Formula 3 is often the final rung on the ladder for the best drivers to become Grand Prix stars. The cars are similar technology, but on a smaller, cost controlled scale to Formula 1. The chassis are made of space age carbon fibre rather than metal and they have “wings” and 'slick tyres' for high speed grip.

 

The origins of modern Formula 3 date back to 1964, when the category was born from the need to provide a cost-effective feeder system into Formula 1.

 

Virtually every Grand Prix champion has competed in this class including legendary names such as Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Jackie Stewart, Nicki Lauda, James Hunt, Alan Jones, Nelson Piquet, Alain Prost, Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Ayrton Senna. It has launched the careers of most of the current F1 drivers including Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard, Rubens Barrichello, Jenson Button and Australia's Mark Webber.

 

 

Race tuned engines produce almost 3 times normal power, restricted by a limited air intake to keep costs under control.