RT3
The RALT RT3 features naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine from Alfa Romeo, Toyota, or Volkswagen producing 165 horsepower (123 kW) utilizing fuel injection with air restrictor controlling output through Hewland five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel-drive achieving 455-kilogram (1003-pound) dry weight delivering exceptional power-to-weight ratio characteristic of Formula Three competition. The ground-effect single-seater incorporates reinforced aluminum monocoque chassis construction, inboard suspension front and rear, extensive ground-effect aerodynamics with wing-shaped floors and large sidepods generating significant downforce, ventilated disc brakes, and sophisticated suspension geometry optimized for late-1970s through mid-1980s Formula Three technical regulations before ground-effect ban implementation 1985.
RT3 launched 1979 represents RALT manufacturer Ron Tauranac evolution of Formula Three championship-winning lineage achieving dominant status through continuous development 1979-1985 with 168 units produced winning multiple national and European championships including Ayrton Senna 1983 British Formula Three title and Pierluigi Martini European Formula Three championship demonstrating platform excellence providing crucial development pathway for future Formula One stars competing against March and Reynard constructors with proven reliability, sophisticated ground-effect aerodynamics maximizing mechanical grip, and comprehensive customer support creating benchmark single-seater establishing RALT reputation as premier Formula Three constructor during golden era of junior formula competition before regulatory changes eliminated ground-effect technology fundamentally altering category technical philosophy.