Mad Mike's Insane Quad Rotor Mazda Claims Record At Pikes Peak (video)

In the wide world of motorsport, Mad Mike Whiddett has carved a name for himself with a career full of sideways rotor-fueled activities all over the world. Made Mike has once again shown off his skills behind the wheel — this time, claiming a record at the Pikes Peak International Raceway in a twin-turbo four rotor Mazda 3. 

Dubbed "BULLET", the Mazda3 makes a ridiculous 1000kw at the rear treads and packs an impressive aero package to help navigate the 156-turn mountain course. The Kiwi placed fifth in the Exhibition class and 21st overall with a best time of 10 minutes at 34.980 seconds, becoming the fastest rotary powered car to ever send it up the mountain.

“Behind the scenes, I’ve done so much study since this project came about. A huge inspiration of mine is the Millens, Rod Millen, the fastest Mazda up this hill, the fastest time in a Mazda, and a rotary of 11 minutes 51” says Whiddett.

“I haven’t had nerves like this since I flipped a dirt bike onto the dirt with no foam pad or anything like that. But this is way, way higher. You’re sitting on the line at 5 o’clock in the morning and are surrounded by snow and ice and off to shoot 140mph with the best of the best.”

The BULLET Mazda 3 was built by the team that looks after Mad Mike's Formula Drift FD RX7, TCP-Magic in Japan. The quad rotor is boosted by a pair of Garrett G40-1150 turbos paired up with a Hollinger sequential gearbox. It sits on a set of Rays Volk 21C wheels wrapped in Toyo slick tyres and makes a ridiculous noise going up the mountain. 

It's a pretty impressive bit of gear, and is now formally the fastest rotary powered car up the mountain. If you're a fan of Mad Mike, or simply love Pikes Peak, be sure to check out all the behind the scenes action from this record breaking run below.