What makes the Ferrari particularly strong is the acceleration, not really the top speed. Yes, they often stand out regarding top speed, but some midfield teams regularly do that as well.dans79 wrote: ↑Tue Oct 01, 2019 10:51 pmzibby43 wrote: ↑Tue Oct 01, 2019 7:49 pmYep. I don't think Mercedes have started down a different route . . . yet.
Suzuka will be a big test for Merc and Ferrari. It is packed with the types of corners that Ferrari have struggled with at circuits like Barcelona, Paul Ricard, Silverstone, and the Hungaroring. If Ferrari suddenly goes well there, Merc may have to think about a much more efficient car for 2020.
If Merc reign supreme at Suzuka, then knowing how the W10 performed at a vast majority of the less power-sensitive tracks, I wouldn't expect a huge departure, rather an evolution of the W10 with perhaps less "dirty" downforce.
One of the things I've often wondered this season, is if it could be something as simple as gear ratios. Gear ratios are locked in for the entire season if memory serves. If Merc had runner slightly longer gears maybe they wouldn't have the strait line speed deficit to Ferrari.
Longer gear ratios would make the Mercedes accelerate slower, wouldn't it?