Mad Mike reveals 1000kW Pikes Peak Mazda3

New Zealand drift superstar Mad Mike Whiddett has revealed the car he will tackle the 2023 Pikes Peak International Hillclimb in – a rear-wheel drive, four-rotor Mazda3.

Whiddett took to the Mazda Fan Fest at Okayama International Circuit in Japan for the launch which joins his bull-themed stable of cars as “BULLET”.

It’ll likely be as fast as a bullet too considering a twin-turbocharged four-rotor engine producing over 1000kW sits under the bonnet.

The list of sheer madness doesn’t stop there as the hatchback has also been converted to rear-wheel drive. From the factory, the Mazda3 is only offered with front- or all-wheel drive powertrains.

Although technical specs are still under wraps, much of the project’s construction and development was undertaken by TCP-Magic Japan who fitted it with KW Suspension, Hollinger gearing, a Radium fuel system, a rear-mounted PWR radiator and more.

The bodywork has been beefed up to house Toyo Proxes race tyres which wrap Rays Volk Racing 21C wheels.

At the rear, a large rear wing towers above the Mazda3 which is sure to provide plenty of downforce when the Kiwi takes to the 4302m Pikes Peak summit road.

Other bodywork additions include a custom front bumper, side skirts, and a rear diffuser.

To top it all off is a signature Mad Mike Red Bull livery, blending yellow, red, white, black and blue together in style.

Whiddett originally planned to contest the car at this year’s Pikes Peak International Hillclimb event but setbacks with the project saw him push the goal back to the 2023 event.

We’re sure more details about the car are to come as well as a New Zealand debut at some point in the future.