F1 2012 chat thread

[fourseven]

Red Bull Racing
Engines: Renault

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_822.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_21.jpg

1. Sebastian Vettel
2. Mark Webber

Test and reserve drivers
None


McLaren
Engines: Mercedes

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_6.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_828.jpg

3. Jenson Button
4. Lewis Hamilton

Test and reserve drivers
Gary Paffett


Ferrari
Engines: Ferrari

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_30.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_18.jpg

5. Fernando Alonso
6. Felipe Massa

Test and reserve drivers
Jules Bianchi


Mercedes
Engines: Mercedes

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_7.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_809.jpg

7. Michael Schumacher
8. Nico Rosberg

Test and reserve drivers
None


Lotus
Engines: Renault

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_12.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_838.jpg

9. Kimi Raikkonen
10. Romain Grosjean

Test and reserve drivers
None


Force India
Engines: Mercedes

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_851.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_840.jpg

11. Paul di Resta
12. Nico Hulkenberg

Test and reserve drivers
None


Sauber
Engines: Ferrari

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_837.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_867.jpg

14. Kamui Kobayashi
15. Sergio Perez

Test and reserve drivers
Esteban Gutierrez


Toro Rosso
Engines: Ferrari

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_857.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_870.jpg

16. Daniel Ricciardo
17. Jean-Eric Vergne

Test and reserve drivers
None


Williams
Engines: Renault

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_869.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_845.jpg

18. Pastor Maldonado
19. Bruno Senna

Test and reserve drivers
Valtteri Bottas


Caterham
Engines: Renault

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_813.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_864.jpg

20. Heikki Kovalainen
21. Vitaly Petrov

Test and reserve drivers
None


HRT
Engines: Cosworth

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_26.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_805.jpg

22. Pedro de la Rosa
23. Narain Karthikeyan

Test and reserve drivers
None


Marussia
Engines: Cosworth

http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_791.jpg http://www.formula1.com/photos/teams_and_drivers/driver_index/portrait/portrait_890.jpg

24. Timo Glock
25. Charles Pic

Test and reserve drivers
None

[TJ]

AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX (Melbourne)
16 - 18 Mar

PETRONAS MALAYSIA GRAND PRIX (Kuala Lumpur)
23 - 25 Mar

UBS CHINESE GRAND PRIX (Shanghai)
13 - 15 Apr

GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX (Sakhir)
20 - 22 Apr

GRAN PREMIO DE ESPAÑA SANTANDER 2012 (Catalunya)
11 - 13 May

GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2012 (Monte Carlo)
24 - 27 May

GRAND PRIX DU CANADA 2012 (Montréal)
08 - 10 Jun

GRAND PRIX OF EUROPE (Valencia)
22 - 24 Jun

SANTANDER BRITISH GRAND PRIX (Silverstone)
06 - 08 Jun

GROSSER PREIS SANTANDER VON DEUTSCHLAND 2012 (Hockenheim)
20 - 22 Jul

ENI MAGYAR NAGYDÍJ 2012 (Budapest)
27 - 29 Jul

SHELL BELGIAN GRAND PRIX (Spa-Francorchamps)
31 Aug - 02 Sep

GRAN PREMIO SANTANDER D'ITALIA 2012 (Monza)
07 - 09 Sep

SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX (Singapore)
21 - 23 Sep

JAPANESE GRAND PRIX (Suzuka)
05 - 07 Oct

KOREAN GRAND PRIX (Yeongam)
12 - 14 Oct

AIRTEL INDIAN GRAND PRIX (New Delhi)
26 - 28 Oct

ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX (Yas Marina)
02 - 04 Nov

UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX (Austin)
16 - 18 Nov

GRANDE PRÊMIO DO BRASIL 2012 (São Paulo)
23 - 25 Nov

[fourseven]

Some decent shops to start the thread.

http://i41.tinypic.com/21bw5ms.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2w3dp4w.jpg

Andrew Benson received this Christmas card from Mark Webber. Good sense of humour!

http://i.imgur.com/PVOHf.jpg

[TheChad]

So stoked for ricciardo, difficult position to be in, he really has to shine or risk being overlooked.

I'd like to see Hamilton pull his head in and challenge vettel this year, and defiantly would like to see Ferrari be compedetive. New year, clean slate, each team has a year of data to build on this years designs, plenty of room to challenge RBR!

I much prefer button over halmiton, and hope as #3 he'll be in the best position to take it to them.

[Jazza]

Want to see Hamilton challenge Vettel but want to see Button beat Hamilton? So you want Vettel to finish 3rd? :P
Hope Di Resta keeps coming along and smashes Hulk! Really don't see why he should have that seat over Sutil.

[Stef]

i hope webber does well, vettel does shit, and good on riccardo for getting a spot also!

[TheChad]

Want to see Hamilton challenge Vettel but want to see Button beat Hamilton? So you want Vettel to finish 3rd? :P
Hope Di Resta keeps coming along and smashes Hulk! Really don't see why he should have that seat over Sutil.

No, id rather he finish 6th lol

[zeroyon]

for me it will depend on what car packages the teams come up with next year.

Vettel given a top car again will dominate he is just better then everyone else.

Hamilton is too busy being a super star to win a championship. He might pickup a couple of races but.

Buttons a wild card, he has the skills, if he has the attitude could be a champ contender through consistancy.

I can't wait to see what sort of positions the torro cars can achieve. Would it be too much to hope for a once of podium through a carnage race ??

[Jazza]

It ALWAYS depends on the car, without it you have to be Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso to win just one race! :P

[FranZ]

I wonder whether STR will receive more help from RBR thus making STR stronger!

[TJ]

Only can be done via the technical partnerships ala FI and McLaren.

Each team must design and build its own car.

[jaybee]

Going to be a huge year, looking forward to it.

I am interested to see the designs of the '12 cars now that blown diffusers aren't being used, and also which drivers heavily relied on them and how they will have to adapt early on in the season.

Most of all i am hoping Webs and Ricci have a strong year.

[TJ]

http://motorsport.nextgen-auto.com/gallery/pictures/2011/f1/ferrari-christmas-18dec/005_medium.jpg

Rhetts mates

[Jumanji]

Santa's Little helper Hamilton seems to be missing from that photo

[TJ]

Thats probably because he doesnt driver for Ferrari, and thus isnt at their Christmas party?

