You know when its Christmas when BMW does an internet video of an acapella group from Zurich signing Jingle Bells, while inside a BMW M135i, while driven around the L’Anneau du Rhin track in eastern France, while driven by former DTM champion and current BMW DTM driver Martin Tomcyzk. Which, BMW "dubbed The Fastest Christmas Song in the World". What possibly go wrong? apart from haky voices, ashen faces and screams. One terrified girl simply stopped singing in a back of a BMW M135i.
The Youtube video below, enjoy the ride.
BMW version of a good Christmas.
So last post for 2012. That means Happy Christmas/Holidays guys and see you in 2013. Bye.
Sunday, 23 December 2012
Saturday, 22 December 2012
Peugeot 208 R5 Rally Car
Despite Peugeot have pulled out endurance racing back in early in 2012. But, Peugeot does have a rally history with great examples of cars with victories under them like the Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 (1985 and 1986 WRC Manufacture Champions), Peugeot 206 WRC (2000, 2001 and 2002 WRC Manufacture Champions), Peugeot 307 WRC (three times WRC rally wins), Peugeot 207 Super 2000 (2007, 2008 and 2009 IRC Manufacture Champions) and so forth.
Now Peugeot have brought out the New Peugeot 208 R5 Rally Car for Group R in WRC for 2013. Basically Group R will replace Group A, Group N and later on in time S2000 class. You will basically see these Group R cars in the new WRC2 class for 2013 and onwards.
The 2013 Peugeot 208 Type R5 Rally Car was launch early in the year at the Paris Motor Show. The 208 R5 has a 1.6 litre 4-cylinders turbo engine that produces around 260 bhp and top speed around the 155 mph mark.
Youtube video of the Peugeot 208 Type R5 at the annual Monza Rally Show from last November.
Lets hope this Peugeot has the winning car like its predecessors before.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Now Peugeot have brought out the New Peugeot 208 R5 Rally Car for Group R in WRC for 2013. Basically Group R will replace Group A, Group N and later on in time S2000 class. You will basically see these Group R cars in the new WRC2 class for 2013 and onwards.
The 2013 Peugeot 208 Type R5 Rally Car was launch early in the year at the Paris Motor Show. The 208 R5 has a 1.6 litre 4-cylinders turbo engine that produces around 260 bhp and top speed around the 155 mph mark.
Youtube video of the Peugeot 208 Type R5 at the annual Monza Rally Show from last November.
Lets hope this Peugeot has the winning car like its predecessors before.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Friday, 21 December 2012
So what F1 races will be live on the Beeb next season?
Today, BBC has revealed its coverage plans for all F1 races in 2013. Ten races will be shown live on BBC One, includes these races:
While the other ten races, there will be extended highlights programmes on BBC One, of either 90-minute or two-hour duration depending on race location.
My only concern is that no Monaco Grand Prix live on the BBC, I thought it was contracted to be on Beeb when the deal with Sky happened last year, the same as the British Grand Prix and the final race of the season have to be on the BBC. But, with 21st July date for whatever grand prix it could be (was the race in New Jersey before that was delayed to 2014), I don't think that race will happen to be honest and it will be a 19 Grand Prixs' for 2013, so why not put the Monaco Grand Prix back on the Beeb as it replacement. But apart form that, all and all, good choices from the BBC for next season.
Meanwhile, Suzi Perry has been revealed as the new presenter of the BBC's Formula 1 programme, replacing Jake Humphrey who is moving to BT in 2013. The former Gadget Show host fronted the BBC's World Superbikes and MotoGP coverage for a total of ten seasons back in 2000-2009. In my opinion a good choice from the Beeb for picking Suzi Perry.
End of post for how, new post soon, bye.
- 14 April: China
- 12 May: Spain
- 9 June: Canada
- 30 June: Britain
- 21 July: TBA
- 2 September: Belgium
- 8 September: Italy
- 13 October: Japan
- 27 October: India
- 25 November: Brazil
While the other ten races, there will be extended highlights programmes on BBC One, of either 90-minute or two-hour duration depending on race location.
My only concern is that no Monaco Grand Prix live on the BBC, I thought it was contracted to be on Beeb when the deal with Sky happened last year, the same as the British Grand Prix and the final race of the season have to be on the BBC. But, with 21st July date for whatever grand prix it could be (was the race in New Jersey before that was delayed to 2014), I don't think that race will happen to be honest and it will be a 19 Grand Prixs' for 2013, so why not put the Monaco Grand Prix back on the Beeb as it replacement. But apart form that, all and all, good choices from the BBC for next season.
Meanwhile, Suzi Perry has been revealed as the new presenter of the BBC's Formula 1 programme, replacing Jake Humphrey who is moving to BT in 2013. The former Gadget Show host fronted the BBC's World Superbikes and MotoGP coverage for a total of ten seasons back in 2000-2009. In my opinion a good choice from the Beeb for picking Suzi Perry.
End of post for how, new post soon, bye.
2013 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
This post is the all new 2013 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car. The facts you need to know is simple, a 3.8 litre flat six cylinder engine produces around 460 bhp (10 bhp more than the pervious 911 GT3 Cup car), 0-60 in 3.9 seconds, top speed of 190 mph, weights only just 1175 kg and Michelin racing tyres as-well. And other facts are on both of these YouTube videos below from Porsche. them-selves, enjoy
The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car on a track near you in 2013.
End of post for how, new post soon, bye.
The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car on a track near you in 2013.
End of post for how, new post soon, bye.
Thursday, 20 December 2012
M-Sport to help develop Bentley's new Continental GT3 race car
Early in the year, Bentley unveiled the Continental GT3 car, which was based on the current Continental GT with which it plans to make its motorsport return in late 2013.
This week Bentley announced it has entered into a technical partnership with M-Sport to develop its new Continental GT3 racer. Ford's former long-term partner in the World Rally Championship has been signed up, as Bentley gets ready to enter the GT3 arena at the end of the 2013 season.
