The video discusses the history and myths surrounding Group B rally cars, known for their power and danger. It highlights the Audi Quattro S1 as the most powerful, with up to 600 horsepower, and addresses misconceptions about their speed compared to modern rally cars. The video also touches on the fatal accidents associated with Group B, leading to its ban in 1986, while noting that rallying has always had risks. It concludes by emphasizing improvements in rally safety and encouraging appreciation of both the history and current state of the sport.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Group B rally cars existed from 1982 to 1986.
2. Group B cars were divided into 15 sub-classes depending on weight, engine volume, presence of a turbo, and tire diameter.
3. The Lithuanian Lada VFTS was a Group B car that received international homologation in 1982.
4. The Lada VFTS had a rear-wheel drive and 160-180 horsepower.
5. The 1985 Audi quattro S1 was the most powerful Group B car, producing 550-600 horsepower.
6. The Audi quattro S1 was also one of the heaviest Group B cars.
7. The Lancia Delta S4 had a weight of 900 kilograms and produced up to 550 horsepower.
8. The Peugeot 205 T-16 produced a maximum of 480 horsepower, and the Ford RS200 produced 450 horsepower.
9. Group B cars were banned from the World Championship due to safety concerns.
10. The ban was largely due to the 1986 Rally of Portugal, where a Ford RS200 flew into a crowd of spectators, killing three people and injuring 30.
11. The Group B supercars continued to race in other events, such as cross-country and uphill racing.
12. The Audi quattro won the legendary American Pikes Peak International Hill Climb three times.
13. Michelle Mouton, a Frenchwoman, won several victories behind the wheel of a quattro, casting doubt on the myth that Group B was only for men.
14. Today's WRC cars are faster and safer than the old Group B cars.
15. The level of safety in today's WRC has increased many times over compared to the 80s.
16. The organization of today's WRC has improved, with better spectator control and exclusion of entire roles from the championship.