Martin Roberts brings to the Live Rally Stage one of the earliest and purest evolutions of Audi’s rally revolution: the Group 4 Audi Quattro. Before the full Group B monsters arrived, Audi homologated the Quattro under Group 4 regulations — making this early version the car that stunned the rallying world with permanent four‑wheel drive and turbocharged power long before its rivals had caught up.

This early‑specification Quattro, driven with commitment by Roberts, captures the raw, mechanical character of the first-generation cars. With its iconic box‑arched stance, period‑correct auxiliary lighting, and unmistakable five‑cylinder soundtrack, it represents the moment rallying stepped into a new era.

Overview of the Early Group 4 Audi Quattro

The Group 4 Quattro was Audi’s first competitive step into world rallying. Key features include:

• A 2.1‑litre turbocharged inline‑5 producing around 300 bhp in early trim

• Permanent four‑wheel drive — a groundbreaking innovation at the time

• Steel monocoque with early‑spec suspension and braking systems

• The first four‑wheel‑drive car to win a WRC event, reshaping the sport’s future

The early Group 4 Quattro remains a landmark in rally history. Martin Roberts’ example showcases the origins of Audi’s dominance — raw, pioneering, and unmistakably ahead of its time.