June 05, 2002
Montreal is very much an engine circuit with three fundamental features. First off, like Monaco and Melbourne, it's a non-permanent venue. Like all temporary circuits, it is very dusty and slippery to begin with, which explains why lap times tend to be slow during Friday's free practice. However, once the cars have clocked up a certain number of laps, the track begins to offer a bit more grip.

Secondly, there are a lot of places where drivers brake heavily before accelerating hard out of the corner. This is tough on brakes and engines alike. You effectively need a powerful engine with high torque at low revs to favour acceleration, coupled with good traction.

Finally, it's a venue where fuel consumption strategy is important. An engine with low fuel consumption combined with a large fuel tank can be a decisive factor. In engine terms, Montreal is the 5th toughest Grand Prix of the season with engines effectively running at full throttle for 55% of each lap.

Montreal is also a track where top speeds are high (the 4th highest of the year). Top speed can make a difference since it can facilitate overtaking all the way down the straight. However, minimum engine speeds are also quite low.