Turbo Raven, Oracle (15-20cc) 1.60m / 63in

Wayne Handleys Turbo Raven was quite an aeroplane. One of the few aircraft of its time with a thrust-to-weight ratio higher than 1, the all-composite machine was capable of prop-hanging, had a top speed of 300mph and was one of the fastest-climbing propeller driven aircraft ever built. We use the past tense here as sadly, owing to engine failure, the Raven was lost in October 1999, although, luckily, Handley survived.

Seagulls new take on this exceptional machine replaces the marginally smaller 60 version from 2011 which flew beautifully and won many friends. Spanning 63 for 15 to 20cc engines, the build quality, performance and quality of fixtures, fittings and hardware has taken a significant leap ahead and with it the overall value for money. Its a stunning aeroplane, a real eye-catcher, a flightline talking point and a model whose flying characteristics are so locked-in, it makes every sortie look polished and purposeful.