Lighter C19 Aims For Points.

The Sauber C19 project team concentrated on three main areas in attempting to better their 1999 car, with focus falling on improving aerodynamic efficiency, weight reduction and reliability, with particular emphasis on last year's troublesome gearbox.


For 2000, the unit has been replaced by a newly designed and substantially lighter aluminium seven-speed 'box, while revised wings, sidepods, engine cover and diffuser address the aerodynamic problem. Hi-tech materials such as titanium and ceramics have been used extensively throughout the car, in order to provide longer part life, increased strength and lowered weight, and improved rolling resistance.


"I'm very pleased that I was able to start the C19 project back in April," admitted technical director Leo Ress, "Despite more than 5000 parts which are new in all details, the car was finished early. The first functional tests were performed back in December, which left us enough time to sort out, and fix, eventual problems.


"I think, with this car, that we have taken a significant step forward," Ress continued, "as we were able to save weight in crucial places. This was, is itself, vital, as the FIA made the constructor's job a little more difficult, with stricter but sensible changes to the regulations such as kevlar side protection and stronger roll hoops. However, I am convinced that the drivers will be able to use the car's full potential, and score a lot of points in the thirtieth year of our company."