 Aaltonen finished second on six occasions in the Safari Rally, which is considered one of the most difficult courses in rallying.In 1985, he was leading the rally by two hours when his engine broke down before the last few special stages.His other merits include winning the 1000 Lakes Rally in 1961, the RAC Rally in 1965, the Monte Carlo Rally in 1967, the Southern Cross Rally in 1977, and a "Coupe des Alpes" at the Alpine Rally in 1963 and 1964.