Massa: « The F2008 is reliable where the F2007 was weak »

Felipe Massa is sure that Ferrari has taken a step forward with its F2008, claiming that the new car has improved in areas where the previous one had difficulties.

The extended wheelbase of the F2007 was a hindrance compared to our rival McLaren-Mercedes, so the team decided to shorten it on their 2008 car.

Speaking during a break in testing in Jerez, Spain, Massa stated that his first impressions of the F2008 are more than positive and in line with those at the same time last year with the F2007. Still generally fast in the corners, but a good progression in the slow corners.

« The car is certainly good for me: we have made a step forward, particularly in the slow corners, » said Massa.

« As for fast corners, the car is as good as last year. So I think we have improved the car in slow corners. »

« With this car, it’s a bit easier not to have anti-skid. We had a good impression on the chicanes, so I am happy with the car’s balance. We didn’t have to work that much on the car to get good intermediate times, so that’s positive. »

Despite his optimism about the improvement, Massa believes it is still too early to say with certainty if the car will have no weak points. The verdict on the work done by the team will be real in Australia for the start of the season.

« I think that for now we haven’t seen any weaknesses in the cars. »

« Obviously, we will find improvements to make if we are not ahead during the first race, but for now we are on the right track, » he added.

« So, to date, we are happy but not yet with the content: we still need to work to be even faster in the first race. »