Introduction
If you’re one of those people who enjoys speed games and Top 10 Best Rally Cars, you’ve probably heard of rally cars.
The thrill and excitement of watching these games are so immense that people worldwide consider rally sports among the most popular, driven by the exhilaration of speed and competition with high-performance cars.
Do you love speed and excitement? Are you keen on road games and always eager to learn more about this sport or discover the best rally cars?
If your answer is yes, then we have good news for you. In this article, we aim to introduce and explore various types of rally cars, highlighting the best models across different eras and categories.
Best Rally Cars of All Time
It is best to first say that most car racing enthusiasts have their own favorite drivers or teams, and all of them believe that the participants in these races have special skills and a competitive mindset.
The first rally was held in 1887. At the time, a French cyclist organized the first car race, but a man named Count Albert de Dion was the only one to attend the race and was recognized as the winner.
In 1894, a Parisian newspaper, Le Petit Journal, known for creating competitions to generate profit, designed and launched the Paris-Rouen competition, the first event to feature multiple participants. They managed to convince over 100 drivers to pay an entry fee of 10 francs, but on race day, only 26 showed up. After the preliminary rounds, 5 drivers were disqualified, leaving 21 to compete.
Here are some of the best rally cars throughout the history of rally racing:
1G85 Audi Sport Quattro S1
Audi introduced its new and improved version of the Quattro S1 sports car at the 1000 Lakes Rally in August 1385, and it is safe to say that the car’s technical specifications were ahead of their time. The Audi Sport Quattro S1 featured an upgraded 2.1-liter engine, bringing its power to 470 hp. However, the actual output was believed to be over 500 hp, as the turbocharger was supplemented with a rotating air system that greatly reduced turbo lag.
Its advanced engine, combined with weight reduction and modified aerodynamics, allowed it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds.
In some rally competitions, specific examples of the Audi Sport Quattro S1 were equipped with a trial version of the automatic dual-clutch gearbox. As a result, what is commonly known today as the DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) or PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) originated from this model of rally car.
Audi introduced its new and improved version of the Ǫuattro S1 sports car at the 1000 Lakes Rally:
- Engine: 2.1-liter Inline-5
- Power: 540 horsepower
- Torque: 435 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 3.1 seconds
- Famous drivers: Michele Mouton, Walter Röhrl, Hannu Mikkola
1G86 Ford RS200 Evolution
This car model was the world’s fastest accelerator for many years, a record that was documented in the Guinness Book of Records. This unique, compact car didn’t seem like it was built on American soil. The reason is that the RS200 rally car was a special and extraordinary homologation model designed and built by Ford of Great Britain. It was specifically designed as Ford’s first four-wheel-drive competitor for the Group B rally.
Only 24 Evolution models were produced to stay ahead of the competition. These included a special 2.1-liter BTD-E engine equipped with a massive turbocharger, delivering 580 hp.
This four-wheeled monster was the “fastest accelerator in the world,” and with Stig Blomqvist behind the wheel, an RS200 Evo set a Guinness World Record of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.07 seconds.
- Engine: 2.1-liter Inline-4
- Power: 580 horsepower
- Torque: 400 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 3.0 seconds
- Famous driver: Stig Blomqvist
1GG7 Subaru Impreza S3 WRC
Subaru Impreza S3 WRC and Colin McRae are two names that became legendary in the world of rally racing.
The car was one of the best during the rally era and was created as a replacement for the Impreza 555, specifically for the 1997 season, which coincided with the FIA’s revision of rules and formats for the new stage of the World Rally Car race.
- Engine: 2.0-liter Boxer-4
- Power: 310 horsepower
- Torque: 367 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 5.0 seconds
- Famous driver: Colin McRae
1GG7 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV reflects four years of Lancer development. This rapid advancement was necessary for Mitsubishi to stay ahead of its rivals.
- Engine: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Power: 280 horsepower
- Torque: 369 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 5.5 seconds
- Famous driver: Tommi Mäkinen
1G75 Ford Escort RS1800
Most people probably don’t know as much about Ford’s presence in rally racing as they do about other car companies. The Ford Escort represented the American automaker’s first real attack on the rally scene and was arguably the most successful. Starting with the Ford Escort RS1600, the car eventually evolved into the RS1800 and enjoyed significant dominance in competitions throughout the 1970s.
