Grapevine: Biasion enters Dakar with a Panda

The Italian, who took 17 WRC victories and back-to-back titles in 1988 and 1989, lines up with rally-raid veteran Bruno Saby for an assault with a difference.

Their Diesel-powered cars are entered by Team Fiat PanDAKAR, and boast 105 BHP, a 160-litre fuel tank in place of the rear seats, tubular roll bars, modified 5-speed gearbox, reinforced clutch, and Michelin tyres normally used on vans.

With a full tank, three extra tyres, driver and co-driver the cars weigh 1,400 kilograms.

"I know it will be hard, very hard," said Biasion. "We'll have moments when we'll all be really stressed. However, there is the enthusiasm of an entire group. I'm certain the little mouse of the dunes won't disappoint the fans."

Talking about how the decision to compete with Fiat Pandas came about, Biasion said: "While talking with some friends in Fiat, it was suggested to make a raid prototype with a tubular chassis and a body similar to some production models, but it was too expensive.

"Then came the idea of using the Panda, with an assistance truck from my friends at Iveco and Pirelli tyres. The operation was supposed to be called 'the giant and the little girl' but it was postponed by a year.

"Then (Fiat Brand Manager Luca) de Meo and (Fiat CEO Sergio) Marchionne showed interest in it and there was the important arrival in Fiat of my old friend Claudio Berro.

"We moved to doubling the challenge: two Pandas in the rally, and in their diesel version no less. We analysed the two versions, gasoline and diesel, and chose the latter for a matter of weight distribution and fuel economy.

"It will be a great way for Gruppo Fiat to attract the affection of drivers.

"(Bruno) Saby, the other driver, after having tried it for the first time in Tunisia said with a big grin: 'It isn't ridiculous at all!' And he is a champion in the world of raids..."