Ferrari and Mercedes showed better pace and reliability from the start, indicating that they will likely be a step ahead at Australian Grand Prix.
While rally cars frequently touch the 200 kmph mark, Powerboats average a rough speed of just under 100 kmph, due to the course.
The first Russian Grand Prix was held in Sochi in 2014 and the previous deal was set to run out in 2021.
Ferrari performance in the second preseason test event shows that the competitive edge is returning to F1.
While Lewis Hamliton aimed for speed, new teammate Valtteri Bottas went for distance as they shared time behind the wheel of the revamped Silver Arrow
Valtteri Bottas' teammate and three-time former champion Lewis Hamilton will take over driving for the Silver Arrows during Monday's afternoon session
The bigger and quicker cars are also likely to be harder to drive, putting more emphasis on the drivers' skills and physical conditioning.
The new car has a lengthened nose and an arrow-shaped wing as a consequence of the radical overhaul of the sport's technical rulebook.
Valtteri Bottas said that the car was the best car he had ever driven.
Vijay Mallya said he had become a "political football" between the two major Indian political parties as they campaigned in state elections.
After two years away from F1, Paul Di Resta returned last year as reserve driver for Williams.
Pascal Wehrlein tweeted that his decision to not participate in the pre-season was based on "medical advice.''