Felipe Massa has expressed his happiness following his first winter testing session inside Ferrari's new F138 car.

The Brazilian driver has previously gone on record to criticise previous Ferrari contenders, particularly last year when he was extremely unhappy with the 2012 model.

However, this time around the 31-year-old is much more confident following a stint at the wheel in Jerez.

"I would say the difference compared to last year is huge, it is on a different planet," he said. "This year is much more balanced and I felt a good direction from the rear of the car as well."

Massa joined Ferrari prior to the 2006 campaign.