What Are The Best Hill Climb Vehicles?

Hill climbs are unique race events in which cars compete for the fastest time while fighting gravity up a challenging uphill track. Famous examples include Pikes Peak, Shelsley Walsh and Trento Bondone.

It takes a special type of driving skills to take on these races, but also a special type of car. Just what are the best suited vehicles for these types of events? In this post, we’ll explore a few models that dominate these races and excel at steep inclines.

What makes a good hill climb car?

Some of the top choices for hill climbs are cars that balance power, precision and grip. You need a car with strong acceleration to claw its way up those sharp gradients – a high power-to-weight ratio helps. Downforce and aerodynamics help to keep the car planted at high speed, while responsive steering allows quick handling around corners. A good engine cooling system also prevents cars from overheating while running at high revs.

The best hill climb vehicles

Volkswagen ID. R

Electric vehicles often have an advantage over combustion cars due to their instant torque and lack of gear changing. Leading the pack of hill climbing EVs is the Volkswagen ID R, which currently holds the record at Pike’s Peak and Goodwood. It’s a purpose-built all-wheel drive aerodynamic beast that is often considered the best hill climber.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is one of the best choices for tarmac races uphill. Its high-revving naturally aspirated engine, razor-sharp PDX gearbox and rear engine traction allow it to explosively launch from corner to corner. The car also has track-focused suspension and massive brakes, which allow it to handle tight bends and brake sharply.

Ford F-150

While hill climbs are typically dominated by low slung vehicles, bigger vehicles have occasionally won major hill climb events. Ford F-150 models are a prime example – the likes of the F-150 Lighting SuperTruck has previously held titles at Pike’s Peak. Those living in hilly regions looking for a pickup should definitely consider this car. Models come in four-wheel or rear-wheel layouts.

Ariel Atom 4

The Ariel Atom 4 is a record holder at various UK hill climbs. This minimalist open-frame vehicle was designed as a ‘road-legal’ track car – it weighs next to nothing and has a turbocharged engine, allowing it to pack an outrageous amount of acceleration. Its compact size also makes it easy to whip around tight corners while maintaining precise control. It’s not a vehicle you’ll want to take grocery shopping, but it is the perfect hill climber for thrillseekers.

Subaru WRX STI

This rally-bred car is a popular choice for gravel and mixed surface hill climbs. Multiple successive records have been set by the Subaru WRX STI at Mt Washington Hill Climb. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system gives it impressive traction, while its turbocharged flat-four engine provides plenty of power for zipping out of corners. Its chassis is also tuned for challenging surfaces, keeping the car stable on more rocky uphill sections where other cars might falter.