Technical: Under the skin of the Ferrari SF16-H

©F1i

©F1i

TWEEDLEDUM AND TWEEDLEDEE?

This right-side view clearly shows the two intercoolers, as well as the oil tank and pump.

Even if the 2016-spec unit is equipped with air ducts while its 2015 predecessor is not, comparing both power units on the pictures above highlight several differences, starting with the shape and place of the oil tank, the intercooler, the length of the plant (the 2015-spec model was longer due to both MGUs featuring at the back), the positioning of the exhaust, etc.

It is worth noticing that the exhaust pipes remain wrapped individually with a metallic insulating material. This is characteristic to Ferrari, since Mercedes, Renault, and Honda all place their multi-tube exhaust as a whole in a sort of insulating blanket.

Like the 2015 power unit, the 059/5 plant uses the much-talked about Turbulent Jet Ignition (TJI) technology, thanks to Ferrari’s Germany-based piston partner MAHLE.

James Allison’s latest and final Maranello charger features a mix of proven (ERS installation, pushrod suspension) and innovative (the double intercooler setup and angled radiator positioning) solutions under its skin. If Maranello experienced some teething problems with its 2016-spec power unit and the team’s strategy has been questionable in some races, it is really on the aerodynamic front that Ferrari has been lacking this year. And given Red Bull’s chassis proficiency, it is perhaps not that surprising to have seen the Milton Keynes-based outfit bring the fight to Mercedes as the Silver Arrows’ nearest challengers.

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