Fiat's position in the standings was challenged by both Datsun and Ford, but neither could overcome the Italian company's initial lead, settling instead for second and third, respectively. 1980 also saw Mercedes-Benz's best and final effort to compete for a WRC title, placing fourth overall.
The text describes Fiat's dominance in the standings during 1980, with Datsun and Ford attempting to overtake them. Mercedes-Benz made its final attempt at winning a WRC championship that year, placing fourth overall.