Delta HF Integrale are deep in the hearts of almost every petrolhead.

But knowing the legendary machines and events only from photos and videos is not enough. Seeing them in person is a whole different level of experience. There is now a great chance to do it. Most of the biggest rally legends from 1960 to 1990 are now exhibited in the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile in Turin. It’s easier to point which cars are missing than which are presented.

 I won’t even try to mention all the cars. From the Mini Cooper S and Ford Cortina Lotus from 1966, through Lancia Fulvia and Alpine A110 up to the pinnacle of Group B: The Lancia Delta S4. A few versions of Delta HF Integrale and Celica GT-4 represent the beginning of the new, safer and modern rallying era after the ban of crazy Group B monsters.

 My huge respect goes to the organizers not only for gathering such an amazing collection but also for the presentation. The beautiful backgrounds and elegant lighting show the machines in the best possible way… if stationary presentation is the only option.

 The exposition is open to the beginning of May. I highly recommend visiting it. It’s also a great excuse to visit Turin which offers many more interesting automotive attractions.