At Clcompany, we are passionate about cars and jeeps. It is exciting to see these classic cars run in rallies, especially if it is a difficult rally like the Dakkar Rally. Yes, we are talking about the Dakar Classic, a class of the Dakar Rally reserved for older cars. It honours the race’s past and lets vintage vehicles compete in a rally-style reminiscent of the first Dakar Rally.
Participants in the Dakkar Classic race old trucks, automobiles, and motorbikes; they frequently concentrate on vehicles utilized in previous Dakar Rally contests. The event usually consists of difficult desert terrain, much like the original Dakar Rally, focusing on vehicle handling, endurance, and navigation.
Over the years, this event has gained prominence, drawing motorsport fans passionate about vintage cars and the Dakar Rally’s past. The Dakkar Classic honours the history of the original event while offering an opportunity to feel the exhilaration of off-road racing.
Source – The Checkered Flag
The Dakkar Classic’s Rise
In 2020, the Dakkar Classic made its debut as a distinct division within the Dakar Rally. With the extra appeal of nostalgia, it was created to provide vintage vehicles, trucks, and motorbikes with an opportunity to participate in the same demanding setting as the contemporary event. It offered a distinctive fusion of racing and history by enabling historic rally cars—many of which were formerly Dakar competitors—to compete through the desert once more.
Vehicles over 25 years old are usually permitted to compete in the Dakkar Classic, and they range widely from vintage 4x4s and rally cars to trucks and motorbikes. These cars have to follow a set of guidelines that permit some changes while preserving the essential elements of their original designs. This guarantees that the occasion will be a celebration of the Dakar Rally’s history and past.
Source – Autocars India
Dakkar Classic 2025
Parallel to the main Dakar Rally, the Dakar Classic 2025 was held in Saudi Arabia from January 3 to January 17, 2025. With 4,033 kilometres against the clock, 94 teams of automobiles, trucks, and motorbikes competed across a total distance of almost 7,246 kilometres in this fifth edition. As competitors faced a variety of terrains and difficult weather, the tournament placed a strong emphasis on regularity and navigation abilities.
The Spanish team of Juan Morera and Lidia Ruba won the overall rankings, followed by fellow countrymen Carlos Santaolalla and Aran Sol I Juanola. The 2025 edition demonstrated the Dakar Rally’s spirit of adventure and the timeless appeal of vintage motorsport.
Source – Blunik
Dakkar Classic Highlight
- Diversity and Participation of Vehicles
To accommodate a wider variety of antique automobiles, trucks, and motorbikes, the 2025 edition allowed vehicles registered up until 2005 to compete. This made it possible for fans of vintage off-road rallies to enter into even greater diversity.
- Difficult Conditions and Terrain
The 7,246 kilometres of the Saudi Arabian desert, which included 4,033 kilometres of unique stages, were traversed by participants in harsh circumstances. With varied terrain ranging from rocky to dunes, the rally put the drivers’ endurance and navigational abilities to the test.
- Spanish Crews Win
Spanish teams dominated the 2025 Dakar Classic, with Juan Morera and Lidia Ruba taking first place overall. Their skill at both navigation and the tactical management of their antique car was evident.
Spain’s supremacy in the event was further cemented when Carlos Santaolalla and Aran Sol I Juanola finished in second place.
- A Greater Focus on the World
The Dakar Classic is becoming more and more well-known among fans of antique cars as well as people who want to experience the unadulterated adventure and historical importance of the first Dakar Rally. The event’s status in motorsport culture was further solidified with the 2025 edition.
- Traditional Rally Spirit
The contest emphasizes the competence needed to operate vintage automobiles across hazardous terrain by emphasizing regularity and navigation above speed. To demonstrate the passion and workmanship that made the early Dakar Rally so memorable, drivers frequently relied on their understanding of traditional rally methods.
- Collaborations and Unique Vehicles
Renowned companies and vintage automobiles, such as Land Rover Defenders, which have become legendary in the off-road racing community, were still featured in the 2025 edition. In a nod to the rally’s inception, vintage vehicles with strong connections to the original Dakar Rally were spotted once more.
Source – Monochrome
Conclusion
In summary, the 2025 Dakar Classic Rally brings together a varied group of competitors who have a profound regard for the heritage of off-road racing and a passion for motorsports, exemplifying the spirit of adventure, endurance, and friendship. The event also serves as a reminder of the Dakar Rally’s lasting appeal as racers traverse the difficult terrain. In addition to putting its drivers’ talents to the test, the Dakar Classic Rally retains the exhilarating spirit of one of the most recognizable racing competitions in the world by emphasizing vintage cars and celebrating heritage.
2025 is expected to provide several thrilling events that honour antique racing and legendary cars if you enjoy vintage rallies. The Endurance Rally of India and the Himalayan Rally are two of the interesting vintage races that will take place in India. These competitions honour vintage automobiles, putting competitors to the test on difficult terrain and highlighting India’s rich history of motorsport.
Fascinated by old Stars. You have reached your destination. At CLcompany we have curated pictures, write-ups, and more about the legendary journey of Cars. If you are looking to share your thoughts on Classic Cars, do check out the writer’s section on the CLcompany website.
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