As part of the new deal, M-Sport will design and develop specialist components, together with design work and project organisation being undertaken in-house by Bentley at its factory in Crewe.
In my opionon, good news for both British brands, M-Sport something going forward after Ford withdrawal from the WRC early in the season, and Bentley too who got the deal with M-Sport to develop the Continental GT3 and could be a winning formula and a winning race car in late 2013 and 2014. Bring on 2013 for both brands.
End of blog for how, new blog soon, bye.
This week Bentley announced it has entered into a technical partnership with M-Sport to develop its new Continental GT3 racer. Ford's former long-term partner in the World Rally Championship has been signed up, as Bentley gets ready to enter the GT3 arena at the end of the 2013 season.
As part of the new deal, M-Sport will design and develop specialist components, together with design work and project organisation being undertaken in-house by Bentley at its factory in Crewe.
In my opionon, good news for both British brands, M-Sport something going forward after Ford withdrawal from the WRC early in the season, and Bentley too who got the deal with M-Sport to develop the Continental GT3 and could be a winning formula and a winning race car in late 2013 and 2014. Bring on 2013 for both brands.
End of blog for how, new blog soon, bye.
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Kobayashi gives up on F1 2013 race seat
Kamui Kobayashi has written a letter to his fans this week explaining that he will not be able to secure a competitive race seat for the 2013 Formula 1 season, leaving the popular Japanese driver to focus on a 2014 return instead, despite he has managed to raise more than six million pounds in funding.
After being dropped by Sauber for 2013, his race seat had been taken over by Nico Hülkenberg and Esteban Gutiérrez. While Kobayashi's former 2012 team-mate Sergio Pérez will be moving to McLaren for 2013.
As I said early in the year, I would have pick Kamui Kobayashi once again at Sauber for another season and have Esteban Gutiérrez as a test-driver in Friday practice one in Grand Prix weekends, similar to Jules Bianchi at Force India and Valtteri Bottas at Williams done this season in my opinion.
Overall, sad to see that Kamui Kobayashi can't find a Formula 1 drive for 2013, personally I think his talented driver. You just got to wonder who's got the remanding drives at Force India (Bruno Senna or Adrian Sutil or Jaime Alguersuari) and Caterham (Giedo van der Garde or Heikki Kovalainen or Vitaly Petrov) for next season as he can't find a drive in Formula 1, how much they are bring to those teams. Formula 1 going to miss you Kamui Kobayashi for 2013.
Anyway, end of post for now, new post soon, bye.
After being dropped by Sauber for 2013, his race seat had been taken over by Nico Hülkenberg and Esteban Gutiérrez. While Kobayashi's former 2012 team-mate Sergio Pérez will be moving to McLaren for 2013.
As I said early in the year, I would have pick Kamui Kobayashi once again at Sauber for another season and have Esteban Gutiérrez as a test-driver in Friday practice one in Grand Prix weekends, similar to Jules Bianchi at Force India and Valtteri Bottas at Williams done this season in my opinion.
Overall, sad to see that Kamui Kobayashi can't find a Formula 1 drive for 2013, personally I think his talented driver. You just got to wonder who's got the remanding drives at Force India (Bruno Senna or Adrian Sutil or Jaime Alguersuari) and Caterham (Giedo van der Garde or Heikki Kovalainen or Vitaly Petrov) for next season as he can't find a drive in Formula 1, how much they are bring to those teams. Formula 1 going to miss you Kamui Kobayashi for 2013.
Anyway, end of post for now, new post soon, bye.
Confirmed: Max Chilton driving for Marussia for 2013
It has been confirmed that Max Chilton will be making his Formula 1 debut next season with Marussia, stepping up from GP2 Series this season, were he finished in forth place in the series with two GP2 race wins this season.
Max Chilton will bring sponsorship (sponsors such as AON) to the team next season. And he will be one of four British drivers on the grid next season, joining Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton and Paul di Resta.
In my opinion, this move was going to happen two months back. Now its been announced, its good news for the Brits as we got four British drivers on the grid to support. And finally good luck to Max Chilton next season as it will be a big challenge next season to step up the pace of Formula 1 compare to GP2. His driving with the big boys from now on.
End of post for now, new post soon, bye.
Max Chilton will bring sponsorship (sponsors such as AON) to the team next season. And he will be one of four British drivers on the grid next season, joining Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton and Paul di Resta.
In my opinion, this move was going to happen two months back. Now its been announced, its good news for the Brits as we got four British drivers on the grid to support. And finally good luck to Max Chilton next season as it will be a big challenge next season to step up the pace of Formula 1 compare to GP2. His driving with the big boys from now on.
End of post for now, new post soon, bye.
Tuesday, 18 December 2012
Speaking of 2012 Champion of Race of Champions Champion, Romain Grosjean confirmed at Lotus for 2013 season
Lotus F1 team will retain Romain Grosjean for 2013, Lotus yesterday announced that Romain Grosjean will again partner Kimi Raikkonen next season. Which means, extending his contract with the Enstone-based squad after making his return to the sport this season.
In my opinion not a surprise there, If I was the Lotus team I would have kept Romain Grosjean for another season at least. The Former GP2 champion does have the speed in Formula 1, but some of his first lap incidents and which includes an one-race ban at Monza early in the season too from the first lap Belgium Grand Prix incident has overshadowed some of his achievement this season, such as his second place at the Candian Grand Prix and his two third places at the Bahrain and Hungarian Grand Prixs'.
Never-less, a good choice from Lotus to keep him as Kimi Räikkönen's team-mate next season and give the team an opportunity of winning the constructors championship next season.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
In my opinion not a surprise there, If I was the Lotus team I would have kept Romain Grosjean for another season at least. The Former GP2 champion does have the speed in Formula 1, but some of his first lap incidents and which includes an one-race ban at Monza early in the season too from the first lap Belgium Grand Prix incident has overshadowed some of his achievement this season, such as his second place at the Candian Grand Prix and his two third places at the Bahrain and Hungarian Grand Prixs'.
