Niki Lauda - Vettel favourite for 2012 title

Even though McLaren and Ferrari are pushing for a consistent return to winning ways, Lauda reckons they still lack the performance of Red Bull racing.

"Logic tells me that Red Bull will move further forward," Lauda explained to Austrian newspaper Salzburger Nachrichten. "The only rule change is the modified exhaust and diffuser. The loss in output is compensated by even better aerodynamics.

"The question again is: Who is it wisest? He that can build on a very good car already has an advantage. Red Bull can further develop the success, which is easier than to start over. But the real standard for 2012 can only be assessed after the first tests."

Lauda went on to talk about the likelihood of Sebastian Vettel picking up a third Drivers' crown in 2012, backing the German to set the pace throughout the campaign.

"That is quite possible," added of Vettel's title chances. "In 2011, Sebastian's self-confidence increased immensely and he made no mistakes. Next year he will be the man to beat. Whoever wants to beat him will need a perfect car."