BMW BLOG

2007 was an even bigger test now that they had to design the car from scratch rather than work from the previous Sauber car they inherited.  As well, Bridgestone, the only tire supplier after the withdrawal of Michelin and not the tires the f1.06 was designed for produce tires known to allow the car to slide around more.  

This had engineers and aero people shaking their heads a bit in effort to gain balance and stability in the F1.07 through corners.  Engine, gearbox and seamless shifting were also new additions to the car.

The nose of the car was raised to help in front suspension although the nose tip remained at it’s original height.  Although not unique to the F1.07 it did have a substantial affect.  Other notables about the nose is it is shorter, flatter, and much thinner to once again help with airflow.

Closing the gap to the front runners was the main goal in 2007 and a distinct possibility after finishing a very respectable fifth in 2006 in only their first year.

Willy Rampf: “We have channeled our experience with the F1.06 into the new car, but at the same time focused on the new challenges presented by the 2007 regulations.”

Despite the many aero changes, new engine and time saving seamless shifting system, BMW Sauber still remained a distant 3rd with all three teams improving equally throughout the season.

So how did the team do in 2007?  With the disqualification of McLaren, BMW Sauber moved from third into second in the constructors championship.  No race wins yet, but 101 points, 2 podiums and numerous top 8 finishes made 2007 a good year and a significant improvement over 2006.

This article was written by Stew, found of BMWF1blog.com, a place where you can get you Formula 1 “fix”.