Feb.26 (GMM) Michael Schumacher felt optimistic about Ferrari's forthcoming formula one campaign after testing the F2008 single seater for the first time on Monday.

Although the retired seven time world champion, as well as reigning drivers' title winner Kimi Raikkonen, narrowly trailed the pace of Lewis Hamilton's McLaren at Barcelona, 39-year-old Schumacher told reporters that Ferrari is ready to charge for wins beginning with the Australian grand prix next month.

"The new car is better than last year's in all areas," the German said.

"The world championship will be fought again between two teams -- us, and the Silberpfeile (silver arrows)," he told the German newspaper Bild, referring to Maranello based Ferrari and Mercedes-powered McLaren.

"Behind us are some others with question marks," he added.

But while not including Renault and BMW Sauber as immediately in the hunt for wins this season, Schumacher is keen to play down the suggestion that Ferrari will run away with the title.

"I see Ferrari's advantage as not as big as many believe," he is quoted as saying by the Swiss newspaper Blick.

Schumacher hinted to the German broadcaster RTL, meanwhile, that he is not planning to test too regularly for the Italian team.

"Driving for me is still fun, as long as it is not too often," he said.