A4 STW shakedown tests at +1deg C

["Jouko Haapanen" <joukoh@vtoy.fi>]

Today was the first shakedown and test day for the new ex-factory A4 quattro
(WAUZZZ8DZSA000063) that is awaiting its maiden race under the banners of
Audi Sport Finland.  LMS is servicing and running the car along with another
older ex-Audi A4 quattro and SMS's Audi 80 Competition powered by a
beautifully built MTM 1.8T engine.  The weather was a balmy one degree above
freezing, and the occasional snoflakes greeted us along with a persistent
wind.

The driver, Mikko Lempinen, had his first laps ever in a saloon car as he
took to the track at Alastaro.  The car ran well (as expected) considering
the tires were old test tyres from last year and the tires did not even get
up to 50 deg C temperature buildup.  Mikko ran approximately 30 laps on four
different outings, and his times were consistently improving.  The times
were still a bit off our target, but considering the conditions, the tires
and his first outing in the car, all were pleased.

On tuesday there will bwe more tests, this time a new set of Michelins are
going under the car, and hopefully the carbon fibre lids will be ready by
the tests around the end of the week.  I took a few photos at the test
today, so once I get around to processing, if someone wants to post some
pics (mostly underhood/inside/trunk etc) lemme know.

The press day for all national championship series (track) is on Thursday,
and the first races are on the weekend of May 21-23.

Jouko Haapanen
Pori, Finland