Never-less, a good choice from Lotus to keep him as Kimi Räikkönen's team-mate next season and give the team an opportunity of winning the constructors championship next season.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
2012 Race of Champions Review
The 25th annual running of Race of Champions took place over last weekend (14th–16th December) at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Germany team of three times Formula 1 World Champion current Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel and former seven times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher took their sixth consecutive Nations Cup victory ahead of France (Romain Grosjean and Sébastien Ogier was in the France team).
While in the 2012 Champion of Champions was won by Lotus F1 driver Romain Grosjean, who beat Le Mans Legend Tom Kristensen 2–0 in a closely fought final.
Contracts to the Champions for 2012.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
The Germany team of three times Formula 1 World Champion current Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel and former seven times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher took their sixth consecutive Nations Cup victory ahead of France (Romain Grosjean and Sébastien Ogier was in the France team).
While in the 2012 Champion of Champions was won by Lotus F1 driver Romain Grosjean, who beat Le Mans Legend Tom Kristensen 2–0 in a closely fought final.
Contracts to the Champions for 2012.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Monday, 17 December 2012
Part 2 of Formula 1 2012 Season Review (Top Formula 1 drivers of 2012 and final thoughts of Formula 1 2012)
Second part of my Formula 1 2012 Season Review, this post will includes my top 10 Formula 1 drivers of 2012. And my final thoughts of Formula 1 2012.
Starting of with My Top Formula 1 drivers of 2012, this is the part who was in my top 10 this season, not in championship order, not in championship order, so his list doesn't includes the likes of Romain Grosjean, Michael Schumacher or Pastor Maldonado for example for example, its just only opinion folks. So here is my list below.
My Top Formula 1 drivers of 2012:
1. Ferando Alonso (Ferrari) - Best driver on the grid this season despite not winning the F1 drivers championship and not having the best car on the grid.
2. Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull) - On form after Singapore, winning four races in a row to give Vettel his third world drivers title in a row.
3. Kimi Räikkonen (Lotus) -The return of the former champion back into F1, been constant throughout the season, won in Abu Dhabi, Kimi Raikkonen back in F1.
4. Lewis Hamilton (McLaren) - Still fast as ever, but still inconstant by the inconstantly of McLaren this season has cost Hamilton this seasons drivers championship, Mercedes beckons for Hamilton.
5. Mark Webber (Red Bull) - Won important races this season in Monaco and Silverstone, but the second half of the season has cost Mark Webber a shot of the drivers championship this season.
6. Jenson Button (McLaren) - Started well in Melbourne, mid-season blimp with poor luck and no luck with the Pirelli tyres has cost him a second drivers championship this season, but wins in Spa and Sao Paulo shows how much talent this driver is, team leader at McLaren for next season.
7. Felipe Massa (Ferrari) - Started poorly, then at Silverstone back on form, which includes a second place in Suzuka and possibly saved his job at Ferrari for another season.
8. Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) - Some great results this season at Shanghai and Monaco, but Mercedes inconstantly has cost Rosberg more points and big results this season, Hamilton will be his team-mate next season, needs to step up.
9. Sergio Pérez (Sauber)- Race pace is great as ever, when he uses old tyres for a one stop strategy to collect impressive points for the Sauber and could have won in Sepang and Monza if the race was longer, McLaren beckons for Perez in 2013.
10. Nico Hülkenberg (Force India) - Some great races from Hülkenberg this season, top 5s in Valencia, Spa and Sao Paulo, should have won in Sao Paulo, but overall a good season from Nico Hülkenberg.
Overall, possibly one of the best seasons I have seen in Formula 1, seven different winners in the first seven races and eight altogether this season, the races this year are great as-well, for example Sepang, Valencia, Abu Dhabi and Sao Paulo to name a few to give these races a bit of unpredictability. Also, Sebastian Vettel winning his third F1 drivers titles in a row and only two other drivers have done that achievement (Michael Schumacher and Juan Manuel Fangio name the others) another constructors championship from Red Bull. Fernando Alonso should have won the driver's title in my opionon, but never-less Sebastian Vettel is still a great champion to give another great season of Formula 1. Bring on Formula 1 2013.
End of the two part posts of this seasons F1 review. A new shorter post soon. Bye.
Starting of with My Top Formula 1 drivers of 2012, this is the part who was in my top 10 this season, not in championship order, not in championship order, so his list doesn't includes the likes of Romain Grosjean, Michael Schumacher or Pastor Maldonado for example for example, its just only opinion folks. So here is my list below.
My Top Formula 1 drivers of 2012:
1. Ferando Alonso (Ferrari) - Best driver on the grid this season despite not winning the F1 drivers championship and not having the best car on the grid.
2. Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull) - On form after Singapore, winning four races in a row to give Vettel his third world drivers title in a row.
3. Kimi Räikkonen (Lotus) -The return of the former champion back into F1, been constant throughout the season, won in Abu Dhabi, Kimi Raikkonen back in F1.
4. Lewis Hamilton (McLaren) - Still fast as ever, but still inconstant by the inconstantly of McLaren this season has cost Hamilton this seasons drivers championship, Mercedes beckons for Hamilton.
5. Mark Webber (Red Bull) - Won important races this season in Monaco and Silverstone, but the second half of the season has cost Mark Webber a shot of the drivers championship this season.
6. Jenson Button (McLaren) - Started well in Melbourne, mid-season blimp with poor luck and no luck with the Pirelli tyres has cost him a second drivers championship this season, but wins in Spa and Sao Paulo shows how much talent this driver is, team leader at McLaren for next season.
7. Felipe Massa (Ferrari) - Started poorly, then at Silverstone back on form, which includes a second place in Suzuka and possibly saved his job at Ferrari for another season.
8. Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) - Some great results this season at Shanghai and Monaco, but Mercedes inconstantly has cost Rosberg more points and big results this season, Hamilton will be his team-mate next season, needs to step up.
9. Sergio Pérez (Sauber)- Race pace is great as ever, when he uses old tyres for a one stop strategy to collect impressive points for the Sauber and could have won in Sepang and Monza if the race was longer, McLaren beckons for Perez in 2013.