[Jazza]

I hate the off season.. :(

[fourseven]

Rosberg ready for the Mercedes Christmas party.

http://p.twimg.com/Ag8UCyaCIAAjduf.jpg

McLaren don't have Christmas parties. Ron Dennis frowns upon fun.

[TJ]

It doesnt align with the plan for success.

[Jumanji]

Thats probably because he doesnt driver for Ferrari, and thus isnt at their Christmas party?

Ah I see it now, lol dont mind me. Retard moment.

[sdwz180]

Not much to do with the 2012 season but I'll put it up anyway.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/smqIA8fTz8M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Jazza]

LOL I love the Webber wtf moments, makes me laugh over and over

[fourseven]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Td1ZxxUubCY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Thanks to TJ.

[Wrexter]

Fucking LOL thats was awesome.

[TJ]

* Thanks Sofarapartguy for this post from SutilorRubens@Williams thread

AntonioMesquida Antonio Mesquida
@f1enigma whats your opinion about Bianchi to Sauber and Kamui to Williams?

@f1enigma
Dimitris PAPADOPOULO
@AntonioMesquida Thats the story I didnt want to say yesterday I know that Ferrari is pushing like hell for that. Thats why Kamui rumor?!
------------------------------------------------------------------------

This will be the best move for all parties involved!

Ferrari will get to evaluate two of their young drivers to replace Massa, if required. Or both Perez & Bianci can continue/extend till 2013.

Kamui can then be in a team with good possibilities, instead of Sauber... who are soon, if not already, a Ferrari Junior team. Nothing more to prosper their for Kamui Kobayashi. He may get to shine even more and impress with Williams for long-term.

Sauber get free drivers + some cash for development from Ferrari. Not a bad position at all, considering Ferrari would definitely be looking for their young drivers to beat RedBull's junior team Torro Rosso. LOL... it'll be a great thing to follow this battle as well.

Williams get a dynamic driver with big fanbase, and also free.... paid and funded by Sauber/Ferrari for 2012 atleast.

Unfortunately, Sutil & Rubens look like they are going nowhere and stagnated at the moment in contract negotiations. This rumour is very logical for Ferrari, considering they too have the might to pull of what RBR did with Torro Rosso program. It's not a bad move by Ferrari at all, and would personally love to see another new talent on the grid, along with Kamui at Williams team.

Also, Robert Kubica is one option for Ferrari, but they would want to evaluate all possibilities before replacing Massa for 2013, if need be.


HUGE IF TRUE!

[mys1]

YES KOBABASHI!!!!!

[fourseven]

Lots of talk about Kubica testing the F10 in a few months time.

[Adr3naL1N]

id rather kobayashi at sauber then williams

[Jazza]

I was gonna say what's the excitement for him to go to Williams..

[Brockas]

I think Tyson is just happy someone is talking about Kaumi.

That, or he's developed a sexual fetish for Asian men.... after you know... Singapore.

[mys1]

I think Tyson is just happy someone is talking about Kaumi.

That, or he's developed a sexual fetish for Asian men.... after you know... Singapore.

Im going to snap and stab you one day....

Surley Williams wont be so shit next season, It's good to see hes not being over looked, Would be great to see him in somthing competitive!

[TJ]

Sauber was more competitive than Williams?

And they have the Ferrari tech deal now..

[mys1]

Sauber was more competitive than Williams?

And they have the Ferrari tech deal now..

Was is the key word - Williams were lucky to make the grid if I recall? no monies?

Hopefully frank has plenty from the Arabs and is ready to finance and build a better car this year!

[TJ]

Nah the rumours about Williams are bs - their profit last year was something like 40 million Euros.. they are nowhere near broke.

[mys1]

It seems odd that a team with such history has dropped to such a level

Hopefully its the low point!

[TJ]

You know Ferrari didnt win a title for like 20 odd years before Mikey?

Even the best have their moments.

[fourseven]

Lewis Hamilton splits with girlfriend, has worst season of his career.
Fernando Alonso splits with his wife, puts in stunning drives race after race.

xox

[Sully]

Fred is clearly porking Hamiltons ex.

[TJ]

Domenicalli*

[Wrexter]

Lol they have only just now announced their divorce. Yet to see if it will affect him.

[fourseven]

They've been separated since July.

[Buckets]

Hamilton is a couldabeen. Doesn't matter if he's screwing Nicole or not he won't ever live up to the hype people had for him a few seasons ago. Button is a much more mature and talented driver. Lewis is lucky if he lasts his contract with Mclaren, so many more focused and less precious drivers who would give anything for his seat. He's got talent but no focus.

[Wrexter]

fucking lol.

"Lucky if he lasts his contract"

McLaren would be lucky if Lewis sticks around.

Guys like are blowing his 2011 season waaay out of proportion.

He has a stellar 4 seasons, 1 season of highs and lows, always still consistently quick mixed with a few fuck ups (thanks to his team and himself) along the way, suddenly the guy is "lucky" to last his contract.

wow.

[jaybee]

They've been separated since July.

different circumstances in comparison to lewis' situation i think!

[Jazza]

Hold up let's be fair for once towards him forgetting the trolls.. different people react differently and get affected differently by relationships and what they're going through. People only Lewis bash as him and Fernando are really the only drivers who can challenge Vettel. Excluding Vettel he still won more races last year in a slower car and stopped RBR pole position domination. If Massa or Webber had SFA talent people would be focused on them and how average they performed this year..

[TJ]

LOL Buckets how drunk were you when you posted that.

Vettel dominated 2011.

Only non RBR Pole - Lewis Hamilton

Most non RBR wins - Lewis/Jenson

[Wrexter]

Apparently Senna to Williams..... and a good possibility of Petrov to Caterham.......

Waiting for confirmaiton.

[fourseven]

Rubens seems to think the news from Williams will be good.

[satch]

If Rubens is so positive, Maldonado to lose sponsorship money and therefore ride then ?

Petrov to Caterham didnt see that happening, Makes sense, I suppose $12m wont go amiss, and surely he can do better than Trulli has done last 2 seasons.

[fourseven]

Rubens is probably on the pipe.

Senna in the Williams factory this week and Pastor is 100% confirmed apparently. Not looking good for the old man.

[Buckets]

LOL Buckets how drunk were you when you posted that.

Quite pissed to be honest. I should install a lock on my computer / phone so I can't operate it if smashed.

Serious note time. I don't rate Lewis and think Button is a much better driver at the moment. Lewis has to pick up his bottom lip and give it a go. Even if he has a strong season in 2012 he's not going to live up to the hype that surrounded him a few years ago. And even though I do wear the odd bit of Ferrari F1 gear and do like RBR, I'm more of a McLaren fan boy, always have been, just not a Lewis fan.

