Sir Frank Williams has delivered an upbeat message about his team`s prospects for 2006.
The 63-year-old`s new blue and white car, no longer powered by a works engine or backed by a title sponsor, has shown up well on the winter tracks, after the `05 FW27 slumped to fifth in the team tally.
Some analysts say the new Cosworth V8, although without the financial muscle of the other engine makers, is at least a match for Honda, Ferrari and Renault -- if not superior.

``This year`s car,`` Williams said, referring to the FW28, ``is a big step forward compared to last year`s (car).

``However, it`s too early to comment as there are many unknown factors.``

A weakness last year was aerodynamics, but lead driver Mark Webber revealed that FW28 - with a unique barb on the rear of the engine cover - is `very aggressive in terms of its aerodynamic design.`

The Australian told The Age: ``(The FW28) car has been in the wind tunnel a long time and a lot of effort went into it. I hope that will translate to pace.

``Cosworth made a superb engine for us,`` Webber continued, ``but being an independent operation, I hope we are in for a solid year.``

Tags: grand-prix,