"The car has a different philosophy": Sebastian Vettel

Sebastian Vettel has revealed that driving a new car has a steep learning curve. According to Vettel, the Aston Martin feels different from what he is used to, and he is still learning the characteristics and behavior of his new car.

Speaking about his preparations before the start of the season, Vettel said:

"It's just getting to know the people, as it's one thing to understand what they mean, obviously, and lots of different things to talk about the car."

Speaking about the car specifically, Vettel asserted:

"On the car, the steering feels different, because it's a different unit. Obviously, every F1 car has power steering, but every power steering is set up slightly differently, and it gives you a different impression because ultimately, when you drive, you have the wheel in your hands and that's the feedback you get."

This time next week, we're waiting patiently. 💚 pic.twitter.com/tdlfkbCNev

— Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) March 21, 2021

This car drives differently: Sebastian Vettel

Sebastian Vettel elaborated on how switching teams and machinery has affected his preparation.

"The car has a different philosophy," said the four-time world champion.

"It's a different team, it's a different car so it drives a bit differently. It wants to be driven differently, and with a different power unit."

"I’m playing around, trying lots of stuff; some stuff works, some other stuff doesn’t, some things require breaking a habit. That’s part of the game and it’s also exciting."#SV5 talks #F1Testing with @F1.com ⬇️https://t.co/fMGFuHwllf #F1

— Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) March 16, 2021

Explaining the differences between cars in Formula 1, Vettel asserted:

"It's not like there's only one thing. It's not like you have a high rake car and you just drop the rake and you are in a Mercedes, and you are in a Mercedes and you increase the rake and you drive a Red Bull. It's not like that. It's much, much more complex. There are a lot more elements that have to come together."

Sebastian Vettel is heading into the 2021 season with a damaged reputation, following his stint at Ferrari which ultimately led to an unceremonious exit. At Aston Martin, it's all about starting fresh and stamping his authority on the grid.

Early indications, however, do not look great. Sebastian Vettel did not have a good pre-season test. He failed to rack up mileage on his new car after nagging reliability issues.