[Jazza]

So you kind of support RBR, have Ferrari gear but are actually a Mclaren fan? I think your opinions are invalid.. hahaha

[Buckets]

I like RBR because of the investment Red Bull has made in motorsport across the board. The Red Bull livery could well be the iconic racing colours of our generation (Gulf / Martini ect). I have Ferrari gear because I was in Maranello rented a F430, did some hooning, visited the factory museum got a bit excited and bought some shit. McLaren on the other hand was started by a Kiwi chap called Bruce and has a successful history in various forms of motorsport that only the likes of Ferrari can match. I like this.


And yep I'm drunk posting again. Bring on Melbourne, so I can drink, perv on hot bitches, drink some more, watch some cars go round and round, drink some more and share lots more invalid opinions with the world all the while not giving a single fuck. :p

[TheChad]

The Red Bull livery could well be the iconic racing colours of our generation (Gulf / Martini ect).

i completely agree.

does anyone else think that redbull is the new Marlborough? given how bad energy drinks are for you. sure ciggies give you cancer, but smoke 6 cigarettes in a row you arent going to die, just feel shit... imagine doing that with cans of redbull.

anyway, just saying, we know they arent healthy for you, yet the brand dominates in all forms of sport, especially f1 atm.

[zeroyon]

does anyone else think that redbull is the new Marlborough? given how bad energy drinks are for you

Lol i was thinking that the other day. Gotta be in the drugs game to make it in F1.

If pharm companies ever had to advertise to sell their shit they would be number one in F1 for sure.

[Tocchi]

^ F1.com story example "Viagra F1 on the up!"

[Sully]

That'd be raising the bar.

[ALEX.]

But having to deal with pharmaceutical sponsorship may (be) hard on the drivers.

[Kaido]

i completely agree.

does anyone else think that redbull is the new Marlborough? given how bad energy drinks are for you. sure ciggies give you cancer, but smoke 6 cigarettes in a row you arent going to die, just feel shit... imagine doing that with cans of redbull.

anyway, just saying, we know they arent healthy for you, yet the brand dominates in all forms of sport, especially f1 atm.

I still find it interesting that Marlboro are still sponsor ferrari and have a deal to 2015. I wonder how much ferrari gets for just a name and no product placement on the car

[satch]

They have been associated for so long, plus they get good media exposure every now and then like the barcodes of last year etc, they find one or another way to have their name in the news.

[TJ]

Marlboro actually own the entire car space, and then off sell bits for advertising to Santander shell etc etc

[fourseven]

I don't think they do anymore.

[sdwz180]

Fuckin Marko!

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kVeXh1_0wvw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Skipmaster J]

I don't get it - what's the point of that video? Not being sarcastic, all I see is a boss telling off an employee for fucking up? Might just be my asian background, I'm used to being yelled at by elders?

[TJ]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/96855

Huge. Good bye Pat.

[zeroyon]

Webber goes for a ride with another Aussie world champ.

http://www.foxsports.com.au/motor-sports/formula-one/australian-red-bull-racing-f1-driver-mark-webber-gets-ride-from-former-world-superbike-champion-troy-bayliss/story-e6frf3zl-1226233045057

[sdwz180]

F1 has outgrown the likes of pat head, time to move on.

[TJ]

Its only the last 3 seasons where it has gone real bad for them. He has been a mainstay of the sport for 4 decades nearly.

[TJ]

A T and T Williams is now Williams - they are looking for a new sponsor.

This may play massively into the hands of Senna to get the 2nd ride as he brings big dollars.

[crabman]

http://scarbsf1.wordpress.com/2012/01/04/2012-technical-regulations-published/

[TJ]

Sounds like they believe someone/s were using some sort of traction control last year..

[fourseven]

Must of been Schumacher. Senna said so.

[crabman]

I cant wait to see Webber fail at starts with the first gear rule. Smoke show every start so he doesnt bog down and lose spots, insteads lights up and creates visbility screen :P

[mys1]

66 Days to go.

Ferrari to unvail new car on the 3rd

Kubica set back on recovery due to a fall possibly re breaking his leg

Renault have an engenious active brake/suspension set up causing upsets throughout the paddock

so close and so far....

[Jazza]

The braking system is legal and now everyone will be scrambling to copy it! It's not operated by the driver thus not a movable aero device. It's very clever.. they'll be able to run their car slightly lower, have much better tire wear and stability under braking. I just hate the fact that they've come up with it and others already have the ability to copy it.

[esky]

rumor is two of the other front running teams already have similar systems in place

[TJ]

Red bull does. Ferrari were testing it last year

[bjohnson]

I agree it's disappointing that it's already been spotted and everyone will have time to copy it..

I hope they can put their car closer to the front this year (although it's probably unlikely). I can see them having a few teething problems early in the season, especially with 2 "green" drivers.

What does everyone think about Mercedes AMG maybe ruffling some feathers this season? they were getting quicker towards the end of the year, just seems like things are slowly coming together for them.

Either way, it's an awesome time of the year!

[Skipmaster J]

Not an awesome time, there's freaking nothing going on (for the masses anyway).
I want to see some racing damnit

[TJ]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/96958

:(

[Lonewolf]

I dont think he'll ever come back, may have lost the killer/fearless instincts that make an F1 driver?

[fourseven]

I know I copped a bit of flack for this in the past, but jesus christ, a team has to be fucking retarded to even contemplate letting their drivers participate in other risky sporting events.

[Jazza]

Mmmmm hard one to call that.. I would say rallying no, go karting yes? But then where do you draw the line and you've got to keep the driver somewhat happy. It's Kubica's own career he's thrown away!

[TJ]

Look at Webber though - nearly died on a bike. Ferrari take their drivers to a winter training camp on the snow - they encourage it.

Being in a fully prepped rally car is usually pretty safe you must say. He wasnt in a full blown wrc car, non turbo thing so its not stupidly quick either.

[mys1]

Exactly he could have been hit by a truck in his own car driving to the shops, risks are what we take every day!

Fuck the cotton wool approach!

[TJ]

Ferrari has already developed its own version of the Lotus reactive ride-height system for its 2012 car, and is now just awaiting final approval from the FIA over its legality.

Lotus has pioneered a way for the ride height on its car to be maintained under braking - which will help both aerodynamic performance and stability. The system is fully mechanical and activated by brake torque.

