Positive first impressions for Rosberg

Nico Rosberg has delivered an optimistic assessment of his new Mercedes charger.

The German recorded 39 laps on the first day of testing in Valencia and was happy with his first impressions.

"My initial feelings are very good, very positive, and everything went very smoothly," he reported after handing over driver duties to Michael Schumacher for the afternoon session.

"It did feel great, although it's difficult to compare because there are so many different things.

"After four years with one car, and with the same people building it, it was always going to be a question of 'How is it going to be? Do you feel comfortable straight away or not?'

"To be honest, it really felt very similar to what I was used to, which was a really nice feeling.

"Although the position I was sitting in, the steering load, the way the steering feels, the power from the engine, everything is very different, I really felt at home very quickly."

Asked whether he felt it could be a winner, as last year, Rosberg replied: "It felt good, but there are so many new circumstances that I can't feel whether it will be or not."

The crucial factor for Rosberg is that he feels at home within the team, and with Schumacher as team-mate, even though the perception is he will ultimately be overshadowed by his more famous compatriot.

"For me, to have him here is a great thing, fantastic," insisted Rosberg.

"I must say, from my point of view, it (his arrival) has given me a little bit of extra motivation.

"My relationship with him is very good. I get on well with him. We respect each other and I think we will be great team-mates.

"There will be a few things I'll be able to pick up from him as he is one of the best that has ever driven.

"Surely there will be bits and pieces I can learn from him, which will be great for me and my career."

Source: Positive first impressions for Rosberg - Planet-F1 News from planet-f1.com