Jarvis suspected pole was possible

The 25-year-old became the first driver to take pole with an old car at the Dutch circuit, as he shone while the drivers of Audi's 2009 cars struggled desperately.

"I knew after practice that this was possible, but it's still a surprise," said the British driver. "We were confident going into qualifying, and then we just got everything perfect.

"I'm extremely happy for myself and the team, my car was fantastic. We've had some bad luck in the last couple of races, so it's nice to get some good luck to make up for it.

"I'm surprised that the '09 Audis are so far back - but we have the advantage of being fortunate enough to have the set-ups from last year, whereas they have no base to work from which obviously makes it difficult for them at times."

With none of the title-chasing Audi drivers on the first four rows of the grid, Jarvis is unlikely to have his race compromised by team orders. But he is expecting a tough battle with the Mercedes of Gary Paffett and Bruno Spengler, who will start second and third respectively.

"It's going to be a tough day - I know the Mercs have good race pace," he added. "So I'll need to get a good start, and if I can keep the lead into the first corner, then I will just need to concentrate on my own race."