Heidfeld: Spa not as exciting with V8s

Formula One cars last raced at the Belgian circuit in 2005, when the more powerful V10 engines were still allowed.

The circuit, very popular among drivers thanks to some challenging corners like Eau Rouge, was absent from last year's calendar.

"Spa is a very nice track. However, after the change from the V10 to the V8 engines you can go Eau Rouge and Blanchimont flat out without a problem, so the circuit has lost its ultimate thrill," said Heidfeld after practice.

The German finished the second session 11th quickest, and he admitted he was not pleased with his car's balance.

Heidfeld, however, is expecting BMW to be the third strongest team behind Ferrari and McLaren once again.

He added: "We had no technical problems, but I'm not satisfied with my car's balance yet, although I think this is also down to the fact I didn't attend the test here. Friday's practice times are always difficult to interpret. I feel our team will also be the third strongest here."

Teammate Robert Kubica finished in ninth place after complaining about the lack of grip.

"The day was okay," the Pole said. " We did a lot of running, but unfortunately again the grip level is quite poor. Now we have to analyse why the car feels different today than in the test.

"The conditions for the test were similar but with some rain, which should have been an advantage today, but it was not the case."