LESS THAN A YEAR AFTER THE LAUNCH OF THE AEON GT³ Coupe, Aeon Sportscars displayed the GT³ Aero at the Donington show in 2004. The three-seater takes on an extra sense of purpose with the roof removed and a small aeroscreen installed. And, just as with the Coupe, you can opt for a conventional two-seat layout if you prefer.

The chassis is entirely unchanged from that of the GT³ Coupe – there was no requirement to strengthen it for the roof chop – and the proven suspension (which has been tested on MIRA’s durability rig) remains exactly the same too, which means you get double wishbones and adjustable coil-over dampers all-round. Engine options remain wide, too. Almost any engine/transmission configuration from a front-wheel drive donor can be fitted in standard form. Popular options include the Ford Zetec/Duratec, Toyota 4AGE and Audi 1.8-litre Turbo engines. The mid-engined format adds to the ease and affordability of this process.

The truly great thing about the GT³, though, is its central driving position. It’s totally natural to become accustomed to (much more so than left-hand drive) and offers a race car experience on the road. Factor in the Aeon’s sweet handling and well-judged controls and you have an addictive driving machine.