10. Nico Hülkenberg (Force India) - Some great races from Hülkenberg this season, top 5s in Valencia, Spa and Sao Paulo, should have won in Sao Paulo, but overall a good season from Nico Hülkenberg.
Overall, possibly one of the best seasons I have seen in Formula 1, seven different winners in the first seven races and eight altogether this season, the races this year are great as-well, for example Sepang, Valencia, Abu Dhabi and Sao Paulo to name a few to give these races a bit of unpredictability. Also, Sebastian Vettel winning his third F1 drivers titles in a row and only two other drivers have done that achievement (Michael Schumacher and Juan Manuel Fangio name the others) another constructors championship from Red Bull. Fernando Alonso should have won the driver's title in my opionon, but never-less Sebastian Vettel is still a great champion to give another great season of Formula 1. Bring on Formula 1 2013.
End of the two part posts of this seasons F1 review. A new shorter post soon. Bye.
Sunday, 16 December 2012
Part 1 of Formula 1 2012 Season Review (the teams)
Two parter Formula One season review of the 2012 season. in this post I will review each team of 2012. Which, I will say one sentence that will be positive with each team. And one sentence that will be negative for each team. So starting with Red Bull below.
Red Bull:
+ Best car on the grid with the RB8, F1 car of the season to give Red Bull the constructors championship and Sebastian Vettel the drivers championship as-well.
- Red Bull alternator problems in Valencia and Monza almost cost the team and Sebastian Vettel both championships this season
Ferrari:
+ Best driver on the grid with Fernando Alonso, with one of the ugliest Ferrari F1 car ever, which gives some brilliant drives this from Alonso at Sepang, Valencia and Hockenheim.
- The Ferrari F2012 pace this season cost Ferrari and Fernando Alonso both championships this season in a few races this season.
McLaren:
+ Some great performances this season from both Lewis Hamilton (Montreal, Hungaroring, Monza and Austin) and Jenson Button (Melbourne, Spa and Sao Paulo).
- Speed, constantly and reliability of the McLaren MP4-27 cost McLaren the constructors championship and Lewis Hamilton the drivers championship this season.
Lotus:
+ The first time in 25 years by name that Lotus winning a race in Formula 1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with Kimi Raikkonen to give Lotus forth place in the constructors championship.
- Romain Grosjean crashes in races mid-season cost Lotus possibly a top three place in the constructors championship this season.
Mercedes:
+ Mercedes first win as a constructor since Juan Manuel Fangio won the 1955 Italian Grand Prix with Nico Rosberg at this seasons Chinese Grand Prix.
- Apart from Nico Rosbergs race win in China, a poor season from Mercedes, fifth place in the constructors championship this season, needs to improve next season with Lewis Hamilton.
Sauber:
+ Some impressive races from both Kamui Kobayashi and Sergio Pérez this season that could gives Sauber sixth place in the constructors championship.
- After he was signed up to McLaren in 2013 next season, Sergio Pérez hasn't scored points since Suzuka, that costs Sauber a possibility of fifth place in the constructors championship.
Force India:
+ Both Paul di Resta and Nico Hülkenberg are showing some great race performances this season showed why they are in Formula 1.
- VJM05 lacked all-round pace to give great results for the team this season to give them a possibility of sixth place in the constructors championship for Force India.
Williams:
+ A better car and year from last season, which gives Pastor Maldonado a famous race win at Barcelona for Williams Renault.
- Pastor Maldonado has cost Williams too many points this season that the team had a possibility of having a chance of a top five finish in the constructors championship this season, only crum of comfort was the constantly of Bruno Senna scoring points this season.
Scuderia Toro Rosso:
+ Both Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Éric Vergne are showing why they are in Formula 1 with some decent performances and why they are in Formula 1 next season
- STR7 is showing why both drivers isn't competitive this season with only 22 points this season.
Caterham:
+ Some impressive race performances from both Heikki Kovalainen (Monaco and Valencia) and Vitaly Petrov (Sepang, Valencia and Sao Paulo) gives Caterham tenth place in the constructors championship.
- Caterham have improved their performance to catch up with the midfield teams this season, but not close enough to catch up with the midfield teams above.
Marussia:
+ Some impressive race performances in Singapore (Timo Glock 12th place) and Sao Paulo (Charles Pic 12th place) to give Marussia some confidence for 2013.
- Despite Marussia have got a wind-tunnel now to develop their car this season, but they are not catching up the likes of the midfield teams yet, or not even the likes of Caterham race in - race out, but there will be improvements for the team for 2013.
HRT:
+ Despite his only 41, but Pedro de la Rosa is still showing how pace-full his still got for HRT this season.
- Poor management has cost HRT a place in Formula 1 for 2013 and possibly forever in Formula 1.
In part 2 of Formula 1 2012 Season Review my top 10 Formula 1 drivers of 2012. And my final thoughts of Formula 1 2012.
But for now, end of post for now. A new post soon. Bye.
Red Bull:
+ Best car on the grid with the RB8, F1 car of the season to give Red Bull the constructors championship and Sebastian Vettel the drivers championship as-well.
- Red Bull alternator problems in Valencia and Monza almost cost the team and Sebastian Vettel both championships this season
Ferrari:
+ Best driver on the grid with Fernando Alonso, with one of the ugliest Ferrari F1 car ever, which gives some brilliant drives this from Alonso at Sepang, Valencia and Hockenheim.
- The Ferrari F2012 pace this season cost Ferrari and Fernando Alonso both championships this season in a few races this season.
McLaren:
+ Some great performances this season from both Lewis Hamilton (Montreal, Hungaroring, Monza and Austin) and Jenson Button (Melbourne, Spa and Sao Paulo).
- Speed, constantly and reliability of the McLaren MP4-27 cost McLaren the constructors championship and Lewis Hamilton the drivers championship this season.
Lotus:
+ The first time in 25 years by name that Lotus winning a race in Formula 1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with Kimi Raikkonen to give Lotus forth place in the constructors championship.
