Think back to the golden era of rallying, a time when motorsport was truly untamed. That era was Group B. It fostered cars that were incredibly fast but notoriously fragile for road use. Now, a specialist service is ensuring that these road-going legends can finally stretch their legs. UK firm Tolman Engineering Group B recommissioning service is expanding its focus. They are enabling enthusiasts to experience these legendary machines as intended. These are not merely static collectables, but dynamic, capable road cars.
The Complex Legacy of Group B Specials
The Group B regulations, active from 1982 to 1986, allowed manufacturers huge freedom. This led to incredible competition cars, requiring only 200 road-going versions for homologation. Manufacturers like Lancia, Ford, and Peugeot created these monsters. They focused intensely on weight reduction and pure competition performance. Consequently, refinement and reliability often became secondary concerns. When the class was banned in 1986, many road cars were stripped for parts. Lack of OEM support left remaining examples with few parts. This left owners nervous about driving their rare vehicles.
Recommissioning Group B Road Cars
Tolman Engineering is building on its successful modern classic enhancement program. They are now focusing intently on these road derivatives of Group B homologation specials. Earlier this year, they successfully recommissioned a 1,200-mile Ford RS200. This project proved their dedication to the platform. They have since completed a comprehensive Peugeot 205 T16 restoration. That stunning vehicle will be showcased publicly very soon. A Renault 5 Turbo 2 is next in line to receive the firm’s specialised care. This expanded service ensures these amazing cars stay on the road.
Enhancing Performance with New Components
One of the greatest challenges for owners is the scarcity of replacement parts. Tolman Engineering Group B program addresses this by developing new parts. The focus is on increasing reliability and driving pleasure. They want the road experience to mirror the expected thrills of the race cars. For the Peugeot 205 T16, they created bespoke cambelt timing kits and pulley kits. They also engineered custom front anti-roll bar bushes. CNC-formed coolant pipes ensure maximum reliability.
Upgrades for Driveability and Reliability
Tolman is also using contemporary engineering to solve old problems. For instance, they performed an ECU upgrade for the Ford RS200. This specialist service is available for any fuel-injected Group B model. It specifically improves reliability and general driveability. They managed to rebuild the Peugeot 205 T16’s transmission in-house. They even sourced original factory, new, old stock ratios through their deep network. Tolman also works with approved suppliers to restore parts. They can source correct new items, such as the period-specific Michelin TRX tires.
The Power Behind Group B Legends
The heart of these legends is their potent, often turbocharged, rally-derived engines. The Ford RS200’s unit, for example, could produce several hundred horsepower even in road trim. The Peugeot 205 T16 used a mid-mounted turbo engine for balanced performance. These cars were designed for outright speed and aggressive handling. They featured complex all-wheel-drive or mid-engine layouts. The extreme power delivery demands focused mechanical attention from specialists like Tolman.
Confidence to Get Out and Drive
Chris Tolman, the company founder, notes a crucial point. Not driving a valuable car can actually cause more maintenance issues. Rubber seals and belts naturally deteriorate over time, becoming unsafe. The original rare motorsport parts often exceed their service life. When these cars are properly sorted, the driving experience is highly rewarding. Chris Tolman wants owners to enjoy these cars as they were truly meant to be. They should be thrilling, engaging, and alive.
Tolman’s technical knowledge is attracting many other motorsport enthusiasts. They have taken on a Group A Mitsubishi Lancer and a historic MGB rally car. The firm can apply its expertise to nearly any model. Their work significantly improves the car’s reliability and performance. Knowing your car is expertly sorted transforms your enthusiasm to simply get out and use it.
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Source: Tolman Engineering
