Analysis: Why Hamilton and Vettel had very different Russian F1 GP experiences
This is because the margin for error is so large; if you make a mistake the car is fast enough relative to the competition that it is recoverable.
The calls made in the tightly-packed midfield are much more finely balanced.
The Japanese Grand Prix saw a series of problem decisions for Ferrari in qualifying and the race, while in the midfield we saw an excellent battle between the Force India, Haas, Renault and Toro Rosso cars and some interesting tactics going on.