Mercedes is backing up with oil: That's why Ferrari has the most powerful engine

S The test drives in winter have shown it. Mercedes has lost its supremacy when it comes to engines. GPS measurements showed that Ferrari has caught up with Mercedes in terms of engine performance. Mercedes was able to 'only' keep the performance of its engines constant, although the mileage was increased from 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers.

Ferrari found even more power over the winter and closed the gap to Mercedes. When Sebastian Vettel had to explain the time lag in Melbourne, the championship leader said: “It's not the engine. On the straights we don't waste any more time on Mercedes. ”Only when it comes to fuel consumption is Mercedes still ahead of the game.

Mercedes was the number too hot. Up to Bahrain, Mercedes and Ferrari were just under the limit with 0.58 liters. Now, like Renault and Honda, you have enough leeway with 0.1 to 0.2 liters. Ferrari, on the other hand, continues to take full risk. For Mercedes, the early change to a new type of oil also means that you can only bring in one oil development in 2018. As of this year, a maximum of three different lubricant specifications are allowed.

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff explains the precautionary measure: “The measurements of the oil consumption are not very precise. If you are operating at the border, you run the risk of being over it. Mercedes cannot afford to drive illegally. ”