Formula 3
Formula 3 cars are purpose-built, thoroughbred racers. Powered by finely-tuned two-litre engines, they are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 260 km/h. They look somewhat like a Formula 1 car, but slightly smaller. The very competitive nature of Formula 3 extends beyond the drivers to the teams and on to the equipment.
Chassis
Chassis are built from strong yet light-weight composite materials. Constructors including Dallara, Lola and Ralt design and test their cars using the latest techniques. The main body is fabricated from carbon-kevlar, with additional pieces made from Nomex and aluminum, while the outer bodywork of the cars is generally carbon-fibre bonded with a Nomex honeycomb.
Motors
Engines are based on production blocks, but pack a big punch thanks to the wizards that prepare them for competition. Even though the motors are forced to draw air through a tiny 24 mm restrictor, they are able to generate more than 210 hp. Engines from manufacturers like Honda, Opel and Renault are race-prepared by engine builders Mugen, Spiess and Sodemo.
British Formula 3 Championship
Now in its 38th season, the British Formula 3 Championship is regarded as the final step to Formula 1. Organized and promoted by the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), the 2003 series includes 24 races in 12 stops at an incredible array of top-notch circuits, including Donington Park, Brands Hatch, Silverstone and Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps.
Graduates of the British Formula 3 Championship include Formula 1 stars Mika Hakkinen, Gunnar Nilsson, Derek Warwick, Nelson Piquet, Jenson Button, Martin Brundle, Johnny Herbert, Rubens Barrichello, David Coulthard, Ayrton Senna, Sir Jackie Stewart and many others. |