McLaughlin up to speed
DICK Johnson says computer data showing the true speed and skill of Scott McLaughlin proves why the back-to-back champion is a Supercars great.
In an exclusive interview with News Corp ahead of the season-ending Newcastle 500, DJR Team Penske co-owner Johnson claimed McLaughlin “is even better than me’’ after a study of the Ford flyer’s confidential race data at recent test at Queensland Raceway.
“He already is (a great),’’ Johnson said.
“My oath. Steven (Johnson’s son) had a look at his data recently and it confirmed how good he really is.
“He was testing with Scott and the data showed how good he really is. He was getting on the throttle way earlier than anyone else and getting drive out of the middle of the corner that should not be possible.’’
Regarded by many as the sport’s greatest living driver, Johnson claimed McLaughlin had joined Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup to become one of three modern day greats. “Absolutely’’ Johnson said. “Without a doubt he is already up there. I don’t think he will just challenge them, I think he will surpass them. He is still young, only 26.
“And he has a lot in front of him.’’
In a career that lasted 29 years, Johnson won five championships and claimed the Bathurst 1000 three times.
“I think he is better than me already,’’ Johnson said.
“It is hard to compare against eras, but I reckon he has me. I couldn’t do some of the things that he is doing.’’
“He has extraordinary talent. He will break all the record if that is what he wants to do.’’
Johnson’s opinion of McLaughlin was sealed following the test day at Queensland Raceway earlier this year.
“He was getting it into the corner, on the brake, and was able to turn the car and get on the throttle before anyone else,’’ Johnson said.
“He could get it out and get speed from the middle of the corner, which few can do. He can just make the car dance to his tune.
“He has so much talent. The talent that he has, he is one of these guys that can just get so much extra out of a car. He has also surprised a few with what he can do on a simulator.’’
While McLaughlin did not celebrate his latest championship win following the Sandown 500, Johnson said the 2020 crown was one of the Ford flyer’s greatest feats.