Last Sunday's Belgian grand prix was the first time the new 'power unit' era proved faster than the screaming V8-powered machines of 2013. So far this year, the turbo V6s - combined with lower downforce and heavier cars - have proved at least several seconds slower than the pace of the past.
But at Spa-Francorchamps, the fastest lap on Sunday - achieved by championship leader Nico Rosberg - was two tenths quicker than the corresponding race of 2013, won by champion Sebastian Vettel. An analysis by the German specialist magazine Auto Motor und Sport shows why.
First, aerodynamics plays a lesser role at Spa, where the more powerful turbo 'power units' of 2014 resulted in an average of 20+kph more top speed than the 2013-spec V8s on the long straights. And the cornering deficit in 2014 was minimised at Spa last weekend, with Pirelli bringing the soft and medium compounds to Belgium compared to the medium and hard choice of last year. (GMM)
2014 Spa race pace two tenths faster than last year
- Published on 29 Aug 2014 11:58
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- By: Rob Veenstra
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Formula 1 Calendar - 2026
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Formula 1 Calendar - 2026
Date
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Spain
Circuit de Catalunya
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Bahrain
Bahrain International Circuit
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Bahrain International Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia
Albert Park
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Gilles Villeneuve
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Red Bull Ring
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Silverstone
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Belgium
Spa-Francorchamps
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Hungary
Hungaroring
21 - Aug 23
Netherlands
Circuit Zandvoort
Driver profile
- Team -
- Points -
- Podiums -
- Grand Prix -
- Country DE
- Date of b. Jun 27 1985 (41)
- Place of b. Wiesbaden, DE
- Weight 71 kg
- Length 1.78 m
4 members have this team as their favourite
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- Team name Pirelli
- Base - Italy
- 37,476 comments on Pirelli
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