|
|
              |
|
Loeb won again most events and, coincidentally, the same number of events (eight) that he won the previous year. Gronholm won two less and Hirvonen two more than 2006 so wins were again divided equally between Citroen and Ford. On podium record, the two top teams increased their share and dominated podium in such a degree than only six times other teams achieved that particular honor.
|
|
   |
|
Ford's second manufacturers' title was largely due to steady collection of points by both of their drivers, which shows in points finishing statistics. Mikko Hirvonen failed to score points only once and Marcus twice. Loeb's 100% scoring ratio of 2006 did not recur and similarly also Stohl scored less often while Petter improved his scoring. Interestingly, Sordo's record remained exactly the same as previous year, 11 times on points.
|
|
    |
|
In stage wins, Loeb was clear number one while both junior members Sordo and Hirvonen scored considerably more stage wins than in previous year. Although Marcus' share dropped drastically both Citroen and Ford won almost as many stages during the year, though this equality was achieved thanks to Stobart Ford. Subaru's share dropped and was almost non-existent. In rally leaders, Loeb was dominant driver but still Ford led for more stages. This is because Sordo practically did not lead at all but Gronholm, Hirvonen and also Latvala did.
|
|
  |
|
Average speeds increased markedly in 2007. Finland was again clearly the fastest rally but interestingly in majority of the events the average speed exceeded 100 kilometers per hour and no event was lower than 80 kph as slow events like Cyprus or Turkey were dropped and new route for Monte saw faster sections included. Stage mileage and number of starters did not change much as rules remained stabile, Great Britain again attracting largest number of competitors. Retirement ratio increased across the board but did not reach the 2005 levels except in Argentina.
|
|
|
|
|
There were four stages that were longer or as long as the longest stage of previous year but this was offset by having more of the short ones too. All of the fastest stages were in Finland except one, as in previous year. But unlike 2006, the fastest non-Finnish was not in Australia, which was omitted this year, but very surprisingly in Monte Carlo which had new fast route. Slowest stages were invariably the different Super Special Stages, again.
|
|
  |
|
Mitsubishi strengthened their grip on being the most numerous make in the stages with number of Subarus share staying constant and both Ford and Citroen gaining a lot. United Kingdom was the most common nationality, relegating Finland from number one slot to second place, Italy and France still being the third and fourth respectively.
|
|
|
 |
One of the most improved drivers of the season, Mikko Hirvonen climbed one hill in 2007. 2008 will show if that is that enough.
 |
|
