Michèle Mouton, Dragon Slayer – Belfast 1985

Here’s Michèle Mouton with her fire-breathing Audi quattro in Belfast, 1985.

That’s it… that’s the blog.

More?.. Oh, OK…

The 1985 British Midland Ulster Rally – round 4 of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship and round 5 of the Shell Oils British Open Rally Championship – was a two day blast around Northern Ireland. As usual for these times, the race was dominated by Opel Manta 400s – five out of the top seven finishers, including winners Russell Brookes & Mike Broad.

So, what of Michèle and her Ingolstadt Monster?

Irish rally fans knew that you had to get up early to see the quattros – before the Irish tarmac broke them – and so it quickly proved for the number 1 ‘Audi Sport UK’ Audi quattro Sport E2. Turbo on this occasion, rather than gearbox or differential. But not before this 13-year-old got to see Michèle & Fabrizia Pons growl, pop & bang their way down Great Victoria Street. Fever! as a great man would’ve said.

Here be dragons!

Racing Daydreams

Colin Johnston is a complex case investigator who brings his professional skills to bear, together with his 40 years of study, in his role as motorsport historian and storyteller. Whether it is writing on this website & elsewhere, fact-checking & identifying historical events, curating social media, appearing on TV & podcasts, or acting as a consultant or advisor; Colin strives to share his experience & knowledge in the spirit of good-humour and generosity

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