The Ford Escort RS1800 was powered by a 1.8-liter engine with Cosworth BDE natural aspiration, paired with a five-speed ZF transmission and special suspension. Compared to the road version, the chassis was heavily reinforced, and it featured wider wheel arches, easily distinguishing it from conventional cars.
- Engine: 1.8-liter Inline-4
- Power: 115 horsepower
- Torque: 126 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 8.2 seconds
- Famous drivers: Hannu Mikkola, Ari Vatanen, Björn Waldegård
1G76 Fiat 131 Abarth
The Fiat 131 Abarth has incorporated the best elements of rally history into its iconic profile. This model, a rather ordinary economy car, became a giant killer and a rally hero almost overnight.
In 137C, Fiat produced 400 road-going versions of the 131 Abarth for homologation purposes and immediately began competing in the World Rally Championship. The car went on to win the championship three times in four years (1977, 1978, and 1980).
- Engine: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Power: 140 horsepower
- Torque: 130 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 7.8 seconds
- Famous drivers: Markku Alen, Walter Röhrl
1G85 Peugeot 205 T16
In the early 1980s, rally cars had very different speeds compared to today’s models. The Peugeot 205 T16 was among the best cars that emerged under the new rules. A new category called Group B rally was created in 1983 to allow car manufacturers to showcase their engineering prowess with fewer restrictions on design specifications.
- Engine: 1.8-liter Inline-4
- Power: 460 horsepower
- Torque: 361 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 4.5 seconds
- Famous drivers: Ari Vatanen, Timo Salonen, Juha Kankkunen
1GGG Ford Focus WRC MK1
This car is the first version of the Focus model used by the Ford factory team in WRC rally events, making its debut in Monte Carlo in 1333. Before the launch of the Focus WRC MK1, Ford had been content with its previous achievements. However, it decided to dedicate all its efforts to the rally track for this season. By allocating
significant capital to the project, Ford was able to recruit top drivers such as Colin McRae and Carlos Sainz.
- Engine: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Power: 300 horsepower
- Torque: 406 foot-pounds
- 0-C0 mph: 4.2 seconds
- Famous drivers: Colin McRae, Carlos Sainz, Simon Jean-Joseph
2007 Citroën C4 WRC
The Citroën C4 WRC was one of the main attractions at the 200C Paris Motor Show before its first appearance at the 2007 World Rally Championship. The C4 replaced the Xsara WRC, which competed between 2003 and 2005.
The Citroën Sport engineers turned the Citroën C4 concept car into the reality of the Citroën C4 WRC rally car.
Famous drivers: Sébastien Loeb, Dani Sordo, Sébastien Ogier
Engine: 2.0-liter Inline-4
Power: 315 horsepower
Torque: 419 foot-pounds
0-C0 mph: 4.0 seconds
Other top rally cars that have remained iconic throughout the years include:
- Peugeot 405 T16 GR Pikes Peak 1G88
- MG Metro 6R4 1G85
- Suzuki Escudo Pikes Peak 1GG6
- Morris Mini Cooper S Works Rally 1G64
- Renault Alpine A110 1G71
- Porsche G5G Rally 1G84
Best Rally Cars of 2024
For 2024, in addition to the well-known companies in the automotive industry, we are likely to see the emergence of new vehicles trying to win the hearts of enthusiasts. Established companies and brands might also showcase new models or update their cars from last year.
Some of the drivers preparing for 2024 include:
- Esapekka Lappi
- Dani Sordo
- Ott Tänak
- Andreas Mikkelsen
- Thierry Neuville
- Grégoire Munster
- Adrien Fourmaux
- Sébastien Ogier. Team: Toyota Racing
- And more…
Two of the Best Rally Cars of 2024:
BMW X3 CC Rally Car (2024 Model)
This is a luxury car, with its groundwork laid in 2003 and launched in 2010. The rally car features a long-wheelbase and is one of the strong competitors of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Ǫ5, and Lexus NX. Under the hood, it has a 3.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine producing 315 horsepower and 51C pound-feet of torque. It also comes with a C-speed sequential Sadev transmission that delivers power to a Sadev central differential for balanced power distribution. The car is equipped with 1C-inch BBS rims and large Michelin Latitude C tires designed for off-road conditions.
