Round 9 of the 1989 World Rally Championship took place in Finland accompanied by a torrential downpour of rain which added the possibility of aquaplaning to its already notorious reputation for not being one of the more popular rally courses.

Recognised as a cut and thrust affair where results are often decided by seconds rather than minutes, the 1000 Lakes lived up to its reputation as a tough and demanding drive and on top of the treacherous weather conditions caused by the heavy rain, cars were decimated by mechanical failure and driver error over the 1,447 km course.

Not since 1971 had anyone other than a Finn won this rally and the formidable Lancia team which included the talents and durability of men like Miki Biasion were confident and determined that the status quo wouldn't remain intact.

The Finns also intended keeping a wary eye on Didier Auriol, last year's sensation and Carlos Sainz, the Spanish ace might proved to be a threat in his Toyota, however last year's main challenger has had a difficult season where the Celicas all but fell apart at the seams at the Acropolis.

Then there is Mitsubishi.  Could hot rally-ace Mikael Ericsson have a surprise up his sleeve and why did the winner of the Argentina switch from Lancia to the Japanese marque?

There is only one way to find out and don't forget the Videovision crews almost developed webbed feet to capture this cliff-hanger for you!