Classic 4WD (Pre-1996) — Turbo Era Icons | NZ Silver Fern Rally

Classic 4WD (Pre-1996) — Turbo Era Icons

Audi, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Toyota — the early 4WD legends on seven days of flowing New Zealand gravel. Balanced regs, big stages, pure theatre. Forced-induction cars run a 36 mm restrictor to keep racing close.

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Classic pre-96 4WD rally car attacking a gravel stage at the Silver Fern Rally

What defines Classic 4WD?

  • Pre-1996 4WD platforms from the golden era (no late WRC fire-breathers).
  • FI restrictor: Turbo/supercharged cars require a 36 mm inlet restrictor.
  • Same marathon route and special stages as Historic/Challenge fields.
  • Balanced regs that reward tidy pace, preservation and teamwork.

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Safety requirements (summary)

  • Certified roll cage to current standard.
  • FIA homologated seats & harnesses (in date).
  • Fire-retardant suit, underwear/balaclava, gloves & boots.
  • Handheld extinguisher, 2× safety triangles, first-aid kit.
  • RallySafe wiring kit, tow rope, window breaker/belt cutter.

Full details will be published in the Event Regulations.

Why competitors love Classic 4WD

  • Iconic machinery with grip, noise and spectacle.
  • Big stage kilometres; value per corner is off the charts.
  • Close competition thanks to intake parity and smart regs.
  • A true marathon — manage tyres, brakes, diffs and the week.

Who it’s for

  • Drivers with classic 4WD builds seeking a week-long international-scale challenge.
  • Fans of the early turbo-era looking for fair, exciting competition.
  • Crews that enjoy the rhythm of long stages and smart car management.

A typical day

Early start → briefings & road book → morning special stages → service & lunch → afternoon stages → car wash/prep → debrief and plan tomorrow.

Classic 4WD in fast flowing section Pre-96 4WD cutting through gravel corner Elevation change and grip on NZ gravel

Historic Competition

Period-correct classics (A–D classes). The headline field that crowns the overall winner.

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Challenge Trophy (Modern 2WD)

Same epic route in modern 2WD — a cost-effective entry to marathon rallying.

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Silver Fern Time-Trial

Average-speed precision on closed roads with a 130 kph cap. Huge seat time.

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Bring your pre-’96 4WD — we’ll help with the rest.

Send your Expression of Interest and we’ll guide you on eligibility, restrictors, safety gear and logistics.

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