- Engine power: 315 horsepower
- Number of gears: 6-speed
- Torque: 516 foot-pounds
Ford Puma Rally1 rally car in 2024
The Ford Puma Rally1, a highly appreciated rally car built by the Ford M-Sport World Rally Team, was used at the 2022 World Rally Championship. The car is based on the Ford Puma crossover road car version, and will now enter the battlefield with dramatic changes to replace the Ford Fiesta WRC, which competed between 2017 and 2021, and will now enter the 2024 tournament.
The technical specifications of this rally car, one of the best cars of 2024, are as follows: Ford 1.6-liter EcoBoost, turbocharged, gasoline, inline-four cylinder.
Maximum power: 380 horsepower Maximum torque: 420 Nm
Engine restrictor: 36 mm Four-cylinder EcoBoost
It is paired with a 134-horsepower EV motor for a combined output of approximately 500 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
Best Rally Cars Under $10,000
Not all rally cars with impressive technical specifications and high-quality designs come with a hefty price tag. Automotive companies often offer these luxury cars at more affordable prices to reach a broader audience and showcase their engineering prowess.
Some standout examples of rally cars priced under $10,000 that are both technically exceptional and excellent include:
- City K-ZE
- Known in Europe as the Dacia Spring (2021 model)
- 26.8 kWh lithium-ion battery
- 44-horsepower electric motor
- 125 Nm of torque
- Fast charging capability: 50 minutes from 0 to 80%
- Estimated range: 271 km on a full charge
· Maple Leaf X3 Pro
- Curb weight: 1157 to 1190 kg, depending on trim
- Ground clearance: 185 mm
- 1.5-liter engine
- Naturally aspirated four-cylinder
- 113 horsepower
- 143 Nm of torque
- Average fuel consumption: approximately 6.9 liters per 100 km
· Geely Azcara
- Hybrid car with front and rear drive axles
- 1.5-liter gasoline engine
- Three-cylinder TGDi turbocharged engine
- 190 horsepower
- 7-speed automatic transmission
- 300 Nm of torque
- I-AWD power transmission system
- Average combined fuel consumption: 6 liters per 100 km
- Four driving modes affecting fuel consumption, engine performance, and suspension
Best Group B Rally Cars
Group B rally racing is known for its excitement and intensity, with a huge following demonstrating the thrill and adrenaline of watching these powerful cars in action.
· Audi Sport Quattro A1/A2
- Legendary and transformative rally cars
- Engine: 2.1-liter turbocharged inline-five
- Power: 350 horsepower
- Weight: 2645 pounds
· Citroën BX 4TC Evolution
- Citroën adapted its existing BX model into a rally-ready car due to limited resources for a full Group B development
- Engine: 2.1-liter turbocharged inline-four
- Power: 380 horsepower
- Weight: 2535 pounds
· Ferrari 288 GTO
- Upgraded for Group B competition
- Modified tubular chassis
- Lightweight carbon fiber body
- Engine: 4.0-liter V8
- Power: 650 horsepower
- Weight: 2560 pounds
· Ford RS200
- Redesigned after winning the Rally Championship in 1979
- Engine: 2.1-liter turbocharged inline-four
- Power: 600 horsepower
- Weight: 2601 pounds
Best Rally Cars for Beginners
This section introduces the best rally cars suited for beginners. If you are just starting out, these cars offer a great introduction to rally racing.
· Subaru NA Chassis / GC
- Less expensive and simpler to maintain compared to turbocharged models
· Subaru BRZ/FRS/GT86
- Known for rear-wheel drive and excellent chassis dynamics
· BMW E30/E36
- Great rear-drive chassis dynamics, simple to work with
· Volvo 240/740
- Durable and straightforward, ideal for beginners
· Volkswagen Golf
- Simple and robust, easy to handle and enjoyable for training
· Ford Focus
- Affordable and compact, good for learning driving techniques
· Honda Civic/Fit
- Reliable and budget-friendly
· Ford Fiesta
- Durable and easy to drive, popular among new drivers
· Acura Integra
- Reliable with balanced handling
· Nissan 240sx
- Known for legendary drift capabilities and strong suspension
Best Modern Rally Cars
As major manufacturers compete in rally racing, the industry continues to push the boundaries of speed and performance.
