Peugeot Launch: Bigger is better, says Pug boss

Vauxhall's latest BTCC car is based on its medium-sized Astra Coupe, but Peugeot has chosen to mount its attack with the much larger 406 Coupe - shunning the smaller, more compact 307 model.

"People have been saying that small cars are the way forward with the new rules," said Linford, "but we believe that bigger cars - and the 406 will be the biggest car out there - are a better option, and we'll be proved right.

"The new regulations mean the cars no longer run lots of downforce, so our car, with its longer wheelbase and wider track will be more stable under heavy braking. With the 406, we reckon we'll be able to go brake deeper and later into the corners and have a car that's superior to the Vauxhall when it comes to overtaking."

Peugeot is scheduled to test the car for the first time in mid-February at Vallelunga in Italy, almost a month later than Vauxhall, but Linford doesn't believe this will be a hindrance to Peugeot finally breaking its BTCC victory duck.

"Look at our car then look at the Vauxhall and I think our package is worth an extra half-second straight out of the box. We passionately believe and we are confident that this car will be a winner."