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Patagonia Wind-Blast Gravel Build

1980 Ford Fairmont

R034

1980 Ford Fairmont — Patagonia Wind-Blast Gravel Build

Media library

10 photos

Story

The 1980 Ford Fairmont Patagonia Wind-Blast Gravel Build transforms a classic American sedan into a purpose-built gravel hill climb contender. This build raises the chassis by 120mm and widens the front and rear axles to accommodate Ultra4-spec beadlock wheels wrapped in chunky 35x12.50 tires, delivering both ground clearance and rugged traction. The bold widebody features riveted trapezoidal arches and exposed aluminum panels, blending durability with a military-inspired aesthetic that emphasizes function and aggressive industrial styling.

Under the hood, enhanced airflow is paramount. The hood extends forward with a central raised scoop and dual vents feeding a front-mounted intercooler and multiple radiator cores, while side intercoolers vent heat efficiently through ducts behind the fenders. Suspension travel is increased by 80mm to maintain composure over rough terrain, and integrated LED rally lights embedded in the widened front fenders add both illumination and a purposeful rally look.

Blueprint

The Whitepaper Room
1980 Ford Fairmont blueprintInspect drawing ↗Open blueprint study →

Collectible Poster

Collector's Edition
1980 Ford Fairmont collectible posterInspect poster ↗

Technical dossier

Fictional engineering concept

Platform

1980 Ford Fairmont

Powertrain concept

Front-engine all-wheel-drive layout retained
Upgraded cooling system with front intercooler and side-mounted intercoolers
High-capacity radiator cores with angled exit ducts for efficient heat dissipation

Aero package

Front bumper with 400mm wide air intakes feeding multiple radiator cores
Raised hood scoop (280x115mm) with vertical chamfered edges directing airflow
Dual forward-facing hood vents for engine bay heat extraction
Rear diffuser integrated skid plate with vertical brake cooling vents

Chassis & stance

1980 Ford Fairmont

Wheels & tires

Method Race 17x10 front and 17x12 rear beadlock wheels
35x12.50 off-road gravel tires for traction and durability
Suspension travel increased by 80mm for rough terrain compliance

Fabrication notes

Composite underlying structure reinforced with riveted aluminum panels
Widened trapezoidal fender arches extended 150mm front
210mm rear
Integrated LED rally lights embedded within front wide fender walls
Extended hood length by 90mm to accommodate raised scoop and air management
Reinforced rear quarter panels with exposed fasteners for rugged durability

Keep exploring

Rally Everything: Vol. 1Continue the exhibitionRally Everything: Vol. 1We grabbed some unlikely champions from different decades and forced them into the brutal world of rally raids where sand, snow, and gravel don’t just punish — they humiliate the unprepared.Build 3 of 6

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