
Monza marks a real return to power track territory. The 5.793km circuit in the Old Royal Park is one of the few remaining high speed tracks on the calendar and so requires the lowest downforce arrangement seen all year.
Monza's chicanes and four key corners, however, also demand a balancing aerodynamic efficiency to ensure a smooth transition over the harsh kerbs. A traditional power track, engines are put through their paces over the weekend as they consistently reach speeds of 340kph and endure a full throttle ratio of 73% per lap.
With such high top speeds, and an average lap speed of 250kph, extensive loads are exerted on the brakes during each braking event. Turn one, for example, sees drivers brake so hard into the corner, they experience 5g. Accordingly, brake durability is crucial while a car's stability under braking is also important at Monza where the track surface is notoriously bumpy.
With an approximate 25 second penalty for each pit-stop, the Italian Grand Prix is invariably a one or perhaps two stop race. With several overtaking opportunities over the lap, the final European round will no doubt be an engaging one.
| Italy 2008 news | |
|---|---|
| 15 Sep. '08 | Vettel: I'm not the new Schumacher |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Overjoyed Toro Rosso celebrates first victory |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Ferrari fails to take advantage at home |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Podium keeps BMW and Kubica in title chase |
| 14 Sep. '08 | McLaren and Hamilton count valuable points |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Improving weather costs Williams shot at points |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Red Bull scrapes a point |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Renault moves level on points with Toyota |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Pointless day for Force India |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Disappointing day for Honda |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Toyota fails to capitalise on conditions |
| 14 Sep. '08 | Vettel celebrates 'unbelievable' victory |
| More Italy 2008 news, Photos | |