Gerhard Berger agrees that comparisons between the legendary Ayrton Senna and Formula 1 teen sensation Max Verstappen are appropriate.

The Senna comparisons have been made since even before the young Dutchman debuted, but they are back with a bang after Brazil, where Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko said that Verstappen's race reminded him of Senna's legendary Donington 1993.

Berger, arguably Senna's most memorable teammate and personal friend, gives the Verstappen/Senna comparison real credence.

"Yes, when I see Max, Senna comes to my mind," Berger admitted.

"This is the first time I say something like this, because I was really close to Ayrton and I think he was the greatest. In his personality, his driving, his results, his preparation. He was different to everyone.

"I've always respected that and so I avoided comparisons, but with Max it's hard not to."

Referring to Verstappen's performance at Interlagos, Berger said: "It was awesome.

"He was always trying new lines, even behind the safety car he was studying the circuit. Engineers from other teams were even telling their drivers to imitate him.

"He knew exactly what to do, and it's amazing at his age. He sought and found impossible lines, making the others look like schoolboys. His control of the car, as he saw in the incident on the straight was crazy."

As for Verstappen's critics, who say that the Red Bull driver is too arrogant, Berger insisted: "Someone like him can afford it."

Verstappen sits fifth in the drivers' standings, five points behind Sebastian Vettel, ahead of the season-closing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.