Ian Harwood Pt.3

Ian Harwood Pt.3

Author: Mark Stone March 12, 2025 Duration: 38:13

In the third instalment of the Ian Harwood interview series on Backseat Driver, Ian and I delve into the most gruelling part of his rally journey: navigating the rugged landscapes of South America in a battered Mark II Cortina.

Ian shares vivid accounts of conquering Argentina’s challenging terrain, crossing the majestic yet perilous Andes, and enduring the unforgiving Atacama Desert.

From intense racing and mechanical setbacks to an unexpected and tense encounter with soldiers, Ian’s tales bring to life the resilience and determination required for such an adventure. The journey culminates in a bittersweet moment as delays force their exclusion from the rally near Lima.

Reflecting on his motorsport career, Ian speaks warmly about the rally community and the remarkable personalities he’s met along the way. This episode is a testament to the grit, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences that make rallying a truly extraordinary pursuit.

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SAS Autos

For over 20 years, Specialised Automotive Services has provided high-quality, affordable automotive maintenance and repairs. Featured in Lancashire Life and a recipient of their Auto Services Award, the company specialises in vintage and classic car restoration, auto electrical work, and general repairs. https://sas-autos.co.uk

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Sponsored by TAROX Brakes Engineered in Italy. Tested on track. Trusted on the street. TAROX performance brake kits deliver progressive feel, zero fade, and serious stopping power — all with show-stopping looks. 🔧 tarox.co.uk – Precision Braking Since 1976.


There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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