Jerez F1 test: Kimi Raikkonen says new Ferrari is a "different story"

Kimi Raikkonen declared the 2015 Ferrari already a "completely different story" to last season's car after his first Formula 1 test of the year at Jerez.

Although Raikkonen led the way on day one of 2014 running 12 months ago, that proved to be the precursor to the least successful season of his F1 career.

He said there were instantly signs that 2015 should be a better year.

"There are a lot of good points in the areas where we had difficulties," Raikkonen said.

"Obviously it's just the first day and the circuit stayed damp for most of the day, but we had good running and got some mileage.

"The whole package is quite a bit better than how we finished last year. We've improved in all the areas.

"We have a lot of things to do and things to improve, but it's definitely a positive start and we have something to work with."

Asked to directly compare how his first impression of the SF15-T compared to his early feelings in the F14T, Raikkonen replied: "It's a lot different. It's a new car and you usually know if the car is going to be good or not good [immediately].

"This year is a completely different story to last year.

"It's a positive start and I had a good feeling straightaway when I went out."

CONTRACT 'NOT THE END OF THE WORLD'

Raikkonen's Ferrari deal will be up for renewal at the end of 2015, but he shrugged off any suggestion that he was starting a critical year for his career.

"There is an option in the contract. I don't mind. It's up to me and up to the team to do a good job this year," he said.

"If it goes badly and I don't sign it, then I don't sign it. It's not the end of the world.

"The aim is to do well and have good times and for everyone to be happy.

"I'm sure we can do a good year and then we'll see what happens in the future.

"I don't worry about it and I don't have to think about it."