Impressions from Road Atlanta

We caught up with a few special drivers at Petit Le Mans this weekend to get their thoughts on the 10th running of the endurance classic, the new surface at Road Atlanta and the Series in general.

Vitor Meira, Andretti Green Racing
Acura ARX (LMP2)
“I got the call Tuesday night to drive (replacing Dario Franchitti). I’ve only had 15 minutes in the car but I’ve very happy. The Acura is much better and we have much more development and support compared to the Lola (last year’s car for Highcroft Racing). Turn 5 and Turn 7 are much better. The overall grip has improved and the track is less bumpy."

Darren Manning, Arena International Motorsports
Zytek 07S (LMP1)
“I feel the car is very competitive. It feels really good and I do like the track very much. It’s my first time with this chassis in LMP1."

Graham Rahal, Rahal Letterman Racing
Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (GT2)
“The track improvements are fantastic since I was here the last time with Star Mazda (in 2005). It’s impressive how much better it is. There are still are a few bumps but overall it’s very nice. It’s not as nerve-wracking as with Champ Car. It’s not as intense and the attitude throughout the paddock is friendly."