But with former team-mate - and rival - Fernando Alonso now at Renault, Hamilton believes the 2008 car is a significant improvement on its predecessor.

"I got away to a great start but had a bit of wheel spin so it was close going into the first corner," said Hamilton, who beat Nick Heidfeld's BMW Sauber and Nico Rosberg's Williams to take maximum points.

"I had to keep cool and look after the tyres from then on but I just paced myself from then on and didn't overdo it. I had plenty of time and used that to my advantage," he said.

"They (the technical team) did a fantastic job. The car was phenomenal, a dream to drive compared to the car we had last year.

"The teams look at all angles and analyse exactly what could go on in the race and plan for the worst. We have a great strategic team and putting me into (the pits) early was great."

The second race of the season is in Malaysia next week and Hamilton is already looking forward to returning to the track.

"I feel fantastic. I never thought it would have been physically as much of a breeze as it was out there. It's great preparation for Malaysia. Bring it on."

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