Rise and fall of Group B: the most extreme rally class ever
Rally History Group B
The Group B rally class was introduced in 1982 to increase competition in rallying and encourage manufacturers to develop innovative and powerful rally cars. The cars in this class were lightweight, fast and featured all-wheel drive and turbocharged engines that could produce power outputs of up to 600 hp. Due to several serious accidents, the FIA decided to end the class in 1986.
Iconic cars
Despite its short existence, Group B has left a lasting impression on rallying. The rally class is still considered one of the most iconic rally classes ever. Group B – called Groep B in normal Dutch – was a legendary class in rallying that operated between 1982 and 1986. The rally class produced some memorable cars, just think of the Audi Quattro, Ford RS200, Lancia Delta S4, Peugeot 205 T16 and the MG Metro 6R4.
Blood fast
These cars were known for their powerful engines, advanced AWD systems and striking designs. There were almost no restrictions on the cars. However, there was an obligation to sell at least 200 production models homologated for public roads.
Fatalities
The Group B rally cars proved to be far too fast in the end. With regularity, violent accidents occurred and drivers were in serious danger. There were several fatalities, including spectators. The 1986 Rally of Corsica was the low point. There was a serious crash involving a Lancia Delta S4 of the rally duo Toivonen/Cresto. Both men perished in a blaze. This terrible accident happened exactly one year after Attilio Bettega was killed when he crashed his car into a tree. Group B can thus be seen as the golden age of rallying with a black edge. Because of its great danger, the rally class was abolished after the 1986 season.