Coulthard happy after back-to-back test

The Scot spent yesterday (Thursday) testing McLaren's new car, before reverting to his more familiar MP4-17D for today. It marked the first time that he had driven both machines at the same test, and allowed him to formulate a firm, and positive, impression of the new car.

"This test was very good," he told autosport.com. "It was all about ensuring the new car has good pace. Ok, we had some teething problems, but I think we are almost on top of it. The test did confirm my initial impression, which is that the car is very good. It's rather unfortunate that the test ban starts now. The ban's a little longer than normal, so we have to make sure the car is ready."

Coulthard will enter the British Grand Prix driving the tried and tested MP4-17D, but reckons that the work at the test should give him a chance to challenge for victory in his home race.

"AS for Silverstone, I did some work on the tyres we're going to run," he said. "It seems like we're in good form, but then Williams are as well, and they're the pacesetters at the moment. We should stand a good chance, but let's see where Ferrari are."