Red Bull’s Michael Whiddett, also known as “Mad Mike” took his Mazda RX8 drift car to Goodwood, to complete his first run of many at this year’s Festival of Speed.
The New Zealander drifting expert even managed to interrupt Andrew Jordan’s interview with his spectacular parking skills (see 2nd video), placing his heavily modified RX8 inches away from a stationary Touring Car.
Whiddett’s RX8 is a turbocharged 2004 model with an extraordinary amount of engine mods. It puts its power down with the help of a 6-speed sequential gearbox, a HKS Pro 2 twin-plate clutch, an Autosport Dynamics limited slip diff and custom Driveshaft Shop axles.
The chassis features a custom-built Tein Super Drift/Mono Flex suspension, a FD3S RX-7 steering rack, Megan Racing steering arms & tie-rod ends, MMM steering knuckles, custom tube frame and custom rear sway bars.In terms of wheels, you’re looking at 18″ 8-spoke Nessen Forged models at the front and a 10-spoke design for the ones at the rear.
Inside, there’s a six-point weld-in rollcage, Takata Racing seats, a RacePak digital dash, Autosport Dynamics hydraulic e-braker lever and a custom switch board.
As for looks, the Hybrid Lab wide-body kit gives the RX8 its imposing appearance, as does the BN Sport vented hood. The Seibon carbon fiber doors and trunk lid are there to help reduce weight, while the Sard GT fixed rear wing has an obvious purpose as well.
In the end, it all amounts to 812 HP being put down by the rear wheels and the results are spectacular.