At first sight, the Minardi PS04B looks outwardly similar to the 2003 PS03, which is unsurprising given the current stability of Formula One technical regulations. The basic 'architecture' of most teams' cars remains largely unchanged for the 2004 season, although FIA-mandated modifications relating to the dimensions of the engine cover and rear wing end plates have been taken into consideration.
A closer examination of Minardi's new car, however, reveals a wealth of detail change compared with its immediate predecessor, particularly in the area of aerodynamics. Among the major differences are new bodywork, floor, diffuser and front wing, as well as the required alterations to the engine cover and rear wing. The team, in combination with technical partner, Magneti Marelli, has also spent considerable time since the end of the 2003 season developing and improving its on-board electronic systems, and in particular, control software relating to the engine, gearbox and clutch.
On paper, the mechanical layout of the PS04B remains similar to that of its predecessor, with double-wishbone suspension at all four corners of the car employing pushrod-activated rockers working on compact torsion springs. In addition, mechanical anti-roll bars are fitted front and rear. Also retained for 2004 is the 72-degree, Cosworth CR3 V10 - this season, in 'L' (long-distance) specification - acting as a fully stressed member in the chassis. It is mated to a further development of Minardi's innovative, titanium-cased, six-speed semi-automatic gearbox. This compact, longitudinally mounted unit was developed by Minardi staff in collaboration with titanium casting experts, CRP Technology.
The 2004 Minardi ran for the first time at Misano's Autodromo Santamonica in the second week of February, displaying exemplary reliability in the hands of both Zsolt Baumgartner and Gianmaria Bruni. With further successful pre-season testing completed subsequently, the Minardi F1 Team once again approaches the start of a new Formula One World Championship season in a mood of optimism, but tempered with the realism borne of experience.
Company press release, last updated before 12 / 01 / 2004
Hi. This car is 3 years behind all the others. Its engine is a Ford Cosworth designed 3 years ago. Other F1 teams have a budget of 100-200 million dollars per year (Toyota: 400+ and Bill Gates will add more) but Minardi has 40 million for a year. This would be enough to do the shopping, but when an engine costs you as much as an Enzo... Last time this team got a championship point was in 2000 (that rainy-chaotic Australian GP). But on the 21st of June 2004 Zsolt Baumgartner achieved an 8th spot in Indianapolis. Okay he didn't overtake anybody, they just retired, but in fact he is one of the most reliable drivers. It's not an easy job to find out how he would perform in a better car. Probably next year... With this point he earned the team a lot of money (FIA will pay their transportation costs) and great pride to Hungary. Thank you, Zsolt.
General specifications
Country of origin
Italy
Numbers built
N/A
Produced in
2004
Engine
Configuration
Cosworth C3L 72º V10
Location
Mid, longitudinally mounted
Construction
aluminium alloy block and head
Displacement
2.998 liter / 182.9 cu in
Valvetrain
4 valves / cylinder, DOHC
Fuel feed
Fuel Injection
Aspiration
Naturally Aspirated
Drivetrain
Chassis
carbon fibre and aluminium honeycomb composite monocoque
Suspension (fr/r)
double wishbones, push-rod operated torsion springs and dampers, mechanical anti-roll bar
Steering
rack-and-pinion, power assisted
Brakes
Hitco/Brembo ventilated carbon discs, all-round
Gearbox
Minardi 6 speed Sequential
Drive
Rear wheel drive
Dimensions
Weight
600 kilo / 1322.8 lbs
Length / Width / Height
4548 mm (179.1 in) / 1800 mm (70.9 in) / N/A
Wheelbase / Track (fr/r)
3097 mm (121.9 in) / 1480 mm (58.3 in) / 1410 mm (55.5 in)
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At first sight, the Minardi PS04B looks outwardly similar to the 2003 PS03, which is unsurprising given the current stability of Formula One technical regulations. The basic 'architecture' of most teams' cars remains largely unchanged for the 2004 season, although FIA-mandated modifications relating to the dimensions of the engine cover and rear wing end plates have been taken into consideration.
