Coulthard expects step forward in Spain

David Coulthard feels his Red Bull Racing team can be significantly more competitive at the Spanish Grand Prix following a productive test at Barcelona

The Scot lifted his team's spirits on Friday after posting the fastest time of the week, which was also the track record since the layout was revised with a new chicane.

Red Bull, using Renault engines this season, are yet to score a point in 2007, with the Adrian Newey-designed RB3 having failed to live up to expectations so far.

Coulthard, however, reckons the team have taken a step forward ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix.

"We benefited quite a bit from the test," Coulthard told autosport.com after the final day of testing. "We really are playing catch-up to the other teams. We had a lot of parts to try really.

"I feel we can be more competitive in many aspects in Barcelona. Like I said before, it all sounds good, I set the quickest time but it would be nice to repeat the feat when the flag goes."

The team tested a new seamless shift gearbox during the week, although it is not yet decided if they will race it in Spain.

Coulthard's teammate Mark Webber had also proved quick at the Spanish track on Wednesday, when he posted the second quickest time.