- Romain Grosjean crashes in races mid-season cost Lotus possibly a top three place in the constructors championship this season.
Mercedes:
+ Mercedes first win as a constructor since Juan Manuel Fangio won the 1955 Italian Grand Prix with Nico Rosberg at this seasons Chinese Grand Prix.
- Apart from Nico Rosbergs race win in China, a poor season from Mercedes, fifth place in the constructors championship this season, needs to improve next season with Lewis Hamilton.
Sauber:
+ Some impressive races from both Kamui Kobayashi and Sergio Pérez this season that could gives Sauber sixth place in the constructors championship.
- After he was signed up to McLaren in 2013 next season, Sergio Pérez hasn't scored points since Suzuka, that costs Sauber a possibility of fifth place in the constructors championship.
Force India:
+ Both Paul di Resta and Nico Hülkenberg are showing some great race performances this season showed why they are in Formula 1.
- VJM05 lacked all-round pace to give great results for the team this season to give them a possibility of sixth place in the constructors championship for Force India.
Williams:
+ A better car and year from last season, which gives Pastor Maldonado a famous race win at Barcelona for Williams Renault.
- Pastor Maldonado has cost Williams too many points this season that the team had a possibility of having a chance of a top five finish in the constructors championship this season, only crum of comfort was the constantly of Bruno Senna scoring points this season.
Scuderia Toro Rosso:
+ Both Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Éric Vergne are showing why they are in Formula 1 with some decent performances and why they are in Formula 1 next season
- STR7 is showing why both drivers isn't competitive this season with only 22 points this season.
Caterham:
+ Some impressive race performances from both Heikki Kovalainen (Monaco and Valencia) and Vitaly Petrov (Sepang, Valencia and Sao Paulo) gives Caterham tenth place in the constructors championship.
- Caterham have improved their performance to catch up with the midfield teams this season, but not close enough to catch up with the midfield teams above.
Marussia:
+ Some impressive race performances in Singapore (Timo Glock 12th place) and Sao Paulo (Charles Pic 12th place) to give Marussia some confidence for 2013.
- Despite Marussia have got a wind-tunnel now to develop their car this season, but they are not catching up the likes of the midfield teams yet, or not even the likes of Caterham race in - race out, but there will be improvements for the team for 2013.
HRT:
+ Despite his only 41, but Pedro de la Rosa is still showing how pace-full his still got for HRT this season.
- Poor management has cost HRT a place in Formula 1 for 2013 and possibly forever in Formula 1.
In part 2 of Formula 1 2012 Season Review my top 10 Formula 1 drivers of 2012. And my final thoughts of Formula 1 2012.
But for now, end of post for now. A new post soon. Bye.
Saturday, 15 December 2012
Top six Colin Chapman Team Lotus F1 cars
It's been 30 years this weekend that Colin Chapman who was the founder of Lotus Cars and Team Lotus has passed away from a heart attack, despite he was only 54 years old. For this post, similar to the Adrian Newey post a few weeks back, a top six F1 cars designed by Colin Chapman for Team Lotus. This will be interesting post as-well, Chapman only done 25 years in Formula 1 until his death, similar to Newey who have also done 25 years in designing F1 cars, it will be an interesting comparing both posts, starting with:
Number 6: 1982 Lotus 91
Story: The last Formula 1 car that was designed under Colin Chapman. The Lotus 91 was the last Colin Chapman car that won in Formula 1 and the last time the famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 won with Team Lotus as-well, at the 1982 Austrian Grand Prix in the hands of Elio de Angelis, 0.050 seconds ahead of Williams driver Keke Rosberg at the end. But, the first Lotus chassis ever to use all carbon fibre chassis F1 car.
Number 5: 1961 Lotus 21
Story: Team Lotus first F1 win in Formula 1 and Colin Chapman's first F1 win at the 1961 United States Grand Prix in hands of Innes Ireland. The Lotus 21 was powered by a 1.5 litre 4-cylinder Coventry Climax FPF engine.
NOTE: Lotus 18 did won the 1960 and 1961 Monaco Grand Prix, 1960 United States Grand Prix and 1961 Geramn Grand Prix in the hands of Stirling Moss. But for Rob Walker Racing Team and not Team Lotus. So that is why the Lotus 18 will not be included in this list.
Number 4: 1978 Lotus 79
Story: A surprise for the Lotus 79 to be number 1 a good reason why was the other Team Lotus F1 cars who were number 3-1 had more dominants and more achievements compared to the Lotus 79. Lotus was the first F1 car to take full advantage of ground effects aerodynamics, pioneered in its immediate predecessor, the Lotus 78 which started the ground effect movement. Had the famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 underneath the Lotus 79. To give Mario Andretti the 1978 F1 drivers championship and the F1 constructors championship for Team Lotus, Colin Chapman's and Team Lotus's last divers and constructors championships.
Number 3: 1962 Lotus 25
Story: The Lotus 25 was a revolutionary design created by Colin Chapman, the first fully stressed monocoque chassis to appear in F1. The Lotus 25 was powered by a 1.5 litre 4-cylinder Coventry Climax FPF engine. The Lotus 25 took Jim Clark to his 1963 Formula 1 world drivers championships and Team Lotus to the 1963 F1 constructors championships as-well. Colin Chapman's and Team Lotus's first drivers and constructors championship.
Number 2: 1967 Lotus 49
Story:The Lotus 49 was the first F1 car to be powered by the now-famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 engine after Chapman convinced Ford to build an F1 powerplant with the help from Cosworth. The Lotus 49 was designed around the Cosworth DFV engine and was the first successful Formula One car to feature the engine as a structural member of the chassis. Jim Clark won on the car's debut in 1967, and it would also provide him with the last win of his career in 1968. Graham Hill went on to win the 1968 F1 drivers title and the constructors championship as-well for Team Lotus that year. The Lotus 49 continued winning races until 1970.