As AUTOSPORT revealed on Wednesday, the FIA gave approval for the concept as long ago as the start of last year – and rival teams now look set to have to introduce their own versions of the concept for 2012.

High-level sources at Ferrari have confirmed that the Italian outfit has already been working on developing its own reactive ride height system for 2012 – and has submitted its plans to the FIA to ensure that it fully complies with the regulations.

Although it is understood that it has not received official approval yet, it is likely that a decision will be made in time for Ferrari to be able to fit the device to its 2012 car prior to the first pre-season tests.

Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali said at the team's media Wrooom event in Italy on Wednesday that there had been correspondence with the FIA over the matter.

"What you are talking about, is more related to having stability under braking," explained Domenicali. "It is a system that I know there have been some documents in writing between the FIA and the teams.

"We are waiting for the final confirmation if this kind of devices will be acceptable or not. But for sure we are looking around these sorts of devices to see if they contribute to a performance. But we need to wait and see what will be the reaction to the FIA on that."

[beatle]

I know I copped a bit of flack for this in the past, but jesus christ, a team has to be fucking retarded to even contemplate letting their drivers participate in other risky sporting events.

I agree to an extent, but this re-fracture was because he slipped on the ice out the front of his house. If he had done it while backflipping on roller skates it would be a different matter. everyone needs a hobby and no doubt amost F1 drivers are adreneline junkies. If they aren't out in a rally car, or a motorbike, or go kart or even a pushcycle what else are they suppose to do? go play X-box? they'd be out taking drugs and shit trying to get the same highs they get from formula 1.

[Wrexter]

yay, another year McLaren gets to start on the backfoot and plays catch up all year.

Unless they have a system in the works and have been more discreet about it..............unlikely.

[Jazza]

If they're able to copy RBR's exhaust system as quickly as they did at the start of last season this device shouldn't be too difficult to add onto their car

[TJ]

I would be amazed if any of the top teams don't have it.

[fourseven]

http://a.yfrog.com/img859/55/ta3ud.jpg

Possibly RB8? People saying it's RB7, but why you would run an RB7 without stickers doesn't make sense to me.

[Brockas]

Nose looks too high to be an RB8?

[fourseven]

The nose is the only thing with RBR stickers... RB8 chassis, old nose for testing perhaps?

[Brockas]

Possibly! The transition between nose and chassis does look a bit sharp... Having said that it also looks like a DRS rear wing?

Then again, RBR would have forgotten about the RB7 the minute the season ended, maybe even before, so I'm guessing they wouldn't be testing an RB7...

[Kaido]

http://www.yallaf1.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/lewis-hamilton-629.jpg

[Jazza]

Fak would of expected to see Brockas in those pants after his gf bought them for him not Lewis!! hahahahaha

[TJ]

No way would they allow access to the car like that.

[Brockas]

Fak would of expected to see Brockas in those pants after his gf bought them for him not Lewis!! hahahahaha
And he's still more masculine than you posing in front of a mighty boy!

[sdwz180]

Senna to Williams for 2012.

[Wrexter]

Bad news for sutil and barrichello.

I have a feeling he will do well...

[Buckets]

Senna to Williams for 2012.

Because it ended well last time a Senna drove a Williams...

It will be interesting to see how both Williams & Senna fair this season.

[TJ]

Yessssssssssssssssssssss!

Good bye Rubens - 19 years in the sport is an epic run - considering how close to death he came in Imola 94... hes had a great run.

And Sutil, well yeah probably going to end up in jail soon.

[pgc]

So I wonder what the wide open future he refers to is? A drive with someone else, maybe?

http://twitter.com/#!/rubarrichello/status/159247666675593216

[TJ]

Only seat left is HRT....

[sdwz180]

Surely HRT will only take a pay driver?

[TJ]

Rubens has dollars apparently.

[Brockas]

http://www.redbullracing.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/RB8-Unveiled-On-February-6-021243150755392

19 days to go. Looking forward to it.

[Adr3naL1N]

All south american line up at williams for 2012!

end of barrichellos career it seems.

[fourseven]

"Word is" that Rory Byrne has done a lot of chest thumping in Maranello over the last few months and the 663 is very impressive.

McLaren said to have innovative rear that is going to put RBR to shame.

[TJ]

Said = some random tweet = now truth ... Ill believe it when we see it.

[satch]

"Word is" that Rory Byrne has done a lot of chest thumping in Maranello over the last few months and the 663 is very impressive.

McLaren said to have innovative rear that is going to put RBR to shame.

LOL.. cant wait to see it. More like they rock up at testing and its shithouse and they spend the 2-3 weeks for Melbourne copying RBR, like they did last year..

Thought Rory was only doing minor consultant work for them.

[TJ]

The McLaren system was very close to being brilliant. They couldnt keep it cool, and the material they wanted to use is banned... the principle and execution would have made for a brutally fast macca.

[JME]

would,could,should=didnt=fail

only saving grace is button.....

[Jazza]

hahahahha see what he did there :P

[fourseven]

Wasn't a tweet TJ, translated Italian website :p

That system was discussed publicly. This is something new apparently.

[TJ]

Fuck yo eyetallians

[fourseven]

No hand movements makes it hard to translate shit.

[bjohnson]

lol banned..
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97127

u mad lotus?

[Wrexter]

lol banned..
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97127

u mad lotus?

U mad Ferrari?

Wow, such a sudden turn around by the FIA, Lotus and Ferrari will not be happy.

Rival teams must have been hounding the FIA about it's legality.

Ferrari and Lotus will be pissed!

Fuck I can't wait for this season to begin, car reveals and testing can't come soon enough!

[satch]

Bet lotus are regretting running it at young drivers last year, let the cat out of the bag too early!

sometimes you wonder how they go on about cost savings so much, then research research research, develop and then the FIA shoots it down after leading them on for so long.....

I guess thats why we love it :)

[fourseven]

Lotus (Renault) has had the system in testing/development for 12 months. They got approval for it this time last year under a different set of regulations so surely they would have a backup. I did see the report saying that an FIA insider said that Lotus and Ferrari weren't that bothered by the ban.

The other rumour is that Ferrari couldn't get their version of it working properly and were the source of the official protest fearing Lotus and Mercedes would succeed with it. Would laugh my ass off if true!

[Buckets]

The other rumour is that Ferrari couldn't get their version of it working properly and were the source of the official protest fearing Lotus and Mercedes would succeed with it. Would laugh my ass off if true!

