Michèle Mouton got an Alpine A110 in 1974; 11 years later she was fastest woman

In 1974, Michèle Mouton acquired an Alpine A110 under the condition that she could prove herself during the year or return it. She excelled rapidly. Mouton's racing career began as a co-driver for her friend Jean Taibi on the 1972 Tour de Corse. The following year, she took the driver's seat.

At the 1975 24 Hours of Le Mans, Mouton competed as part of an all-female team and won the 2.0-litre class in a Moynet LM75. Despite rallying being considered a male-dominated sport, Mouton continued to dominate.

In 1980, Audi contacted Mouton, inviting her to drive their new Quattro. After overcoming language barriers during a test, she secured a factory drive with Audi for 1981. Mouton found the Quattro a significant improvement over her previous Fiat, learning to adapt to its unique characteristics.

Mouton's breakthrough came in 1981 when she and her co-driver Fabrizia Pons won the Sanremo Rally, marking Mouton as the first woman to win a round of the World Rally Championship. She would go on to win three more races and reach the world title within reach.

In 1982, Mouton faced personal tragedy when her father died, yet she still secured second place in the World Rally Championship. Her second-place finish in Rally GB helped Audi secure the manufacturers' championship.

After 1983, Mouton's WRC opportunities dwindled. However, Audi of America gave her another challenge: the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 1984 and 1985. She won her class both years, setting new records and breaking speed limits, despite engine troubles and additional weight from carrying her co-driver.