Surely, speed satisfies like nothing else.
I've hit 110MPH in my Summit (sig) while still in 4th gear. It probably over-revved though, not too sure. It can definitely go much faster if you give it the road, time and have the guts to really mash down and not let go.
Concerning your experience:
Me, personally, I NEVER do anything stupid while I have passengers, if there are any other cars around or if my car is not in tip-top shape (IE., bad brakes, low tread, low fuel, bad oil, etc...). The result could be either a FUBAR'd car, or even worse, death.
My mentality: If ANYONE should get hurt or killed because I was being stupid, it better be me and ONLY me.