Sounds like a Ferrarish thing to do... :p

[mehow2g]

Ill be in europe when the British and German GP is on which one should I go to?

[fourseven]

Both! A flight from Germany to Britain costs fuck all.

Personally I'd go Hockenheim, unless you're a Lewis fan. I imagine Silverstone is packed with poofters supporting Lewis.

[TJ]

Germany is usually kind to him though, might be good if you want to see him on a podium (potentially - disclaimer we have no idea how 2012 is going to go)

[fourseven]

We know exactly how it's going to go!

Vettel will win everything.
Jenson and Lewis will fight for the scraps.
Alonso will put a shitty Ferrari on the podium a few times.
Kimi will eat some icecream.

[pgc]

http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2012/1/12944.html

[TJ]

http://cdn.gallery.autosport.com/picture_free.php/dir/kimir30test/image/_q0c8868-2

hes back...

[Wrexter]

http://i1116.photobucket.com/albums/k576/jovanotti1/raik_lotu_vale_2012-15.jpg

[Jazza]

Anyone else feel a bit sorry for Lotus? Bit harsh by the FIA but maybe Ferrari's design didn't work so they had to outlaw it :P

[fourseven]

Williams appear to be behind the request for clarification on technical regulations for the RRH system. Wasn't a formal protest though.

[Kaido]

Looks like maybe it wasn't Ferrari
Reactive ride banned because FIA believed it gave an aerodynamic benefit

Reactive suspension systems were banned from Formula 1 once it became clear to the FIA that their principle benefit was aerodynamic, AUTOSPORT has learned.

The governing body wrote to teams on Friday informing them that, in its view, the mechanical concepts pioneered by Lotus and Ferrari and being looked at by other teams would be in contravention of the rules if they were used to help the aerodynamics of the cars.

This came despite the initial idea for the hydraulic devices, activated by brake torque, being given the green light as long ago as January last year.

At the time of that initial approval to the then Renault team, it was understood that the devices were purely suspension related and aimed at maintaining ride-height - so effectively nothing more than a sophisticated version of rising-rate springs.

However, with rival teams having expressed an interest in the design, and querying its legality after it was spotted at last year's young driver test in Abu Dhabi, the FIA decided to look much closer at the reactive ride concept.

It is understood that as more details emerged about the Renault and Ferrari systems, both in terms of how they worked and what their benefit was, it became clear that the main advantage of the suspension systems was in helping aerodynamic performance.

The FIA believed that because the systems relied on changes being made to the length of the suspension member as well as unusual movement of the brake calipers - and these alterations helped the aerodynamics of the car – that they were in breach of Article 3.15 of F1's Technical Regulations, which effectively bans moveable aerodynamic devices.

The article states that any part that influences aerodynamic performance "must be rigidly secured to the entirely sprung part of the car (rigidly secured means not having any degree of freedom)" and "must remain immobile in relation to the sprung part of the car."

As well as the potential breach of the aerodynamic rules, it is understood that there was a risk of the reactive ride systems getting challenged under the articles relating to suspension in the F1 regulations too.

Article 10.2.1 states: "With the steering wheel fixed, the position of each wheel centre and the orientation of its rotation axis must be completely and uniquely defined by a function of its principally vertical suspension travel, save only for the effects of reasonable compliance which does not intentionally provide further degrees of freedom."

Article 10.2.3 says: "No adjustment may be made to the suspension system while the car is in motion."

The decision to make a ruling on the reactive suspension systems now removes the threat of the matter building up into a major technical controversy before the start of the season, which could have overshadowed the first race like the double diffuser row did in 2009.

Although the FIA directive states that the governing body views the devices to be illegal, there is nothing stopping teams from continuing to test them and fitting them to the cars for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix – because the final decision on whether they comply with the regulations always rests with the race stewards. But such a scenario is thought to be highly unlikely.

[jaybee]

Anyone else feel a bit sorry for Lotus?

I did until i read Kaido's post, they clearly would have known the risk they were taking spending resources developing this.

[sdwz180]

Yesterdays news but anyway...

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PCV2xCCyAgk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Gr3mlin]

If this is a re-post...sorrry

http://www.f1technical.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=9909

Heard Red Bull gave him a job after they saw the thread, not sure how accurate that is.

[TJ]

He says it himself on page 9

[TJ]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oLq7a_FtMn0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gzLG6vaXcJk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

old school

[summoner]

Vettel!! 2012 WDC! *crosses fingers*

[pgc]

Reckon you'll miss when the wets go on this year?

http://a.yfrog.com/img532/2239/93772023.jpg

[Autopilot]

http://quikk.se/?b6fa52

Apparently this year the compounds are meant to be less than a second apart.

http://www.thef1times.com//news/cache/images/pirelli-2012-tyres.jpg

And the new Caterham...

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/409480_269111283155923_102855529781500_675161_1533 18172_n.jpg

[fourseven]

Apparently the new Ferrari.

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/3575/14764eccolaferrari2012c.jpg

http://www.auto.it/images/auto/23/C_3_Media_1408623_immagine_newsdet.jpg

[Brockas]

And the new Caterham...

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/409480_269111283155923_102855529781500_675161_1533 18172_n.jpg
http://www.platypus2.com.au/images/platypus-02.jpg

[fourseven]

2 things...

1. What the fuck is the relevance of the platypus.
2. Check your Facebook messages!

[Brockas]

Do you not see the resemblance between the new lotus front nose and a platypus?

[jaybee]

the ducted fins on the rear wing of the ferrari looks interesting.

any ideas with the front end of the caterham? are the ends of the nose trying to channel air away from the front wheels to reduce drag perhaps?

[Autopilot]

I must be the only pingpingpingping in here that actually likes Rubens (he's better than dickheads like Jarno Trulli) so at least for some of us there is good news that he can continue in motorsport in a half decent series.



http://assets.speedtv.com/images/article_assets/108/1084699/1084699_article_img_large1.jpg

The most experienced driver in Formula One history is going to test an Indy car next week in Sebring, Fla. but it’s not known whether or not Rubens Barrichello is serious about a full-time ride in the 2012 IZOD INDYCAR series.

SPEED has learned that the 40-year-old Brazilian is driving one of KV Racing Technology’s cars alongside countryman and good friend Tony Kanaan next Monday and Tuesday in Florida.

Co-owner Jimmy Vasser, team manager Mark Johnson and Kanaan could not be reached for comment but Barrichello’s debut in an Indy car was confirmed by a source close to the Indy-based team.

