The project, which goes by the code number 655, represents a further evolution of the concepts already seen in the F2003-GA. However, every element of the car has been completely redesigned in an attempt to create the best environment to get the most out of the new 053 engine and the Bridgestone tyres. The aerodynamic configuration has been fine tuned in the light of changes to the technical regulations, improving the efficiency of the package. Furthermore the car boasts a lower centre of gravity, while weight distribution has been improved as regards the chassis and the engine.
The chassis is new, both in terms of design and construction. Its weight has been reduced and it has an improved structure when compared with the F2003-GA. The bodywork, exhausts and the rear end have been redesigned, producing an improvement in aerodynamic performance. The front and rear suspension has been revised in order to improve the vehicle's dynamic handling which leads to a greater efficiency in terms of getting the most out of the Bridgestone tyres, while also optimising the performance of the aerodynamic package. New materials have been used in the engine and transmission in order to reduce its size and weight. Modifications to the sporting regulations regarding the number of engines that can be used in the course of a Grand Prix weekend set new targets for the 053 engine design project: achieving the optimum reliability level, even though engine life now has to be double that in the past, while striving to improve performance. Once again the engine is a stressed member and is mounted longitudinally. Shell has played an important role in the research and design of the 053 and in terms of reaching the performance and reliability targets, coming up with new fuel and lubricants.
The transmission is once again mounted longitudinally to maintain the same layout as on the F2003-GA. It is a completely new design, providing a reduction in size and weight. The titanium gearbox has seven speeds (plus reverse) and, because of changes to the technical regulations, is operated directly by the driver. In keeping with a trend initiated by Ferrari back in 1997, which is now standard Formula 1 practice, the car features high-level exhausts, but compared with previous versions, they are mounted nearer the car's centre line.
The F2004 represents a further step forward in the history of Ferrari's single seaters. A great deal of time and attention was paid to making the most of the new materials and to optimising the various design stages as well as the quality control methods, all aimed at improving overall reliability and performance while making the car as safe as possible.
Company press release, last updated before 12 / 01 / 2004
With the gap between the big three getting ever narrower and the mid-field teams going faster every year will Michael Schumacher be able to clinch an astounding seventh world championship? Will the tire war heat up again this year like last year with Michelin dominating over their Bridgestone rivals? This is certainly going to be a very interesting season. Schu already beat the lap record at Ferrari's private test track at Fiorano by dipping into the 55s lap times on Sunday (Feb 1 '04) by over a quarter of a second. Even though it is just an evolution of last years car the F2004 looks ready to take on the new Willams FW26 and the McLaren MP4/19.
Probably a winner
Drake 1-2-2004
Mr. twinspark, I believe we cant judge quite yet who will be the fastest. Everything except the chassis has been completely redesigned on the F2004, so dont be fooled by looks. It broke the Fiorano track record in only its 2nd test. Schumacher (on a F2003GA with some F2004 parts) and Montoya exchanged track records in a recent test. Essentially we have 3 first year cars among the top teams, so its hard to tell right now. I do agree Mclaren and expecially BMW.Williams seem to be much faster, as shown by many winter tests. Tyrewise, I remind you Bridgestone was catching up a bit at the end of the 2003 season. I also think that another year (3rd?) of having Bridgestone all for themselves will allow Ferrari to compensate even more for their tyre's lack of performance. I think another factor people often overlook is the regulation change on motors. When a Ferrari motor blows up it almost feels like an historic event, so with the added reliability needed this year my guess would be that Ferrari will have an edge in that department. Anyway, just like last year, it will come down to the tyres. I think that unless BMW.Williams has a dominant car, it will be an epic battle between Raikkonen and Schumacher this year. I cant believe how fast the fin was on a 3rd year car, making Coulthard look like a newbie! Now if only Mclaren could come out of their bunker and do some tests so that I can make my pick.
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The project, which goes by the code number 655, represents a further evolution of the concepts already seen in the F2003-GA. However, every element of the car has been completely redesigned in an attempt to create the best environment to get the most out of the new 053 engine and the Bridgestone tyres. The aerodynamic configuration has been fine tuned in the light of changes to the technical regulations, improving the efficiency of the package. Furthermore the car boasts a lower centre of gravity, while weight distribution has been improved as regards the chassis and the engine.
