12 Old School Rally Cars That Collectors Still Dream About

Before modern electronics took over, old school rally cars relied on grit, balance, and driver control. These vehicles raced across forests, deserts, and icy routes with simple setups and loud engines. Their wins came from durability as much as speed. That spirit still draws attention from fans and collectors alike. Stick around to see what keeps these classic rally cars so memorable.

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1973 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale

Released in 1973, the Lancia Stratos HF Stradale was built to satisfy rally rules and it looks unlike anything else from its time. Current market values often sit around $580,000, with well documented examples selling higher. It used a mid engine layout and a very short wheelbase, which made it quick on tight rally stages. The car became closely tied to 1970s rally wins, giving it lasting appeal. Collectors value it for both its looks and its direct link to competition history.

From a driving perspective, the Stratos feels compact and intense rather than relaxed. Interior space is limited, and visibility can feel unusual, which adds to its character. Many owners treat it as a special use car due to parts costs and specialist upkeep. Originality plays a large role in pricing today. Seeing one in period rally colors explains why it remains so desirable.

1989 Lancia Delta HF Integrale 16V

Introduced in 1989, the Delta HF Integrale 16V refined a rally platform that was already dominant. Market values range widely from about $30,000 to over $250,000 depending on condition and history. It looks like a practical hatchback, yet it carries a serious all wheel drive system underneath. The boxy shape and flared arches reflect its rally purpose. Its reputation is built on repeated championship success.

Many people appreciate how usable it feels compared with rarer homologation cars. Steering feel and turbo response give it a lively personality on uneven roads. Rust and poor past repairs can heavily affect value. Cars with full records and original parts are often preferred. It remains one of the most approachable rally legends to own.

1980 Audi Quattro

The Audi Quattro arrived in 1980 and changed how rally cars handled loose surfaces. Average market values today often sit near $160,000. It is heavier than some rivals, yet traction gives it a confident feel. The wide stance and five cylinder engine sound stand out immediately. It helped establish all wheel drive as the standard in rally racing.

Driving one requires learning the rhythm of turbo lag and throttle timing. Interior materials reflect its era and can show wear over time. Electrical upkeep is important on older examples. Buyers often focus on rust areas and service history. It remains one of the most recognizable rally cars ever made.

1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16

Peugeot released the 205 Turbo 16 in 1984 as a homologation special that shared little with the standard road car. Market values often land around $330,000 today. A mid engine layout and all wheel drive made it competitive on difficult stages. The road version feels closely related to the rally car. Its shape hides how specialized it really is.

From inside, the weight balance feels unusual, with mass behind the driver. Cooling and heat control are important due to tight packaging. Finding correct parts can take time and patience. Many examples are preserved carefully due to rising values. It remains closely linked to the most dramatic rally era.

1983 Renault 5 Turbo 2

The Renault 5 Turbo 2 reached buyers in the early 1980s as a radical rework of a small hatchback. Current market values often sit near $120,000. The mid mounted turbo engine and rear wheel drive layout made it stand out. Wide rear arches give it an aggressive stance. Its reputation comes from both performance and personality.

Driving it can feel playful and lively, especially under boost. Heat management and age related wear need careful attention. Some cars have been heavily modified over time. Well kept examples tend to hold value better. Its compact size and loud character keep it memorable.

1975 Ford Escort RS1800

The Escort RS1800 was released in 1975 and became a major part of Ford rally success. Market values for genuine examples can exceed $340,000. Its simple shape hides a serious competition engine and light chassis. It looks plain at first glance, yet carries deep motorsport roots. Many rally fans grew up watching it win events.

Buyers must separate original cars from replicas and recreations. Authentic paperwork has a strong impact on value. Some cars are restored to high standards, while others show heavy use. The driving experience is raw and direct. It appeals strongly to fans of classic Rear Wheel Drive rally cars.

1986 BMW M3 E30

BMW introduced the E30 M3 in 1986 as a competition-focused road car. Market prices today often average around $85,000, with special versions selling higher. It combines a balanced chassis with a high-revving engine. Box flares and subtle details set it apart visually. Its rally and touring car roles add to its appeal.

On the road, it rewards smooth driving rather than brute force. Rust and engine rebuild quality matter greatly. Many examples have been altered over the years. Well-documented cars usually stand out quickly. It remains a favorite among drivers who enjoy precision and feedback.

1984 Porsche 911 SC RS

Porsche built the 911 SC RS in 1984 as a rally-focused Group B model. Current values can reach around $2,000,000 due to extreme rarity. It looks familiar yet carries many competition-specific details. Weight reduction and rally tuning set it apart from road versions. Its connection to factory motorsport history drives demand.

Very few were produced, making sightings rare. Ownership usually involves careful storage and specialist service. Documentation plays a huge role in value. Most examples appear at high-level auctions or events. It sits among the most exclusive rally cars ever built.

1989 Toyota Celica GT Four ST185

The ST185 Celica GT Four launched in 1989 and became a strong rally performer. Market values often sit near $13,000 for clean examples. Turbo power and all wheel drive define its character. Styling is subtle compared with rivals. It balances performance with everyday usability.

Maintenance is generally manageable with proper care. Buyers watch for turbo wear and cooling issues. Imported cars vary widely in condition. Stock examples tend to be preferred. It offers an accessible entry into classic rally inspired ownership.

1994 Toyota Celica GT Four ST205

Introduced in 1994, the ST205 brought refinements to the GT Four formula. Market prices often average around $18,000. It keeps turbo power and All Wheel Drive while adding comfort. The body looks tougher and more modern. Many fans appreciate its balance of use and performance.

It handles rough pavement well and feels planted. Past tuning can affect reliability and value. Interior materials can show age. Well-maintained cars remain enjoyable today. It suits buyers wanting rally roots without extreme upkeep.

1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi

Subaru released the 22B STi in 1998 as a street car tied closely to rally success. Market values often fall around $210,000. Wide body styling makes it instantly recognizable. Short gearing and turbo power define its feel. It became a symbol of 1990s rally culture.

Finding an unmodified example can be difficult. Service records and import details affect pricing. Rust checks remain important due to age. Many owners treat it as a collection piece. Its reputation continues to grow among enthusiasts.

1999 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Makinen Edition

The Tommi Makinen Edition debuted in 1999 as a tribute to championship success. Current values often sit near $58,000. It features sharper handling and a focused setup. Visual details set it apart from standard versions. Its name carries strong rally meaning.

Ownership is manageable with regular upkeep. Turbo health and rust are common concerns. Modified cars may sell for less. Low mileage examples attract more attention. It remains one of the most respected rally inspired sedans of its time.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.