Heidfeld revives Nordschleife glory days.

Nick Heidfeld has described his lap of the legendary Nordschleife at the Nurburgring as something he will 'never forget' when he evoked the circuit's former Formula 1 glory days by lapping the 20.8 kilometre circuit in his BMW Sauber F1.06.

Becoming the first driver in 31 years to take a Formula 1 car around the circuit, Heidfeld completed three laps of the daunting track in front of a 45,000 strong crowd and although he was forced to run with significant fuel, hard tyres and a short transmission ratio, the German claims it was an enthralling experience nonetheless.

"This drive was simply incredible. I thought it would be great to drive on the Nordschleife before I started out. But it was even better than I had expected. This racing track is the best in the world. I'd really like to have emptied the tank. It was a very special moment when I left the grand prix circuit in the direction of the Nordschleife.

"I was really shaken up at the Bergwerk section and on the D?ttinger H?he. I'll never forget today as long as I live. Another particularly special experience has now joined the many fantastic childhood memories and racing successes."

With Heidfeld notching up a fastest lap of 8mins 34secs and a top speed of 275 km/h, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen admits it was great to see one of the most challenging circuits in the world back in use.

"We wanted to give fans a special treat. And I believe we have done this with the entire BMW motor sport programme. The BMW M3 GTR that Olaf Manthey presented today was welcomed like an old friend. The car is actually much too athletic for the museum.

"Naturally, the high point was Nick's drive with the F1.06. We had implored him to be careful. The day was a homage to the fans and to this unique circuit in the world of racing. For once, the lap times were a secondary consideration."