Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special '98

aspiration

TC (Turbocharger)

Group

Gr.X

Displacement

2,493 cc

DriveTrain

4WD

Height

1,510 mm

Length

5,050 mm

Weight

800 kg

Width

1,900 mm

Max Power

981 BHP / 8,000 rpm

Max Torque

95.0 kgfm / 6,500 rpm

Performance Point

PP 793.58

Manufacturer

Suzuki

Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special '98: The Legendary Hill Climb Monster

The Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special '98 stands as one of the most iconic and revered racing machines in both real-world motorsport and virtual racing culture. Developed specifically for the arduous and treacherous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as ‘The Race to the Clouds,’ this remarkable vehicle represents the pinnacle of Suzuki’s engineering and competitive spirit during the late 1990s. With its aggressive aerodynamic design, lightweight frame, and monstrous twin-turbocharged 2.5-liter V6 engine producing upwards of 981 horsepower, the Escudo was purpose-built to conquer the thin air and winding switchbacks of the Colorado mountain course.

Behind the wheel of the Suzuki Escudo Pikes Peak Special, legendary driver Nobuhiro ‘Monster’ Tajima set multiple records and cemented both his and Suzuki’s place in hill climb history. The car's all-wheel-drive system and dramatic rear wing helped it claw for grip on the loose gravel and tarmac, while bespoke suspension ensured stability over the precarious cliffs. Tajima piloted the Escudo to numerous victories and podium finishes in the late 1990s, continuously evolving the machine to meet the ever-increasing demands of Pikes Peak. The car achieved widespread fame for its outright speed, occasionally clocking breathtaking acceleration figures from 0 to 100 km/h in less than three seconds.

In addition to its real-world achievements, the Escudo Pikes Peak Special ‘98 has achieved legendary status within the Gran Turismo video game series, particularly among fans of Gran Turismo 2 and subsequent titles. Within the game, the Escudo is celebrated for its unparalleled power, remarkable handling, and distinctive, almost mythical presence as the ultimate performance car in players’ virtual garages. Its significance goes beyond mere stats— it represents the triumph of innovation, determination, and the relentless pursuit of speed.

Today, the Suzuki V6 Escudo Pikes Peak Special '98 remains an enduring symbol of Suzuki’s adventurous spirit and engineering excellence. Revered by collectors, motorsports enthusiasts, and gamers alike, this car encapsulates the legends and lore of fearless hill climb racers and their machines.