Vettel unfazed by starting '08 with old car

The Red Bull-owned outfit are only expected to get their version of Red Bull's RB4 for the start of the European season, meaning they will have to use an updated version of the STR2 for the first flyaway events of the year.

Vettel has no concerns about that state of affairs being a hindrance, however.

"It is official that we are starting off with an evolution of this year's car, but I don't think it is a big disadvantage," he told autosport.com. "It should be fine. All the team members are very motivated, the atmosphere is great and I'm really looking forward to it."

Vettel thinks his strong races at the end of last season - which included leading the Japanese Grand Prix before crashing behind the safety car, and finishing fourth in the Chinese Grand Prix - have fired up the entire Toro Rosso team for 2008.

"It was good after Japan to have one week after a good result, but the most important thing is that everyone is happy," he explained.

"Everyone is enjoying work and I think we form a good team for next year, so we are definitely working hard. There is always a bit of an extra push if you feel the guys are happy.

"Testing was strong for us, we were not running empty as some guys spoke in the press, but it is hard to say where anyone is until we get to Australia.

"If you listen to everybody now and believe what they say then you will need points down to 20th position and a podium for the top 10 guys.

"We will just keep our feet on the ground."