Number 1: 1970 Lotus 72
Story: Lotus 72 will be possibly the best Lotus car that have been F1. The Lotus 72 was yet another innovative design by Colin Chapman featuring inboard brakes, side mounted radiators in sidepods, as opposed to the nose mounted radiators which had been commonplace since the 1950s and an overhead air intake. The Lotus 72 has the famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 underneath the Lotus 79. Which, gives Jochen Rindt the 1970 F1 drivers title, Emerson Fittipaldi the 1972 F1 drivers title and Team Lotus the 1970, 1972 and 1973 F1 constructors titles. The Lotus 72 continue winning races until 1974 and kept on racing till 1975. That is why this is the best Colin Chapman F1 Team Lotus car ever designed.
Colin Chapman legacy still continues at Lotus today, 30 years after his death.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Number 6: 1982 Lotus 91
Story: The last Formula 1 car that was designed under Colin Chapman. The Lotus 91 was the last Colin Chapman car that won in Formula 1 and the last time the famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 won with Team Lotus as-well, at the 1982 Austrian Grand Prix in the hands of Elio de Angelis, 0.050 seconds ahead of Williams driver Keke Rosberg at the end. But, the first Lotus chassis ever to use all carbon fibre chassis F1 car.
Number 5: 1961 Lotus 21
Story: Team Lotus first F1 win in Formula 1 and Colin Chapman's first F1 win at the 1961 United States Grand Prix in hands of Innes Ireland. The Lotus 21 was powered by a 1.5 litre 4-cylinder Coventry Climax FPF engine.
NOTE: Lotus 18 did won the 1960 and 1961 Monaco Grand Prix, 1960 United States Grand Prix and 1961 Geramn Grand Prix in the hands of Stirling Moss. But for Rob Walker Racing Team and not Team Lotus. So that is why the Lotus 18 will not be included in this list.
Number 4: 1978 Lotus 79
Story: A surprise for the Lotus 79 to be number 1 a good reason why was the other Team Lotus F1 cars who were number 3-1 had more dominants and more achievements compared to the Lotus 79. Lotus was the first F1 car to take full advantage of ground effects aerodynamics, pioneered in its immediate predecessor, the Lotus 78 which started the ground effect movement. Had the famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 underneath the Lotus 79. To give Mario Andretti the 1978 F1 drivers championship and the F1 constructors championship for Team Lotus, Colin Chapman's and Team Lotus's last divers and constructors championships.
Number 3: 1962 Lotus 25
Story: The Lotus 25 was a revolutionary design created by Colin Chapman, the first fully stressed monocoque chassis to appear in F1. The Lotus 25 was powered by a 1.5 litre 4-cylinder Coventry Climax FPF engine. The Lotus 25 took Jim Clark to his 1963 Formula 1 world drivers championships and Team Lotus to the 1963 F1 constructors championships as-well. Colin Chapman's and Team Lotus's first drivers and constructors championship.
Number 2: 1967 Lotus 49
Story:The Lotus 49 was the first F1 car to be powered by the now-famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 engine after Chapman convinced Ford to build an F1 powerplant with the help from Cosworth. The Lotus 49 was designed around the Cosworth DFV engine and was the first successful Formula One car to feature the engine as a structural member of the chassis. Jim Clark won on the car's debut in 1967, and it would also provide him with the last win of his career in 1968. Graham Hill went on to win the 1968 F1 drivers title and the constructors championship as-well for Team Lotus that year. The Lotus 49 continued winning races until 1970.
Number 1: 1970 Lotus 72
Story: Lotus 72 will be possibly the best Lotus car that have been F1. The Lotus 72 was yet another innovative design by Colin Chapman featuring inboard brakes, side mounted radiators in sidepods, as opposed to the nose mounted radiators which had been commonplace since the 1950s and an overhead air intake. The Lotus 72 has the famous Cosworth DFV 3 litre V8 underneath the Lotus 79. Which, gives Jochen Rindt the 1970 F1 drivers title, Emerson Fittipaldi the 1972 F1 drivers title and Team Lotus the 1970, 1972 and 1973 F1 constructors titles. The Lotus 72 continue winning races until 1974 and kept on racing till 1975. That is why this is the best Colin Chapman F1 Team Lotus car ever designed.
Colin Chapman legacy still continues at Lotus today, 30 years after his death.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Saturday, 8 December 2012
Sebastien Loab new timetable for 2013
Sebastien Loeb will compete in just four WRC events next year with the Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team. Confirmation came on Thursday (6/12/12) following Citroen unveiled its new livery for the 2013 FIA World Rally Championship and its 2013 line-up as-well in Abu Dhabi.
The nine times WRC champion programme will include the season opener at Rallye Monte Carlo in January, and it has also now been revealed that he will do Rally Sweden in February and Rallye de France in October. The fourth event has still yet to be confirmed, although Rally Argentina is thought likely.
Also, been confirmed that Sebastien Loeb will be contesting next year's GT Sprint Series in a McLaren MP4-12C GT3 which will be run by his own Sebastien Loeb Racing team. As-well as that, he will also preparing for Citroen's proposed entry to the World Touring Car Championship in 2014 with the C4.
Also this week (4/12/12), 2003 WRC Champion and 2012 works Ford driver Petter Solberg confirmed that he would sit out of the WRC 2013 season, after he can not find a full-time drive for the 2013 season. But, there are rumours that Petter Solberg could develop and drive with Hyundai, with the new i20 WRC rally car competing in selected events in 2013, ahead of a full championship campaign in 2014.
End of an era in WRC, we gonna have a new WRC champion in 2013 for sure.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
The nine times WRC champion programme will include the season opener at Rallye Monte Carlo in January, and it has also now been revealed that he will do Rally Sweden in February and Rallye de France in October. The fourth event has still yet to be confirmed, although Rally Argentina is thought likely.
Also, been confirmed that Sebastien Loeb will be contesting next year's GT Sprint Series in a McLaren MP4-12C GT3 which will be run by his own Sebastien Loeb Racing team. As-well as that, he will also preparing for Citroen's proposed entry to the World Touring Car Championship in 2014 with the C4.
