When they're hot, they're very hot. Leading a hungry pack, as they did on a number of occasions last year, Johnson's robust Falcons look menacing, almost invincible. When they're not on their game, they can be made to look less than average.

Consistency is the missing ingredient; the different between a championship win and another promising but ultimately unsatisfying season.

[an error occurred while processing this directive]Just when it seemed Steven Johnson would all but capitulate in the imposing shadows of his immortal father, Dick Johnson, he emerged last year as Ford's meaner, greatly leaner fighting machine, silencing a growing band of critics with an inspired driving renaissance.

It began in Adelaide, with a celebrated podium finish. With renewed confidence and much-needed self-belief, an emotional round win in Canberra would follow, before teaming with Radisich to win the Queensland 500.

He lost form over the final rounds, his title hopes slipping away when his engine expired atop Mount Panorama, but with the taste of success so fresh in his mouth, the rebirth is far from complete.

He knows how to win the big races, and can go the distance. The championship is in his sights.

[an error occurred while processing this directive]Paul Radisich has made an indelible mark on V8 Supercar racing since joining the series in 1999. The two-time World Touring Car Cup champion has now fully adapted to the Australian way of life and racing, after what seemed a long, arduous initiation.

Last year saw a more tenacious Radisich; one who did not shy away from any street fight. Reminiscent of his Castrol counterpart, Radisich did some enforcing of his own. It came with the realisation that if he wants this title - and he does, desperately - he has to do it the hard way, by biffing and barging his way to the front.

The laconic Kiwi produced blinding speed at some rounds - like his commanding Barbagallo performance - and somewhat erratic displays at others. Again, consistency is the key.

It seems almost inevitable, fitting even, that Radisich will one day win the Aussie crown. 2002 may well be the year of the Rat.

[an error occurred while processing this directive]And Greg Ritter, a most impressive enduro import for Dick Johnson Racing last season, has been invited back to the team for this year's campaign.

But rather than make a cameo appearance come the Queensland 500 and Bathurst V8 Supercar 1000, Johnson is making him earn his keep: testing for the team, working at DJR's Brisbane headquarters, and racing a third Shell Helix Falcon at selected rounds of the championship.