Yeah, I think they'd stand still and let everyone turn it around
Obviously Mercedes have a real complete package, but I think the crux of their advantage is how they use their power train. There's no way that the Mercedes is 2 seconds up on most cars because of the chassis alone.
I think every single interview you read with anyone close to the sport tells you that whatever the Mercedes advantage is, it is untouchable this season. That pretty much indicates to me that developing downforce, chassis, aero and whatever else you want to change, isn't enough to bridge the gap. Why? Because the power train is a massive advantage and no one can play with those until next season. The Red Bull team seem pretty certain that Renault is what is costing them at the moment.
I might well be completely wrong. Monaco, far less of a power circuit, might indicate where the advantage really lies. If the pack close up substantially this weekend, I think we'll know. However, if Mercedes are still a second up per lap on a street circuit, then maybe they just have an incredible car in every aspect.
i don't know why people are finding it so hard to see why Mercedes are so far into front
, apart from the obvious engine advantage. They've had superior mechanical grip than the Red Bulls for a couple of years now, because they've invested heavily in FRICs and suspension (you only have to look at their suspension to see it's more developed, and the fact they've been quicker than the Red Bulls around Monaco and tight twisty sectors of tracks), where as other teams like Red Bull have focused on Down Force and things like Blown Exhausts, all of which have now conveniently been banned or gimped at the rear of the car leaving Mercedes with a significant advantage (as well as removing an advantage Red Bull had, which ironically may of made this season slightly more interesting). simple as that. Mercedes will either be the same distance or possibly even further ahead this weekend, the only thing that will close the gap is wet conditions, as the limited down force becomes more important.
