"I think one big learning is that every car is different," assessed Russell. "What actually held me back in the Mercedes were the limitations I had with Williams.
"In a Williams, I really struggled to brake late and turn the steering wheel at the same time and combine braking into a corner because the car wouldn't be able to handle it.
"It'd often lock a tyre or lose a rear. You'd find yourself having to brake a bit earlier to try and keep the car under control as you approach the corner.
“Whereas the Mercedes was so robust, you could afford to brake so late and carry speed into the corner and be aggressive. That took me time to understand.
“It was only until probably halfway through the race that I was able to match Valtteri in that phase of the corner. It was actually at turn one. Every lap, I was always losing a tenth and a half to him just because I didn't know a Formula 1 car was capable of that.
"Then, obviously, I jumped back to the Williams knowing I couldn't drive it as I drove the Mercedes.
“That was a real great experience. Especially when you look at other teams, other cars. Often you just need to look at yourself, what can I do to improve my driving and the car?
“Then finally learning to deal with a loss or a victory. That was the first time in my Formula 1 career where I felt that pain of losing out on a victory and trying to bounce back from that. I'm sure it won't be the last time.
“To be honest, I look back on Bahrain now with no frustration or no hard feelings. It's something that will mould me into a stronger driver.”
The strength of that test is about to be realised this season, and from everything we have witnessed so far, it is one Russell appears set to pass with flying colours.
Images courtesy of Motorsport Images.