Also this week (4/12/12), 2003 WRC Champion and 2012 works Ford driver Petter Solberg confirmed that he would sit out of the WRC 2013 season, after he can not find a full-time drive for the 2013 season. But, there are rumours that Petter Solberg could develop and drive with Hyundai, with the new i20 WRC rally car competing in selected events in 2013, ahead of a full championship campaign in 2014.
End of an era in WRC, we gonna have a new WRC champion in 2013 for sure.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
Alex Zanardi back in a racing car
First time since his double Paralympics Gold at London 2012 games, Alex Zanardi is driving the BMW M3 DTM at the Nurburgring. On the 3.629km spec Nurburgring track (not full grand prix track, but the indy circuit if you can call it), Zanardi done 32 laps in his hand control-spec M3. He tested the M3 few weeks back as this youtube video shows Zanardi driving around the Nurburgring.
There are rumours that Alex Zanardi may drive the M3 DTM spec in next seasons DTM champion. If this does happen, this will be the first time we will see him in a racing series since 2009 in the World Touring Car Championship, he won races for BMW Italy-Spain in that between 2004 and 2009, so you got a race winner there too.
In my opionon, this could be good for the DTM series and good for motorsport in general, if the rumours does happen. If not, Alex Zanardi had a taste of driving a BMW M3 DTM car for one day.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
There are rumours that Alex Zanardi may drive the M3 DTM spec in next seasons DTM champion. If this does happen, this will be the first time we will see him in a racing series since 2009 in the World Touring Car Championship, he won races for BMW Italy-Spain in that between 2004 and 2009, so you got a race winner there too.
In my opionon, this could be good for the DTM series and good for motorsport in general, if the rumours does happen. If not, Alex Zanardi had a taste of driving a BMW M3 DTM car for one day.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Monday, 3 December 2012
Kimi Räikkonen getting lost with Apple Maps
Despite he finished a lap down in 10th place at the Brazilian Grand Prix last weekend. Kimi Räikkonen is the star of a hilarious spoof video on YouTube (video below) which takes the mickey out of his bizarre excursion during the Brazilian Grand Prix. The 2007 F1 World Champion sped along a service road after sliding off the Interlagos track. He was convinced it would lead him back to the circuit, only to find a gate he thought would be open was closed.
What the creator of this video did was add some signs above onto the on-board footage of Kimi’s wacky little trip which also added with the infamous “l know what I’m doing” radio messages he sent to his engineer during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from four weeks ago to make this video below shows.
Personally, if Apple does ads with maps, their is nothing better than this one above, and funny too.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
What the creator of this video did was add some signs above onto the on-board footage of Kimi’s wacky little trip which also added with the infamous “l know what I’m doing” radio messages he sent to his engineer during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from four weeks ago to make this video below shows.
Personally, if Apple does ads with maps, their is nothing better than this one above, and funny too.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Sunday, 2 December 2012
Game Over for HRT in F1
HRT Formula 1 team looks set to close down after failing to find a buyer before the FIA's deadline for 2013 entries on Friday (30/11/12). The team was absent from the 22-car entry list published by the FIA on Saturday (1/12/12). It will be the first F1 team to close down since Super Aguri's in mid-2008.
The team had been put up for sale by their owners since before the United States Grand Prix. Attempts were made to find a buyer before the entry deadline. Even rumours that Chinese company Chery Automobile among those involved in talks to save HRT.
Personally, I think this is both sad and good news for Formula 1. Mostly sad, because you've got a team leaving F1 that means down to 22 drivers, 11 teams not a lot of opportunity for drivers and mechanics now with the grid reduced. I Also, think the F1 fans do love the underdog teams, which includes myself with the teams like Minardi, Super Aguri and Marussia. However, I think it's also good news too for Formula 1, sometimes their cars were often too slow for Formula 1, expressly when both cars don't qualify for the first race of the season (Australian Grand Prix 2011 and 2012). Anyway, a sad day when any team leaves Formula one.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
The team had been put up for sale by their owners since before the United States Grand Prix. Attempts were made to find a buyer before the entry deadline. Even rumours that Chinese company Chery Automobile among those involved in talks to save HRT.
Personally, I think this is both sad and good news for Formula 1. Mostly sad, because you've got a team leaving F1 that means down to 22 drivers, 11 teams not a lot of opportunity for drivers and mechanics now with the grid reduced. I Also, think the F1 fans do love the underdog teams, which includes myself with the teams like Minardi, Super Aguri and Marussia. However, I think it's also good news too for Formula 1, sometimes their cars were often too slow for Formula 1, expressly when both cars don't qualify for the first race of the season (Australian Grand Prix 2011 and 2012). Anyway, a sad day when any team leaves Formula one.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Saturday, 1 December 2012
Top six Adrian Newey F1 cars
It's been 25 years since Adrian Newey has been designing Formula One cars. And last week, Adrian Newey latest F1 car he designed the Red Bull RB8 won the F1 contractors championship with Red Bull once again at the United States Grand Prix and won the drivers championship for Sebastian Vettel for a third time in a row this season. To celebrate the last 25 years of Adrian Newey designing formula one cars, a top six F1 cars designed by Adrian Newey.
Number 6: 1988 March 881
Story: Basically the first F1 car that Adrian Newey has designed. The March 881 had a Judd 3.5 litre V8 underneath. The team finished 6th in the contractors championship with 22 points. Which included a third place each for Ivan Capelli and Maurício Gugelmin. And a second place for Ivan Capelli at the 1988 Portuguese Grand Prix, 10 seconds behind Alain Prost's MP4-4 Turbo Honda. And the only car in this top six that doesn't have a race win or F1 constructor championship with its glory.
Youtube video below of Jackie Stewart driving the March 881 with some opinions of it.
