They were running an uprated Ferrari customer engine as well as a new aerodynamic package consisting of a new front wing, engine cover and undertray.

"I'm very happy with this fantastic result, which is confirmation of the performance of both drivers, the progressive development of the Sauber Petronas C21 and, ultimately, the harmonious collaboration of the whole team. Thank you to the crew here at the A1-Ring, and to those back at the factory in Hinwil!" exclaimed team principal Peter Sauber in a press release.

Nick Heidfeld, whose fifth place is his best-ever qualifying result, was also pleased. "This morning we were very competitive, which was pleasing after the track time I lost yesterday," he said.

"At the start of qualifying we did a little test, then I got a very good lap on my third run. Unfortunately I got held up by Button on my fourth lap. He was on his out lap and probably thought I was, too.

"But I'm happy to be fifth on the grid, and pleased with the performance our of latest Petronas engine. Since we are always strong in race trim I believe that the third row will be a very good place to start."

Felipe Massa had hoped to be in the top six but a couple of mistakes left him just short of his goal. "I made a mistake on my first run and got on to the gravel, so I aborted the lap. I'm really disappointed that I couldn't hold on to fifth place after my third run, but on my last one I made another small mistake, otherwise I would have been even quicker, for sure," he stated.

"The balance of the car was neutral in all but the really high-speed corners, and I jerked the steering wheel just a little bit too much and got some oversteer that cost me time. Seventh place is my best qualifying position so far, though."