Ferrari's new Formula One car has yet to show its full potential despite being a winner after just one race, world champion Michael Schumacher said on Thursday.

"I believe that we couldn't show the true potential of the car and we will have better opportunities," the German told a news conference ahead of Sunday's Austrian Grand Prix.

Schumacher gave the new F2003-GA a winning debut in Spain two weeks ago but rivals, particularly championship-leading McLaren who have yet to race their new car, were heartened that the car was less dominant than was feared.

"We were quick enough," countered Schumacher, who said tyres played a big part in that race.

The German said Barcelona is a circuit that showed a car's true potential, particularly in terms of aerodynamic performance.

"If it goes well there, it is supposed to go well everywhere," he said. "I believe we have a very good car that should only go better, not worse."

Schumacher, chasing a record sixth world title this season, is currently second overall, and four points adrift of McLaren's young Finn Kimi Raikkonen.