Lada, Skoda, Daihatsu …
The almost indomitable Group B mid-engine rally guns were well known in the 1980s, but more modest equipment has also been homologated. Here are a few homologation specials that you wouldn’t immediately think of.
Citroën Visa II Chrono (1982)
To boost the image of the Visa, Citroën became the first in 1982 with a car that complied with Group B regulations. In France, all marketing around this car is aimed at women. You could also buy the Visa Chromo in the Netherlands.
Fiat Rhythm Abarth 125TC (1982)
Fiat only supplies the Ritmo Abarth in a three-door version, while Seat homologates the closely related Ritmo Crono 100 T with a five-door body. In both cases, few pots are broken from a sporting point of view.
Mercedes-Benz 500 SLC (1982)
In 1980, Mercedes has grand rally plans, behind the scenes a new project is being worked on, but it will never see the light of day. Thus the old, large heavy SLC is homologated. Before you never know.
Lada 2105 VFTS (1982)
Lada’s rally weapon was able to cough up 160 hp, twice as much as the standard Lada 1600. And without turbos. With its simple technique, this car was very easy to repair.
Peugeot 504 Pickup (1982)
Closely related to the 504 Coupé, the 504 Pickup is homologated by Peugeot with the use in African rallies in mind, where taking obstacles is often more important than sheer speed.
Daihatsu Charade 926 Turbo (1985)
Daihatsu is collaborating with DeTomaso for the development of the Charade 926 Turbo. With its 926 cc measuring turbo engine, the cart managed to achieve a class victory in 1985 during the Safari Rally.
Skoda 130 LR (1985)
Two Weber carburetors, a modified cylinder head, all the classic tuning techniques are used to turn the 130 LR into a rally weapon, and with success: it often finishes in the top ten among the big guns.