Mr Wilson (66) won the Otago Daily Times-Drivesouth "Rally Ride with Rally Legend Ari Vatanen" competition, and spent five minutes being mashed from side to side in a Ford Escort RS1800, around a winding forestry road near Waihola yesterday.
Despite the Mosgiel resident being a car enthusiast, it was the first time he had been in a rally car. When he stepped out at the end of the ride, his white knuckles and pallid face said it all.
"Wow, that was something else!
"It's a shame to have to go back to work now. I'll be on a high for the rest of the day."
The ride with Vatanen was "the chance of a lifetime", Mr Wilson said.
Rally of Otago spokesman Roger Oakley said those who were having their first ride in a rally car were often sick, not only from the motion but also from fear.
"The cars can reach speeds of up to 130kmh on narrow, winding gravel roads. Most people would drive around here at no more than 50kmh."
He praised Mr Wilson's strong constitution, especially with Vatanen at the wheel.
Once Mr Wilson had staggered out of the flying Finn's car, another joy rider jumped into the passenger seat and sped off in a shower of pebbles, on another lap.
The 58-year-old took several members of the public for rides to promote the Drivesouth Rally of Otago, which begins today.
It is the first round of the Rally of New Zealand championship, and includes the popular International Classic Rally of Otago.
Although officially retired from professional motorsport, Vatanen remains interested in road and traffic safety, and transportation logistics. He also served as a member of the European parliament from 1999 to 2009.
His careers have earned him the 2008 Gregor Grant Award for lifetime achievement in motorsport, and have seen him made a National Officer of the Order of Merit (France) and given a State Order of Merits (Ukraine).
