2006 package not far off the 2005 paceDespite adopting an all new 2.4 litre V8 formula this year, speeds at Sakhir were less than a second slower than last year reflecting the return of tyre changes and ongoing development of the race cars.
In 2005, Pedro de la Rosa - with a V10-powered McLaren-Mercedes producing 950 hp - raced to a best lap in Bahrain of 1.31.447s. On Sunday, Nico Rosberg`s V8 best - with a 760 horse power Cosworth - was 1.32.408s.
But while new engines may not have hugely slowed the pack, former Jordan technical director Gary Anderson reckons the change will spice up the on-track action.
"Bahrain showed that the drivers are now willing to have a go and throw it around a bit," he told Setanta.
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