Tolman Revives Group B Icons Ford RS200 and 205 T16
Tolman Engineering breathes fresh life into the most evocative Group B rally homologation specials, returning them to the road with confidence. The UK specialist has already recommissioned a 1,200-mile Ford RS200 and a Peugeot 205 T16 this year, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy these icons as capable road cars rather than static collectables. You can download high-resolution images here, including Tolman Ford RS200 dynamic.jpg.
Fans still regard Group B as rallying’s golden era. From 1982 until the ban in 1986, flexible rules allowed manufacturers such as Lancia, Ford, Peugeot, MG, and Citroën to create 200 road-going versions of their competition cars. Constructors prioritised performance and low weight under tight schedules, so road manners and reliability often took a back seat. After the 1986 ban, many cars donated their parts to other disciplines, such as ice racing, hillclimbing, and rallycross, or were converted into rally replicas. With little OEM support and scarce motorsport components, owners used their surviving cars less, which only compounded reliability issues. Limited demand deterred the production of new replacement parts.
Building on the Tolman Edition programme for modern classics, Tolman now focuses on revitalising road derivatives of Group B heroes. After completing the RS200, the team finished a Peugeot 205 T16 that will appear at Hagerty’s Club House during Bicester Heritage’s October Scramble on 5th October. A Renault 5 Turbo 2 arrives next, benefiting from the same recommissioning expertise and newly reproduced parts that keep more of these classic rally cars on the road.
Tolman has developed model-specific, upgraded parts to enhance performance, durability, and enjoyment, all while preserving the originality of the vehicle. For the Peugeot 205 T16, the firm created a bespoke cam belt timing and pulley kit, front anti-roll bar bushes, and CNC-formed coolant pipes. For the Ford RS200, Tolman installed an ECU upgrade that enhances reliability and driveability, offering his specialist calibration for any fuel-injected Group B model. Tolman rebuilt the 205 T16 transmission in-house, sourcing original, factory-new, old-stock ratios through its contacts in France, and relied on approved suppliers to refurbish dampers and supply the correct components, such as Michelin 210 5.5 R 390 TRX tyres.
“Even with the best intentions, not exercising a car, especially those increasing in value, can lead to more headaches,” explains Chris Tolman, founder of Tolman Engineering. “Rubber components such as belts, engine or drivetrain seals and fuel lines will deteriorate over time, making them potentially unsafe or unreliable. The scarcity of parts means those that are fitted might be beyond their planned life, so you can’t push the cars to get the most out of what they can offer. When properly sorted, it’s a rewarding driving experience that feels special. Just like our Tolman Editions, we want owners to experience these cars as they were meant to be - thrilling, engaging and alive.”
Tolman’s commitment to non-invasive enhancements and contemporary engineering solutions continues to attract projects beyond Group B. The workshop will welcome a Group A Mitsubishi Lancer and a historic MGB rally car in 2025. “We can apply our knowledge to pretty much any model to dial up the driving experience, reliability and performance. Knowing your car is properly sorted can transform your feelings and enthusiasm to get out and use it,” adds Tolman.
