Toto Wolff says that Nico and Lewis are the strongest pairing because they have a good history together of being harmonious.
Commentators have said lately, that it shows well for Nico how well he has done vs Lewis, in terms of his own stock. And it also makes Schumacher look better by comparison (in retrospect).
This wasn't a surprise to me, because to me most F1 drivers are quite close to each other and Nico has always seemed as fast as anyone else. However, now with Lewis beside him it seems more certain.
We all know how fast Lewis is, and Nico beats him on occasion and it's quite a good battle between them.
So.. I guess this IS a very strong pairing. And the other to compare with would be Alonso and Kimi? Alonso's stock is very high, and Kimi.. it will be interesting to see how he goes. They could definately be the strongest pairing. And if Kimi beats Alonso it'd seem almost certain that they are. It's hard to say for sure since it's still 2013 but yeah.
I have to agree with Wolff, but I think for a different reason. They are younger. They are of similar age, younger, very quick. They aren't rookies, they have experience, but still young enough to be climbing towards their peak. Younger drivers are usually better at adapting to new rules or changes as well. It's fun to think about though because they are all good drivers.
For a fictional pairing, I think Seb and Lewis would be the strongest pairing. But yet, I'd rate Alonso as the best #1 option for a team, the best overall driver. It'f be interesting if Ferrari DO have the strongest pairing, and Kimi beats Alonso. Could anyone imagine Alonso supporting anyone in a #2 role, in the latter half of a season?
I guess where Merc are strong, is the longterm future.
All in my opinion of course. Who do you think?