Skip to main content

In Search of the Four-Wheeled Legend

The Beginning of the Quest for the Car and the Rally

It’s been a few years since I first heard about the Mongol Rally. If you don’t know what it is yet, get ready to discover one of the most challenging and iconic automotive adventures in the world. This epic rally starts in Europe and heads all the way to Mongolia—though some editions finish in the exotic Ulan Ude, Russia.

The concept of the Mongol Rally is magical. Imagine crossing dozens of countries, diving into different cultures, and tackling challenging terrains while driving a car that barely inspires confidence. For me, it’s the perfect definition of adventure. And you know what’s even cooler? The routes are completely open! Each participant chooses their own path (or misadventure, depending on their adventurous spirit).

Rules? Sure, but not really...

There are a few basic rules to ensure chaos and fun. The car must have an engine no larger than 1 liter. In special cases, it can go up to 1.3, depending on the model. Additionally, the rally is entirely self-supported: where to sleep, what to eat, and how to cross borders—it’s all up to you. In other words, you either adapt or quit halfway.

Is it ridiculous? Absolutely. And that’s precisely why it suits me. The idea of driving like a madman, facing the unexpected, and exploring unimaginable places appeals to me in an inexplicable way. I’d love to go in 2025, but with the astronomical costs, the time required (about 30 to 40 days), the risks of regional conflicts, language barriers, and all the paperwork, I’ve decided to plan for 2027 instead.

The First Step: Choosing the Car

Unfortunately, none of the cars I currently own fit the rules. So, the solution is obvious: I need to buy another car. And I’ve already made my choice—a 2013 Fiat Uno. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the humble Uno, that hero of Brazilian streets, will be my partner in this crazy adventure.

Now, the hunt begins. I’m officially on the lookout for a 2013 Fiat Uno with low mileage (less than 50,000 km). I need it ready to begin preparations and tackle this insane journey. Let the games begin!

Curious about the Mongol Rally? Check out the link and dive into the madness: https://www.theadventurists.com/guides/mongol-rally/

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

From Goiânia to Uruguay in a 1969 Dodge Charger – Part 3: Espírito Santo

Time to pack our bags and leave Ouro Preto towards Vitória, ES. Bazolli had warned me that the road was in bad shape, full of potholes. Let me tell you: the road wasn’t that bad; it was actually quite decent. Of course, there were a few potholes here and there, but nothing a Dodge Charger with tank-like suspension couldn’t handle. What really makes this stretch exhausting is the long line of trucks and the complete lack of overtaking points. Add to that a desert-like heat, and there you have it: the perfect recipe for a tiring journey. Honestly, this road between Belo Horizonte and Vitória has deserved a dual carriageway for at least 20 years. The Charger’s highway range is just over 300 km. That means I stop to refuel every 200 km. The upside? I get to stretch my legs and avoid the dreaded fuel starvation since, in Brazil, there are practically no stretches without gas stations for more than 100 km – unless you're trying to cross the Amazon. We arrived in Vitória, wher...
Post a Comment
Read more

From Goiânia to Uruguay in a 1969 Dodge Charger – Part 2: Minas Gerais

With our feet on the road, we headed towards Minas Gerais, our first neighboring state. The first stop was in Patos de Minas. The sun was determined to roast us alive, but we arrived in the late afternoon, still toasted but in one piece. My parents, who were driving the Mustang, left Goiânia a little after us, but we ended up meeting at the hotel at the end of the day – the Mustang must have air conditioning, right? Smart move. In Patos de Minas, I reunited with my uncles. I swear it was a coincidence. There was dinner, conversation, and, of course, some quality gossip. The next day, we set out to explore the city and search for a pamonha as good as the ones made in Goiás. The Dodge Starts Acting Up Here began the first mechanical issue of the trip: the Dodge's starter motor had a strong personality, working whenever it felt like it. Some electrical issue between the switch and the starter motor. But I discovered that, with a screwdriver and a bit of desperation, I could ...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Gourmetization of Car Washing

One thing that every car enthusiast does is wash their car. Whether it's at home, a friend's place, or a car wash, it's almost a mandatory ritual. During my teenage years, washing a car was simple: a hose, any random detergent, a bucket, and a cloth or sponge. If someone was particularly meticulous, they might add a coat of wax at the end, followed by the classic "tire shine." That was the pinnacle of automotive luxury. I admit that I still follow this recipe today. However, with more cars in the garage than time to pamper them, I rarely have the energy for wax or that beloved tire shine. The basics suffice — and barely at that! But then came modern times, and with them, the gourmetization of car washing. Pressure washers, shampoos with formulas more complex than salon cosmetics, microfiber cloths, liquid waxes, sprays that promise to restore the soul’s shine to your car. And, of course, the so-called detailing . To me, this term sounds like a hobby for some...
Post a Comment
Read more