Attempts of our Lada to compete in Group B rallies

Since the 50s, participation in prestigious sports competitions has become an unambiguous recognition of the status of a model, or even the entire brand to which it belongs. The Soviet automobile industry, although it lacked stars from the sky, also tried to keep up with its European colleagues. For example, our “Muscovites” made a real splash on British tours, turning out to be clear leaders in their category. After the giant AvtoVAZ became the leading manufacturer of passenger cars in the USSR, Soviet racing Ladas also hit the tracks. By this time, the Friendship Rally Cup (1967-1989) was already in full swing, in which representatives of the automobile industry of the socialist countries of Europe competed.


But I really wanted to reach a qualitatively new level. Moreover, the “charged” “five” with 1,6-liter forced engines producing up to 150 hp. s (almost 2 times higher than that of serial analogues) looked quite good. In the mid-80s, the most serious preparations were carried out for the participation of representatives of the domestic automobile industry in the legendary Group B of international rallies. A special power unit was also prepared for this occasion. But the times turned out to be not entirely favorable for this venture, and you can see what came out of it in the video from the STANIZLAVSKY channel. I wish you a pleasant viewing to all motorsport fans!