Ferrari’s task is to improve step by step, rather than make a quantum leap in Barcelona next weekend.
That is the claim of Spaniard Fernando Alonso, as the famous Italian team disappointed some headline-writers on Tuesday by not launching a ’B’ car at the Mugello test.
"We have to take a step forward in Montmelo, one in Monte Carlo, another in Canada, and so on," Alonso is quoted by La Stampa, after topping the rain-affected first day of testing on Tuesday with the improved F2012 car.
He acknowledged that Ferrari cannot win the 2012 season if the performance of the opening four grands prix is repeated throughout the season.
"We have to be qualifying in the top ten, fighting for the top five and having both cars in the points in every race," he insisted.
Asked if he thinks the title is a realistic goal, Alonso said: "We are optimistic."
He said he pushed as hard as he could in Australia, Malaysia, China and Bahrain with a sub-standard car.
"It was like walking on a wire a hundred feet up," said the 2005 and 2006 world champion. "If you do one thing wrong - hit a curb in qualifying or miss a braking point in the race - you’re not in the top ten.
"We do not have the fastest car, but with a team like Ferrari, a good car is enough.
"I’m not the best in qualifying, or in the rain, or on the street circuits, but I try to be a 9.5 in everything."