He was at KV's shop earlier this week for a seat fitting.

A 19-year veteran of Formula One with 322 starts, 11 wins and a pair of runner-up finishes in the World Championship, Barrichello was not retained by Frank Williams following the 2011 season.

The chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers Association, Rubens became the first driver to ever reach 300 F1 starts in 2010. His last victory came at the Italian Grand Prix in 2009 for Brawn Racing.

Nigel Mansell was also 40 years old when he left F1 for CART in 1993, where he captured the championship.

Kanaan finished fifth in the 2011 point standings for KV Racing, which is planning to run three cars with Chevrolet power this year.


Source (http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-rubens-barrichello-sets-indycar-test-in-florida/)

[TJ]

https://p.twimg.com/AkF0sCcCIAAZPLl.jpg

[Adr3naL1N]

looks like a happy pingpingpingping!

[summoner]

Walking through Melbs along the Yarra river in southbank and there's an Aus GP display with some red bull stuff and some shitty silver looking thing

Redbulls latest weapon :bowdown:
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/421480_10150519334030958_568170957_8963274_8601416 77_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/402026_10150611481525535_608185534_11206328_758340 839_n.jpg

2 seater old school Sauber? (correct me if wrong please :o)
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/417280_10150519334725958_568170957_8963289_1418712 865_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/428846_10150611482525535_608185534_11206331_163804 6026_n.jpg

Shitty silver turd driven by some Hamilton fellow
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/402674_10150519335080958_568170957_8963295_1123255 089_n.jpg

My friend Roz being a winner
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/427483_10150611482105535_608185534_11206330_115044 5690_n.jpg

[TJ]

Mark - RB have about 10 of those 4WD's around Aus - they begin life as a Jeep.

Have been in the Perth one - its awesome. Hit a button, unfolds a full stereo and dj setup in 5 min.

The 2 door is a Minardi.

[summoner]

Mark - RB have about 10 of those 4WD's around Aus - they begin life as a Jeep.

Have been in the Perth one - its awesome. Hit a button, unfolds a full stereo and dj setup in 5 min.

The 2 door is a Minardi.
Ah fair enough, havent seen the jeeps before. Minardo eh, surprised the thing didn't crash just as it was sitting there

[fourseven]

Shit translation, but you get the idea.


Race driver Adrian Sutil has to be next week on charges of aggravated assault in the Munich district court. The 29-year-old is on 18 Have a club in April in Shanghai, one member of the Formula 1 team Lotus-Renault with a champagne glass seriously injured. Lotus-owner Eric Lux Roger suffered a heavily bleeding wound on his neck. Munich on Monday and Tuesday so once again the scene of a process for criminal incidents in the Formula 1 circus. As is known, is currently negotiating the Munich District Court against ex-banker Gerhard Gribkowsky country, who had, according to prosecutors of Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone to be bribed. The case of Star-born Berger Sutil, who stands at the moment with no commitment at the pinnacle of motor sport played, but not in a boardroom, but in a night club called "M1NT" 24 Floor of a building in Shanghai. What was in dispute, the district court to the injured Lux, Ex-Virgin pilot Jerome d'Ambrosio describe the PR woman Emma Buxton and Sutil's manager Manfred Zimmermann. Even Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton was loaded for the first trial, due to other appointments had to apologize but the 27-year-old. Sutil denies the premeditated attack. His manager had declared in advance Sutil wanted to pour the contents of the glass only Lux's face. Here, the glass was broken. By Lux suffered a broken neck wound nine inches long, which had to be sewn. The prosecution, however, comes from a deliberate attack. Consequently, Sutil had angered because Lux would throw him out of the reserved VIP section. Sutil had been sitting on the back of a couch and had beaten its opposite end against the glass of the neck. The rider should himself in the process injured his hand. The prosecutors wanted to send him a penalty: one year suspended prison sentence. Sutil because this admission of guilt could not but suppose it comes to the process. The venue is Munich because he last lived in Gräfelfing, before he moved to Switzerland.

[bjohnson]

MP4-27 unveiling at 7:00pm tonight.

http://www.mclaren.com/page/watch-the-launch-of-the-vodafone-mclaren-mercedes-mp4-27-live-1

[Wrexter]

MP4-27 unveiling at 7:00pm tonight.

http://www.mclaren.com/page/watch-the-launch-of-the-vodafone-mclaren-mercedes-mp4-27-live-1

Very excite!

A News Story appeared on Autosport and SkySports yesterday about the new McLaren but it dissapeared within an hour, very strange.


McLaren are braced for a fight over the legality of the new MP4-27 when their 2012 car is unveiled on Wednesday.

The Woking squad have targeted a fast start with their latest challenger in a bid to take on World Champions Red Bull from the first race in 2012 having been forced to play catch-up in recent seasons.

Speaking a day ahead of the launch of the MP4-27 on the team's official website, McLaren's Geoff McGrath, the managing director of the outfit's Applied Technologies arm, said the innovative element of the new design would be clear to see from the outset - and is expected to prompt protests from rivals.

"There are technical innovations on the car which will be immediately obvious when you see them," McGrath told Autosport.

He added that the team are "getting ready for a fight" over the MP4-27, with Autosport suggesting that McLaren's new car is designed to improve their qualifying performance in 2012 so that they can control races from the front.

McLaren had initially taken an innovative approach with the exhaust system on last year's MP4-26 but were forced to revert to a more conventional layout from the first race after their pre-season testing programme was beset by unreliability.

Team principal Martin Whitmarsh stressed, however, towards the end of last year that their design team had been encouraged to take a more aggressive approach for 2012, and McGrath says that McLaren are determined to take the fight to RBR from the off.

"We've started way behind in the last couple of years - that's the really disappointing thing," he added.

"But when we're behind, you can see that historically we always catch up faster than anyone else."

McLaren will unveil the eagerly-anticipated MP4-27 from 11am - with the launch covered live on Sky Sports.com/F1.

[esky]

Either the quotes or the source is bs for the them to take it down.

[summoner]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6761566991_46f5a4f1c4_b.jpg

[TJ]

wow if true.

[MadDocker]

I like the look of it! Cant wait to see all the new cars.

[fourseven]

I hope that's a legit photo. What a stunning car!

Mercedes to go chrome perhaps?

[Buckets]

What a stunning car!

