Auto Racing: Vroom at the Top

In the U.S., racing up hills is limited almost exclusively to an occasional run up Pikes Peak. But in Europe, drivers have literally made a profession of getting to the top. Hill climbs attract as many as 150 entrants and 70,000 spectators. The cars are sleek, road-hugging sports cars, only slightly less hot than grand-prix cars. In fact, many Europeans argue that hill climbs are more exciting and more demanding than grand-prix racing. Explains Germany's Porsche-piloting Gerhard Mitter, 29, this season's leading driver: "It's not like a flat race, where you have time to warm up. You have to...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!