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Volvo’s 1986 Australian Touring Car Championship winning livery will be replicated on both of Garry Rogers Motorsport’s S60s at Sandown.
The Melbourne-based outfit has recreated the scheme Kiwi Robbie Francevic’s Volvo 240T used in its triumphant season 30 years ago.
Team owner Rogers has credited sponsor Wilson Security for backing the retro livery concept, which has been adopted by 12 of the field’s 26 cars.
“To be honest I was a little sceptical of the retro round and this was mainly due to the cost and interruption to our business,” said Rogers.
“But, as a result of the enthusiasm of our sponsor group particularly John McMellan from Wilson (Security) and their contribution I was convinced that it was a good idea, I am very pleased that they did convince me because the cars look great.
“I remember clearly Robbie Francevic invading our shores with the Volvo.
“It’s ironic that 30 years later we still have a Kiwi behind the wheel of a Volvo.
“Robbie achieved some remarkable results with the Volvo in 1986 and as much as I am not a superstitious person I pray that the 1986 livery provides us with some success.”
Francevic scored seven podiums on his way to the 1986 title, including three victories and a second place finish at Sandown.
His car was, however, famously withdrawn from the Sandown 500 on the morning of the race after publicly criticising the John Sheppard-run team’s preparation.
GRM has presented its livery complete with period BBS wheel covers which will be removed for the weekend’s competition.
