I think trying to compare F1 and WEC is like trying to compare a 100m sprint and a marathon. They both have their differing qualities. As for an F1 driver not having much to do whilst driving is just not true, there are many adjustments made during the race to try to improve the cars performance. Its not as simple as getting strapped in, foot to the floor, off we go.
The DRS is primarily there to avoid stagnant races whilst watching, as its a spectator sport, and spectators demand excitement and thrills. Its these types of rules that provide the global popularity that it has. We have a fascination with speed, everything down to the positioning of the pit crew to the very last nut and bolt is designed for speed and performance and this obviously provides the ideal proving ground for new innovative technology. Technology which you must agree filters down to all levels of motor sport and motoring, not much (If anything) filters upwards.
I would have to disagree with you saying that NO technology from F1 ends up in standard road cars, this has been the main drive for rule changes this season, it is a sport which models itself on how technology can improve and how it may be done in future road cars.
There have been many advancements in road cars engines because of F1, because of the amount of money and research that goes into the build of an F1 engine this can only lead to benefits that manufactures will use in their engines of their cars.
Here are a few direct impacts:
F1 is a testing ground for tyre design and has led to the modern design that everybody use on their cars.
Sequential gearboxes were first developed in F1 and can now even be seen in the C2.
Because of the ban in refuelling during pitting, our fuel at the pumps is now more efficient
As I've already said because of this years rules changes green technology is now at the forefront of research and development in the worlds biggest brands in motoring this can only lead to good things.
As for Audi wanting to join F1
@SSJGZWarrior hit the nail on its head as it were. Audi would only benefit, as would F1, more manufactures working to be the best means more competition which can only lead to a better engine design, which will filter down to road cars eventually. I would have to say that F1 is the forefront runner on representing road cars to come, and would hazard a guess that as the technology becomes cheaper other versions of motorsports will end up following their example.
Don't get me wrong you watch these sports depending on your personal taste, but as long as F1's global demand remains as it is then so will F1 remain at the top - where the most money is to be gained - manufacturers are only in it for the bottom line after all.
