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BUILT TO RACE FOR THE ROAD
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1992 Audi Quattro
The Quattro wasn’t the first four-wheel-drive production car, but its place in history is assured. While it shares much with the Audi 80 and 200, the 4WD initially used a manual centre diff lock. Such capabilities helped redefine performance cars.
Thanks in no small part to its huge rallying success, the Quattro popularised all-wheel drive, and is now regarded as one of the 1980s’ most influential and important sports cars. This
1987 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth
example is from 1992, and benefits from a Torsen torque-sensing diff and an upgraded engine that measure 2.2 litres and features double overhead camshafts for a peak power figure of 217bhp.
Infamously crafted on a pub napkin after a Ford management tour of Cosworth, the bewinged Sierra was designed with one task in mind – to elevate the Blue Oval to the top of the grid in touring car racing.
That it did, courtesy of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo that in road trim kicked out 204bhp. In race trim, though, it could produce 350bhp, and by the time the RS500 came out, it could soon top 500bhp. Ford would end up dominating races in the British Touring Car Championship and abroad, too, with the likes of Steve Soper, Robb Gravett and Andy Rouse behind the wheel.
1992 Porsche 959 Komfort
In early 1981, Porsche faced a dilemma – what could be done to replace the 911? The 928 hadn’t quite been the success planned, and it lacked the DNA that appealed to Porsche traditionalists.
Newly installed boss Peter Schutz asked his development team to see how far the rear-engined layout could go, utilising four-wheel drive and given free rein to experiment with exotic materials. Group B rules appeared at the right time to help to develop the 959 prototypes, advancing progress via competition.
This car is one of the last eight 959s, four years after main production ceased. Through 2018 and 2019, the car was treated a mechanical overhaul at Porsche Classic in Stuttgart.
2008 Subaru Impreza WRC S12C
This is one of two S12C models built by Prodrive. Its counterpart was returned to S12B spec, making this C unique. Notable differences include the S14 motor and updated suspension geometry, plus numerous additional development components.
Chris Atkinson made his debut with it at the 2008 Monte Carlo Rally, finishing third overall. He also used it in the Swedish, Italian and Jordan WRC rounds. From
2009 onwards, it has claimed multiple victories in several Irish rallies.
In 2014 it was fully restored to its original Monte Carlo specification by TTEC Rally Prep, in collaboration with Prodrive.