Number 5: 1998 McLaren MP4-13
Story: The last time McLaren have won the F1 constructors championship was with this car the McLaren MP4-13. This was Adrian Newey first F1 car design since leaving Williams at the start of 1997 season. The car had a Mercedes 3.0 litre V10 underneath. It won the F1 constructors championship in 1998. Also, David Coulthard won a grand prix in that car and Mika Hakkinen won eight grand prixs that season to concluded with the 1998 F1 drivers championship for Hakkinen.
Youtube video below of Mika Hakkinen driving the MP4-13 at Suzuka to his first F1 world drivers championship.
Number 4: 2010 Red Bull RB6
Story: The car that won Red Bull its first ever F1 constructors championship for the team and won four grand prixs for Mark Webber and five grand prixs for Sebastian Vettel to concluded with the 1998 F1 drivers championship for Vettel. Also Vettel named his RB6 "Luscious Liz" and then later with a new chassis called "Randy Mandy". Underneath the RB6 a Renault 2.4 litre V8 to win those championships.
Number 3: 1996 Williams FW18
Story: The FW18 was powered by a 3.0 litre Renault V10 engine. The FW18 was designed by Adrian Newey and Patrick Head. The FW18 took Williams the 1996 F1 constructors championship were Jacques Villeneuve took four wins that season. While, Damon Hill took eight wins and the 1996 F1 drivers championship title as-well, making Damon Hill the first son of a World Champion to become a Champion himself.
Youtube video below of Damon Hill with the FW18 at Suzuka winning the race and the F1 drivers championship as-well.
Number 2: 2011 Red Bull RB7
Story: The RB7 took Mark Webber a race win in that car. While, Sebastian Vettel took eleven grand prixs and fifteen poles that season to concluded with his second F1 drivers championship for Vettel. Underneath the RB7 a Renault 2.4 litre V8 that too Red Bull's second F1 constructors title.
Number 1: Williams FW14B
Story: This is possibly the best F1 car that Adrian Newey has ever designed. The FW14B was designed by Adrian Newey and Patrick Head. The FW14B was powered by a 3.5 litre V10 Renault engine, the Williams FW14B was the most technically sophisticated car on the grid in 1992. By 1992 the FW14B featured a semi automatic gearbox, active suspension, traction control and for a brief period anti-lock brakes which took Williams fifteen poles, ten grand prix wins that season and a F1 constructors championship as-well. Which, Riccardo Patrese took a pole and a grand prix win. While, Nigel Mansell took fourteen poles and nine grand prix wins to concluded with the 1992 F1 drivers championship for Nigel Mansell and his only one as-well. And that's my is my number one car that Adrian Newey has designed in Formula One.
Youtube video below of Nigel Mansell taking the FW14B a famous win at Silverstone.
Many more years of Adrian Newey designing F1 cars.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Number 6: 1988 March 881
Story: Basically the first F1 car that Adrian Newey has designed. The March 881 had a Judd 3.5 litre V8 underneath. The team finished 6th in the contractors championship with 22 points. Which included a third place each for Ivan Capelli and Maurício Gugelmin. And a second place for Ivan Capelli at the 1988 Portuguese Grand Prix, 10 seconds behind Alain Prost's MP4-4 Turbo Honda. And the only car in this top six that doesn't have a race win or F1 constructor championship with its glory.
Youtube video below of Jackie Stewart driving the March 881 with some opinions of it.
Number 5: 1998 McLaren MP4-13
Story: The last time McLaren have won the F1 constructors championship was with this car the McLaren MP4-13. This was Adrian Newey first F1 car design since leaving Williams at the start of 1997 season. The car had a Mercedes 3.0 litre V10 underneath. It won the F1 constructors championship in 1998. Also, David Coulthard won a grand prix in that car and Mika Hakkinen won eight grand prixs that season to concluded with the 1998 F1 drivers championship for Hakkinen.
Youtube video below of Mika Hakkinen driving the MP4-13 at Suzuka to his first F1 world drivers championship.
Number 4: 2010 Red Bull RB6
Story: The car that won Red Bull its first ever F1 constructors championship for the team and won four grand prixs for Mark Webber and five grand prixs for Sebastian Vettel to concluded with the 1998 F1 drivers championship for Vettel. Also Vettel named his RB6 "Luscious Liz" and then later with a new chassis called "Randy Mandy". Underneath the RB6 a Renault 2.4 litre V8 to win those championships.
Number 3: 1996 Williams FW18
Story: The FW18 was powered by a 3.0 litre Renault V10 engine. The FW18 was designed by Adrian Newey and Patrick Head. The FW18 took Williams the 1996 F1 constructors championship were Jacques Villeneuve took four wins that season. While, Damon Hill took eight wins and the 1996 F1 drivers championship title as-well, making Damon Hill the first son of a World Champion to become a Champion himself.
Youtube video below of Damon Hill with the FW18 at Suzuka winning the race and the F1 drivers championship as-well.
Number 2: 2011 Red Bull RB7
Story: The RB7 took Mark Webber a race win in that car. While, Sebastian Vettel took eleven grand prixs and fifteen poles that season to concluded with his second F1 drivers championship for Vettel. Underneath the RB7 a Renault 2.4 litre V8 that too Red Bull's second F1 constructors title.
Number 1: Williams FW14B
Story: This is possibly the best F1 car that Adrian Newey has ever designed. The FW14B was designed by Adrian Newey and Patrick Head. The FW14B was powered by a 3.5 litre V10 Renault engine, the Williams FW14B was the most technically sophisticated car on the grid in 1992. By 1992 the FW14B featured a semi automatic gearbox, active suspension, traction control and for a brief period anti-lock brakes which took Williams fifteen poles, ten grand prix wins that season and a F1 constructors championship as-well. Which, Riccardo Patrese took a pole and a grand prix win. While, Nigel Mansell took fourteen poles and nine grand prix wins to concluded with the 1992 F1 drivers championship for Nigel Mansell and his only one as-well. And that's my is my number one car that Adrian Newey has designed in Formula One.
Youtube video below of Nigel Mansell taking the FW14B a famous win at Silverstone.
Many more years of Adrian Newey designing F1 cars.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
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