+1 I love the darker colour scheme. If this is the car and it is a fast as it is awesome to look at McLaren have done a good thing with this one.

[jaybee]

holy shit that looks fucking NICE.

[Wrexter]

That does look awesome, but i doubt that's a official image of the MP4-27, it looks like a photoshop of the MP4-26.

4 hours to launch.

[fourseven]

Sutil given suspended sentence.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97234

[TJ]

No drives for you!

[Wrexter]

Apparently the German judge gave him a harsher sentence because he was 'famous'.

I don't think we will see him in F1 again, a sponsors nightmare........

[esky]

White for Jenson

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6770998177_398474bd3e_b.jpg

Black for Lewis

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6761566991_46f5a4f1c4_b.jpg

[Brockas]

That's some racist shit right there.


Nice photoshops though, pity both are car #3.

[esky]

Pretty sure they may actually go with the white and red scheme of the 80s/90's

Released images of the Mclaren team shirts are white with red logo.

http://i.imgur.com/8vkyv.png

Merc wanted the siilver/chrome, so i think fourseven is right Merc will run that sort of colour scheme and Mclaren will change schemes as well.

[Brockas]

Hope so.

TBH I'd much rather see a white/red McLaren again, even if it's just for nostalgia's sake.

[TJ]

x2 either of those.

[esky]

lol

http://www.maximum-attack.com/F1ride1.gif

http://www.maximum-attack.com/F1ride2.gif

[fourseven]

LOL at the black and white cars.

[mjp]

http://www.mclaren.com/page/watch-the-launch-of-the-vodafone-mclaren-mercedes-mp4-27-live-1

live telecast of the unveiling of MP4-27

[satch]

original pic actually has JB's tyres on them.


Mclaren site getting raped hard ?

[TJ]

https://p.twimg.com/AkkAtLnCAAEgY3f.jpg

almost go time

[Kaido]

lol same colours

[fourseven]

http://i.imgur.com/ietIK.jpg

[summoner]

http://i40.tinypic.com/2vj5xu1.jpg

[XsQuiZiT]

re: wing mirrors

"Massa will be happy"

ahaha

[fourseven]

LOL at Lewis!

"We've changed the wing mirrors, so we can see a little better. Felipe will be happy with that."

[Brockas]

I can't get it to load at all.


Guessing every F1 fan on the internet logging on at the same time has effectively buttfucked their servers.

[fourseven]

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/2676/capturempgsnapshot01272.jpg

(open image in new tab to see larger view!)

[fourseven]

LOL at JB.

"As you can see, it's beautiful. Some of those you see will not be. To me, that's important."

Scarbs already saying he thinks their exhaust design will flunk.

[mjp]

Glad to see McMerc keep the chrome duco!
I lol-ed about hamilton on mirrors haha :D

[TJ]

The exhaust sticks quite far outboard, the 10cm exhaust. Then point up steeply and inwards. But expect this to change

Not sure he says it will flunk.

[Wrexter]

Maybe fake exaust until test.

Lots of parts on that car will be decoys until test.

Mclaren Engineers > Scarbs

[fourseven]

You don't change something that works :p

[summoner]

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mclaren_mp4_27_2012_2.jpg

bigger image

[fourseven]

Just looks like last years car to me.

Shame they didn't change the colours.

[fourseven]

http://i.imgur.com/sUSRY.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Aem90.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/WnA7t.jpg

[TJ]

I think there is alot of details lost under that chrome paint and convenient angle...

[esky]

Just looks like last years car to me.

Shame they didn't change the colours.

+1

Rather disappointing at first look

[manna_85]

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/1743/mclarenmp42720122.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/252/mclarenmp42720122.jpg/)

Yeah i would have to agree. wish they changed the colour scheme. Side pods look a lot better. Now to see how the RBR looks.

[Buckets]

Wish they went with the livery that was being bandied around this arvo, the darker scheme looked way cooler than the chrome set up. Still looks okay though.

[jaybee]

i'm undecided if the black rims are an improvement. the shadow chrome body would been so much better!

biggest change seems to be the way the air will be channeled to the rear wing, and how narrow the body gets near the engine and gearbox.

[Brockas]

Looks like they've modeled it on the RB7's tight bum.

That exhaust exit does seem to exit directly into the rear diffuser again and without the throttle maps of 2011 I wonder how stable the car will be under braking.

So glad the L-shaped side pods are gone.

[manna_85]

This angle looks a bit better.

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/405/mclarenmp427side4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/217/mclarenmp427side4.jpg/)

[TJ]

Paddy Lowe just said there will be an upgrade package from the third test!

http://i.imgur.com/3NrXU.jpg

[jaybee]

ok yep, looks better than the 26. actually just noticed that small fin in the middle of the rear wing too, help down force on the inside rear wheel whilst cornering?

[TJ]

Its the DRS activator

[jaybee]

ahh rigteo.

[Jazza]

I have a feeling that's a good step forward. Massive shame about not using the black but figured it was a PS. It's just whether or not Ferrari/Red Bull have made a similar or larger step forward or not! Ferrari's car seems pretty much all new so that'll be interesting..
I don't think Mercedes will be up with the front three even though there is talk of it.

[esky]

Bit hard to tell using my phone but the rear doesnt appear much tighter then the 25 was.

[TJ]

25 didnt have kers

[esky]

24? or 25? (pretty sure car on left is the 25) as in the comparision with overhead pics. sorry the number one on the car is confusing me, only the 24 ran with it?
24?/25? vs 26 vs 27.

http://i.imgur.com/3NrXU.jpg

27 doesn't appear much thinner if anything vs the 24?/25?.

[Bomber]

Notice the lack of number 1 on 26 and 27 :D

[Brockas]

It's deceptive though, because of the exhaust outlets on the 27.

Also, I think you'll find the 27 is far more 'tucked' up that the others, in other words, the top is similar, but underneath it's a lot more aggressive? Could be wrong but that's what it looks like to me.

I honestly think anyone who's completely redesigned their cars for this year will be at a disadvantage. The regulations have not changed much and it would be far better to advance on a previous design than to start from scratch.

[esky]

Regs havn't change much but the change from ebd to non means a pretty different design idea.

For all i know the super tight rear end might not be the best for a non exhaust blown car. After all ferrari did beat rbr at silverstone when the blowing was limited, so maybe the skinny rear isn't that crucial.

Can't wait for rbr to release their car.

