[1] The race began in Lisbon, Portugal, and passed through Spain, Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Mali, and Senegal.

[3] Note: The timed section of stage 7 was shortened to 407.6 kilometres (253.3 mi) due to adverse weather conditions.

A total of 132 bikes (52.8% of starters), 109 cars (58.3%), and 60 trucks (68.2%) finished the race.

The first was South African motorcyclist Elmer Symons, who was competing in the rally for the first time, on the fourth stage between Er Rachidia and Ouarzazate.

[5] The second death occurred on the 14th and penultimate stage; French motorcyclist Eric Aubijoux was found dead 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from the finish line in Dakar.