I’ve asked this same question ahead of both the 2010 and 2011 seasons as someone with an interest in manufacturer involvement in F1: Which engine will score the most points this year?
In 2010 almost everyone correctly predicted Mercedes would come out on top.
Mercedes – 736 points
Renault – 661 points
Ferrari – 453 points
Cosworth – 69 points
In 2011 Renault were ahead for most of the year, but finally the most-popular pick Mercedes eventually won by just 8 more points.
Mercedes – 731 points
Renault – 723 points
Ferrari – 460 points
Cosworth – 5 points
(http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/groups/f1/forum/topic/which-engine-will-score-most-points-in-2011/).
What do you think will happen this year?
Here are the contenders:
Mercedes – McLaren, Mercedes, Force India
Renault – Red Bull, Lotus, Williams, Caterham
Ferrari – Ferrari, Sauber, Toro Rosso
Cosworth – HRT, Marussia
The big change on this front is Williams switching to Renault. Mercedes engines have generally got ahead of Renault engines thanks to having Force India as a strong third team. If Williams have a good year (like 2010) then Renault could come out on top. Also, Caterham may start to pick up points.
But will Cosworth score any points this year with just HRT and Marussia?
My view is that Red Bull can’t repeat what they did in ’11, and McLaren will probably have a better season in ’12, which should do enough to bring Mercedes out on top.
Tell me what you think!