Stohl: early start no problem

Stohl finished fourth in his Manufacturer 2 Peugeot 307 in last month's Monte Carlo Rally, but starts third because third placed Toni Gardemeister is not participating in the event.

Traditionally early runners are inhibited because they have to act as a snow-plough and clear fresh snow off the stages on the early runs. The Austrian does not believe this will cause him a problem however, but is only targeting a top-eight finish.

"This is no disadvantage given the icy temperatures," Stohl said. "The tyres will decide this rally for although everybody will use the same kind of tyres there are huge differences as far as the durability of the spikes is concerned.

"My goal for Sweden remains a top-eight place, for you have a lot of local heroes competing here who know each metre and have trained on this surface since they started rallying. But my feeling for the car is getting better by the day."