· Toyota GR Yaris
- Originally designed as a simulation car, now a competitive rally vehicle
- Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder
- Standard power output: 268 horsepower
- New Version: Three turbochargers adjusted up to 550 horsepower
Introducing the Toyota GR Corolla Rally Car
It’s fortunate that the WRC regulations changed, leading to the development of the road car GR Yaris. The GR Corolla, with its standard features, offers more torque (2G5 lb-ft), a stiffer body, a shorter gear ratio, and the removal of the rear seat.
- Engine Power: 300 horsepower
- Number of Cylinders: 3 cylinders
- Torque: 400 Nm
Introducing the Porsche G11 Dakar Rally Car
While our focus has been on the World Rally Championship, the Porsche G11 Dakar takes us to another FIA-approved event, the Dakar Rally. The 2023 Porsche G11 Dakar pays tribute to Porsche’s win in the 1G84 Paris-Dakar Rally. The 911, known for its resilience against off-road obstacles, has inspired Porsche to create the Dakar 911, a special edition off-road sports car introduced in 2023.
- Engine Power: 473 horsepower from the GTS model
- Features: Rear axle steering, free-level Launch Control, and rally mode
- Turbochargers: Six twin turbochargers
Introducing the Modern Prodrive P25 Rally Car
The Prodrive P25 is a reimagined Subaru 22B STI. Prodrive announced last year that they would build 25 refurbished 22B units, known as the P25, adhering to the original style but utilizing carbon composites for weight reduction, bringing the vehicle’s weight to 2,645 pounds.
- Engine: Newest 2.5 L engine with re-engineered custom parts and Garrett turbocharger
- Engine Power: 400 horsepower
- Torque: 442 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: 3.5 seconds
- Transmission: Six-speed sequential gearbox with helical-cut gears, active central differential, and limited-slip differentials on both axles
- Price: $700,000
Kimera Automobili EVO37 “Martini 7”
The Kimera Automobili EVO37 “Martini 7” is a remake based on the iconic Lancia 037 rally car. It is one of the most exclusive cars to arrive in the United States, with this specific version named “Martini 7.”
- Engine Power: 550 horsepower
- Engine: 2.1-liter four-cylinder twin-charged
- Weight: 2,425 pounds
Best Rally Cars in Forza Horizon 5
The excitement of rally racing and high-speed experiences has also made its way into the gaming industry. Forza Horizon 5 is renowned for its engaging simulation of racing environments and rally cars, making it a popular choice among gamers worldwide.
Real Rally Cars Simulated in Forza Horizon 5 Nissan Pulsar GTI-R
Though all C-Class vehicles might be somewhat slower, the Nissan Pulsar GTI-R stands out with significantly better speed compared to many of its competitors in the same class.
Mercedes-Benz AMG Hammer Coupe
The AMG Hammer Coupe is notable for its impressive acceleration, reaching 100 mph in just 12 seconds. This performance allows you to dominate races and outpace your opponent’s effectively.
Hoonigan Gymkhana 10 Ford Escort Cosworth Group A
With a remarkable acceleration rating of G.1, this Ford Escort Cosworth Group A model excels in gaining speed quickly and securing a top position early in events. It’s also an excellent choice for navigating dirt roads.
Porsche G11 GT3 RS Forza Edition (Class S1)
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is one of the top options in Forza Horizon 5, but it requires players to first collect all other Porsches as a collection prize. To acquire it, you need to engage in numerous game sessions and use CR to purchase any missed vehicles. Once unlocked, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS offers exceptional drifting capabilities with only minor adjustments needed for rally events.
Maserati 8CTF (Class B)
The Maserati 8CTF is undeniably one of the most “overpowered” options in Forza Horizon 5. It features unique visual effects and outstanding performance.
- SuperSpeed Rating: 6.7 for Class B cars
- Cost: 10 million CR
· Driving Challenges: The car can be difficult and expensive to obtain, and driving
in Mexico’s rough terrain may present challenges.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed this article and found the information about the best rally cars in the world comprehensive and useful. Happy racing!
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