Few words will cause the pulse rate of an automobile enthusiast to skyrocket quite as quickly as “Group B.” Established by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in 1982, Group B regulation ushered in what is commonly known as the golden era of rallying by paving the way for some of the most powerful and sophisticated rally cars ever produced. Unfortunately, a series of accidents (which were largely attributed to sheer speed) caused the FIA to disestablish the Group B class in 1986.
Extremely limited in terms of both units produced and years of production, Group B cars are something truly special in the world of vehicle collectors. When Sotheby’s brought just two Group B rally cars to the auction block this May, it caused quite a stir. Well, that’s nothing when compared to the treasure trove that available for the taking at the 20th annual Quail Lodge Auction in Monterey, California.
On Friday, August 18, the Quail Lodge Auction will present not two but seven street legal versions of Group B rally cars. There’s a pair of mid-engine 1986 Ford RS2000s, a beautiful wedge-shaped 1975 Stratos HF Stradale, a rear wheel-driven 1983 Lancia 037 Stradale, an all-wheel drive 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1, a twin-charged and sinister-looking black 1985 Lancia Delta S4 Stradale, and a 1985 Peugeot 205 with less than 700 miles on it.