XM-P:
It was exactly the same job that we did on the Xsara - and because we use the same gearbox and the same rear axle it was very easy for us to switch between both technologies. When we changed the differentials the only problem was to find the right set-up.
Crash.net:
How does the C4 compare in your opinion to the cars of your rivals, the Ford Focus and the
Subaru Impreza?
XM-P:
The best thing is to look at the results. This year all the manufacturers are very close. We have maybe made more mistakes this year than the other manufacturers’ and currently we don’t have first place in the drivers’ championship or in the manufacturers’ championship. We have had too many problems. But we are working on it for the future.
Crash.net:
What are the main advantages and disadvantages of the C4 in relation to the competition?
XM-P:
If I knew exactly what was our best advantage or our secret I couldn’t tell you. You understand? I am sure that we don’t have many advantages or disadvantages with the C4. Everybody works in the same direction and everybody has a good engine, good shock absorbers, a good gearbox and good balance. The main importance is the details.
Crash.net:
Why didn't
Sebastien Loeb feel comfortable in the car to start with? How did the team change that?
XM-P:
Sebastien drove many, many kilometres and after it was easier for him. But of course we changed a little bit the position of Sebastien in the car and now his seat is higher than at the beginning. However I think the most important thing is that Sebastien did many tests before Monte Carlo so that he could learn his new car and the new revisions.
Crash.net:
Did
Daniel Sordo have similar concerns?
XM-P:
Yes, exactly the same.
Crash.net:
How much of the C4 is developed in-house and how much is out-sourced and brought in?
XM-P:
100 per cent of the development is done in-house.
![Xavier Mestelan-Pinon, technical director at the Citroen Total World Rally Team [Pic credit: Citroen]](http://pix.crash.net/thumbs/401722.jpg)
