Having the chance to drive a standard MR2 alongside my 'modded' one a couple of months ago at the Bedford Aerodrome threw up some interesting comparisons between the two. Whilst Barker figured the cars for the Smart Roadster test (evo 059) around the West Circuit, Bovingdon and I decided to take the two MR2s around the tight North Circuit for our very own little comparison test. Unfortunately we ran out of time to strap on the timing gear so it comes down to feel. The standard car running on Bridgestones (versus my Yokohamas) felt marginally more 'oiled', with better steering feel and a smoother ride. It seemed as though the tyres absorbed the grain in the road before it reached the suspension. I know the lowered springs on my car harm the ride quality and steering feel, but I can't recall it being as good as this on its standard settings.

While there was less lean and a lot more grip, I was surprised to find that my car understeered more readily than the standard one. Changing your driving style a little eradicates this, or you can make it oversteer by turning in on the brakes and powering out of the corners - far more fun. Once sliding it's more difficult to catch and hold than the standard car as it's happening that little bit quicker and the chassis is generally more edgy than the softer suspension set-up. But while 'my' car loses out a tad in driving purity, it streaks ahead when up to speed. With less slack in the springs it changes direction in the esses like you've replaced all the front bodywork with carbonfibre panels. It's the more enjoyable car to be in when you've tired of impersonating Barker or Meaden's sideways antics.

Gripes? We found it was far too easy for the gearlever to go into the lightly sprung reverse plane when trying to snap-change from third to second. On the road the problem doesn't manifest itself because you're not trying as hard. Also, my MR2 can get troubled when the going gets bumpy with a heavy passenger aboard, resulting in the lowered car scraping its bum while the occupants clench theirs. I can live with that, though, as I don't often carry ballast.

With its ground-hugging looks, twin exhausts and lower suspension, my MR2 looks much more purposeful than standard. It's also the more enjoyable drive. And, as I've discovered this month, it can give the Elise a run for its money.