Mclaren will likely gain a handful of tenths just having a better chassis and power unit integration. I still see RBR out of reach even with the Honda engine, but they certainly won't be 1.5 seconds ahead like in 2018.diffuser wrote: ↑28 Jan 2019, 21:42I agree with all that but I have to add that there are some fairly large question marks for RBR. The PUs are completely different. I doubt the packaging will be as efficient this first year with Honda as it was after 5 years with Renault. They've also gotten it wrong before after a rule change and taken a good part of the year to correct it. So there is hope there.godlameroso wrote: ↑26 Jan 2019, 15:09Mileage from the opening practice session. All 8 days of testing with at least 100 laps each, then just keep pushing the design of the car until Melbourne.
They had plenty of time to rework the chassis to not only address its shortcomings, but to be as prepared as possible for the new regs. They are getting a massively upgraded Renault power unit.
I honestly think 2019 Mclaren will be over a second per lap faster than it was in 2018. Will that be enough, considering the deficit was 1.7 seconds, and if the new regulations slow the cars down a few tenths relative to 2018. They may be competitive enough to have a season long scrap with Renault for 4th best.
Mark my words, McLaren will not get lapped in 2018 unless they get a puncture or damage the car. With luck they can have a car capable finishing the race <20s off the race winner.
