2008 vs. 2009 speeds

[call_me_andrew]

I know the lap times are faster this year, but does anyone know if the times are faster because the top speed has been raised or is it a matter of cornering speed being higher.

I ask because while watching qualifying I noticed that the huge front wing and small rear wing would eliminate a lot of drag.

[Mark in Oshawa]

I have no idea, we need a tech head to explain but those skinny little rear wings with the big honking front wings have made these cars look like a bigger styling disaster than I thought possible. IRL cars are ugly enough, but at least there is some symmetry to the design....

[ShiftingGears]

More mechanical grip courtesy of the slicks would go a long way.