[esky]

http://twitpic.com/8eb64c/full

huge full res pic

[esky]

great tool for comparing cars

http://mclarenf-1.com/index.php?page=srch&ch1=15&ch2=22

[Kaido]

when does pre-season testing begin?

interesting to see what lotus can bring to the party and if they can be in the top 4.

Without a doubt the top 3 will be Mac, RBR and Ferrari... how close together they are will be the interesting part, lets hope RBR won't walk away with another season

[Kaido]

great tool for comparing cars

http://mclarenf-1.com/index.php?page=srch&ch1=15&ch2=22

from that looks like the 2012 is a tad shorter

[summoner]

http://i.imgur.com/s57a1.jpg

Wonder if others will have this bit and how much benefit it has.. also how are they going to cool the KERS down now they've removed the vents above the engine intake for it.

[TJ]

The same way every other team did last year I guess?

That vane under the nose has been on cars before.

Exhaust bulge will mean every right end wont be quite as tight - exhaust position this year is mandated remember.

The 25 is the 2010 car, it was agreed via gentlemans agreement that there would be no kers after 2009. Hence why the rear was as tight as was.

I think the car is actually pretty good - you know the front and rear wings wont be the same at the test, nor will alot of what we see atm.

[Jumanji]

This angle looks a bit better.

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/405/mclarenmp427side4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/217/mclarenmp427side4.jpg/)

The "T" piece at the tops missing.

[Wrexter]

The "T" piece at the tops missing.

Its always missing at launch, dont know why they don't add it as it looks funny without it.

The 'T' piece house one ofthe mandatory FOM on-board Cameras.

[Jumanji]

Its always missing at launch, dont know why they don't add it as it looks funny without it.

The 'T' piece house one ofthe mandatory FOM on-board Cameras.

Thought so, I wasnt aware they didnt launch the car with them all the time. But yeah, I was a bit like "somethings missing ...... lol"

[TJ]

http://www.racecar-engineering.com/cars/mclaren-mp4-27/

[summoner]

http://events.ferrari.com/singleseater2012/

21minutes until Ferrari unveil their car

[TJ]

AHHHHH ME FUCKING PLAYTAPUSSSSSSSSS

[Wrexter]

http://cdn.images.autosport.com/editorial/1328259831.jpg

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lnwltqhA7R1qzj7lm.png

That stepped nose is ugly!!! Exhaust looks radical.!

[Kaido]

LOL! i wonder what the gains are from the stepped noses!

[mys1]

Fuck yeah go you duck billed thing!

[fourseven]

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ferrari_f2012-1.jpg

(open in new tab for big res)

[TJ]

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ferrari_f2012-1.jpg

[Wrexter]

Ferrari are going for the World Snow Ploughing Championships

[fourseven]

So Caterham, Ferrari and FI have stepped noses.

McLaren don't.

Someone didn't get the memo!

[fourseven]

VJM05

http://s1-04.twitpicproxy.com/photos/full/509038455.jpg

[summoner]

the side pods are beautiful though

[TJ]

Yeah, Ferrari, Caterham and FI didnt!

[fourseven]

LOL and when Redbull reveal their stepped nose, suddenly McLaren will be scrambling for a redraw xox

It's ok though, they built a beautiful car! It won't win races, but it's beautiful!

[summoner]

LOL and when Redbull reveal their stepped nose, suddenly McLaren will be scrambling for a redraw xox

It's ok though, they built a beautiful car! It won't win races, but it's beautiful!
hence it was released as the MP4-27A.. they know there'll be a B for Bull in a few weeks.

[Wrexter]

Fucking LOL at all the stepped noses! surely that cant be good for aero efficiency?

The Ferrari is quite beautiful though...............from the step back.....

Good Looking Car Rankings

1. McLaren
=2. Caterham F1
=2. Ferrari
4. Force India

[summoner]

although, mclaren do tend to run a lower nose in the previous years anyway so I guess it has played into their design philosophy more

[TJ]

Haha every Mclaren every released has started with the A prefix, it just doesnt get used

Next!

[Kaido]

keen to see what redbull do with the noses haha!

redbull go step everyone will change to step hahaha

[Wrexter]

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/Ferrari27/afff688a.jpg

[redline07]

Not the prettiest car but as long as it's fast I won't be complaining!

[Wrexter]

One more for the Tifosi's:

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/3163/f20121.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0lSwZdHm5o/Tw4MB0jZeuI/AAAAAAAAAl8/TN2OsO_WQ3s/s1600/baxter-cain-baseketball-gif-disgust.gif

[TJ]

From the cockpit back it is a nice looking thing actually - pods seem very nice and refined.

[Wrexter]

http://adamcooperf1.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/img_4023.jpg

[fourseven]

http://origin.speciali.ferrari.com/f2012/app/assets/home/car_animation/web/car2012.png

[Buckets]

Is it possible the stepped nose aids front downforce ? A bit like a lip spoiler... there may be some advantage to trying to get some downforce generated higher up on the front of the car.

It doesn't look the best but if it makes the car a poofteenth quicker it's the right idea.

[manna_85]

ohh ffs.... i hope rbr didnt follow this design.... but yeah as above, as long as its giving the intended performance they will have the last laugh....

[fourseven]

If what the Italian media are saying is true, that's a Rory Byrne car. If he designed that then his interpretation of the new regulations combined with his genius means that is the best way to achieve the desired performance. He's been spotted living in Maranello since September when he left Thailand with his family.

Looks like I may have chosen the wrong time to switch which team to support! Good luck RBR!

[Brockas]

http://www.platypus2.com.au/images/platypus-02.jpg


2 things...

1. What the fuck is the relevance of the platypus.
2. Check your Facebook messages!
May have already mentioned the Platypus when talking about the Lotus. The Ferrariis even worse!

Rhett, do you still not see the relevance?

[fourseven]

Haha yeah I do. I actually paid no attention to the Caterham nose from that photo, didn't pick up on it until after your post.

[fourseven]

Scarb's theory on the F2012 blowing rear ducts.

http://a.yfrog.com/img739/9406/6cjix.jpg

http://a.yfrog.com/img576/5251/mqenv.jpg

[esky]

http://origin.speciali.ferrari.com/f2012/app/assets/home/car_animation/web/car2012.png

that front suspension is crazy, the pull rod is flat. how it limits suspension movement i got no idea.

[esky]

http://i.imgur.com/EgTVZ.png

massive difference in design

[SimonR32]

I can only assume the stepped nose is to direct air over the drivers head and into the intake while creating a bit of downforce...


... and to make the car look super ugly