Arden duo enjoy F1 outings

F3000 champion Wirdheim spent a day testing for Jordan at Monza, whilst former Champ Car racer Bell had his first experience of F1 power during straight-line testing at Lurcy-Levis in France.

A number of small electrical problems affected Wirdheim's running for Jordan, although he was still able to lap relatively close to the pace of Brazilian GP winner Giancarlo Fisichella.

"Electrical and fuel system problems prevented me from doing as many laps as I would have liked," said the Swede, "but I was still able to set competitive times. Obviously a race seat in F1 is my objective for next year and I would like to thank Jordan for providing me with this test."

Bell completed three days of straight-line testing for BAR, as the team worked on ensuring that work the team has conducted in the wind tunnel can be translated onto the track.

"What an opportunity this is," enthused Bell. "For sure the most impressive thing is the power! The power to weight ratio is a key factor. The thing is so impressive, fully automatic up shifts that force you back in the seat with every change. It is just amazing the amount of technology in this car. I feel like a kid in a candy store, pushing all the buttons and asking 'what does this do, what does that do?'"