Although one-off racecars like Romain Dumas’ Norma MXX RD tend to dominate Pikes Peak, let it be known that the race can still be found returning to its roots of vintage motorsport. When incorporating old-school cars with new-age technology, some teams strike a formula that’s better than most — regardless of the position they end up in. The 2017 race played host to many classics, and thanks to some exceptionally sharp throwbacks, none of the spectators were left disappointed.
Perhaps most noteworthy was the EPS Motorsport Audi Quattro S1E2. Though it didn’t finish as well as the team had intended the 1,000 horsepower screamer stole the attention of everyone when it flew by. As it passed through Glen Cove, the crowd let out a slew of “ooos” and “awwws” that not even the fastest cars could muster.
Its five-cylinder exhaust note was an instant recall back to the days of Walter Rohrl and Michele Mouton, both Audi factory drivers who navigated the course with ease back in its unpaved days of the ’80s.
Following after that was the #167 1973 Porsche 911 RSR. Piloted by Christopher Lennon, the wide-hipped machine wiggled its way to third place in the Pikes Peak Open class. Its twitchy behavior and flat-six exhaust note left everyone remembering the car’s heyday, and with a little bit of magic, it ended up doing exceedingly well for a 44 year old car.
A unique livery complimented the car’s flowing lines, and with the pedal to the floor, the only thing louder than its paint-scheme was its engine.
Another fan-favorite was the #111 “Big Red Camaro”, a ’69 Chevy that thundered up the hill with hatred. Despite a full field of LS-powered cars, this big block heavy-hitter was instantly recognizable from a mile away. It was surrounded by hype for months before the race, and luckily, it featured all the pantomime we could ask for.
It rounded out the top-dogs in terms of yesteryear racers, and with any luck at all, we’ll see it compete again next year.
We’re happy to see cars like this continue to race throughout the years, and as they gain popularity and recognition, they will surely keep up the trend. No matter your favorite make or model, these examples are all sure to make you miss the days when sex was safe and racing was dangerous.