Engine performance more important under new F1 rules

The focus of this year's rules revamp is on wider F1 cars with beefed up aerodynamics and bigger tyres cutting lap times by five seconds, largely through increased cornering speeds to the extent that teams are set to redefine some corners.

With the minimum weight also raised by 26kg from 2016, Webber believes the additional weight and drag will increase the focus on power output.

"The cars are going to have a lot more downforce, it's going to be more power sensitive than ever," Webber said.

"You'll need a bigger engine more than you ever have done, because of wider tyres and more drag.

"The cars are getting quite heavy, with the wider tyres, which is a bit unfortunate because it will slow them down."

Webber, who started 215 grands prix between 2002 and '13, believes the speed gains will be good for F1 as an entertainment package.

"The sporting side should be a good step forward, the cars are going to be quicker than they've been for a long time," he said.

"The drivers will be earning their money again, and they'll be sweating on the podium again, which will be great.

"They'll be going back to lap times like we used to do 10 years ago.

"I think that will be a good visual to watch."

Pirelli's F1 tyres will grow in width this year, with fronts to be 60mm wider and 305mm in total, and rear tyres 80mm wider and 405mm in total, still paired with 13-inch wheels.

Webber, though, feels the championship's continued use of small-profile tyres detracts from the overall look.

"The cars will look alright, apart from the rubbish-profile tyre," he added.

"We need a bigger profile tyre.

"They're still quite small in that regard, but the rest of it looks pretty good."