The F2004 is the fiftieth car built by Ferrari to compete in the Formula
1 World Championship. The project, which goes by the code number 655,
represents a further evolution of the concepts already seen in the
F2003-GA.
However, every element of the car has been completely redesigned in an
attempt to create the best environment to get the most out of the new
053 engine and the Bridgestone tyres. The aerodynamic configuration has
been fine tuned in the light of changes to the technical regulations,
improving the efficiency of the package. Furthermore the car boasts a
lower centre of gravity, while weight distribution has been improved as
regards the chassis and the engine.
The chassis is new, both in terms of design and construction. Its weight
has been reduced and it has an improved structure when compared with the
F2003-GA. The bodywork, exhausts and the rear end have been redesigned,
producing an improvement in aerodynamic performance. The front and rear
suspension has been revised in order to improve the vehicle's dynamic
handling which leads to a greater efficiency in terms of getting the
most out of the Bridgestone tyres, while also optimising the performance
of the aerodynamic package. New materials have been used in the engine
and transmission in order to reduce its size and weight.
Modifications to the sporting regulations regarding the number of
engines that can be used in the course of a Grand Prix weekend set new
targets for the 053 engine design project: achieving the optimum
reliability level, even though engine life now has to be double that in
the past, while striving to improve performance. Once again the engine
is a stressed member and is mounted longitudinally. Shell has played an
important role in the research and design of the 053 and in terms of
reaching the performance and reliability targets, coming up with new
fuel and lubricants.
The transmission is once again mounted longitudinally to maintain the
same layout as on the F2003-GA. It is a completely new design, providing
a reduction in size and weight. The titanium gearbox has seven speeds
(plus reverse) and, because of changes to the technical regulations, is
operated directly by the driver. In keeping with a trend initiated by
Ferrari back in 1997, which is now standard Formula 1 practice, the car
features high-level exhausts, but compared with previous versions, they
are mounted nearer the car's centre line.
The F2004 represents a further step forward in the history of Ferrari's
single seaters. A great deal of time and attention was paid to making
the most of the new materials and to optimising the various design
stages as well as the quality control methods, all aimed at improving
overall reliability and performance while making the car as safe as
possible.Tech Specs
Model: F2004
Engine: Type 053, V10, cylinder block in cast aluminium
Total Displacement: 2,997 cm3
Timing Gear: Pneumatic distribution, 40 valves
Fuel Feed: Magneti Marelli digital electronic injection
Ignition: Magneti Marelli static electronic ignition
Transmission: Ferrari longitudinal gearbox. Limited-slip differential.
Semiautomatic sequential electronically controlled gearbox, 7 gears +
reverse
Chassis: Carbon-fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Suspension: Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs
front and rear
Brakes: Ventilated carbon-fibre disc brakes
Length: 4545 mm
Width: 1796 mm
Height: 959 mm
Wheelbase: 3050 mm
Front Track: 1470 mm
Rear Track: 1405 mm
Weight with water, lubricant and driver: 605 kg
Wheels (front and rear): 13'' |
