Video: Rod Millen Tacoma screams up Pikes Peak

29th July 2024

Ethan Jupp

A lot can happen in 28 years. A lot did happen between 1994 and 2022. Those two years are our reference here specifically because in 2022, Rod Millen returned to Pikes Peak with his insane Toyota Tacoma – that we’ve seen before also at the Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard – some 28 years on from his 1994 debut.

The big change in question? What was once dirt is now paved. But don’t worry, Pikes Peak isn’t short of terrifying challenges, so while the surface is grippier, in this clip visibility is basically nil. Perfect for letting 1,100PS (820kW) off the chain.

Naturally, the clip is absolutely insane. That typical roar and chirp soundtrack that is just pure Tacoma Pikes Peak is almost unmistakable, as Millen threads it from corner to corner, massaging the boost. You quickly realise however the car is most of the time being tickled along the damp course, when Millen fully opens the taps on the long straight, rippling through the gears in the blink of an eye.

It then gets properly out of shape in a braking zone, with Millen only just able to gather it back up. This big brute is a car your brain needs to be up to speed with, evidently…

Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: Flying around Le Mans in the Garage 56 Camero