Peugeot return to Le Mans this weekend determined to challenge Audi, who made history last year in becoming the first team to win the motor racing classic with a diesel engine.

The French carmarkers, who had turned their backs on the 24-hour race after winning it twice in succession, including a one-two-three finish in 1993, will also field diesel-fuelled prototypes on Saturday.

Peugeot, who switched to Formula One and rallying during their absence from Le Mans, are still testing the horsepower-packed V12-fitted 908, and say they are aiming for victory next year.

Fastest times in testing and during Wednesday's opening qualifying session, however, suggest Peugeot could beat Audi to the chequered flag on Sunday.

Audi, lining up three R10 cars, are still regarded as the favourites, relying not only on a machine that proved unbeatable last year, but also on experienced drivers.

Among them is Dane Tom Kristensen, a seven-times Le Mans winner who has recently recovered from injuries sustained in a crash during the German DTM series at Hockenheim in April.

"I needed to drive but I felt comfortable straight away," Kristensen told reporters. "I'm pretty sure I'll be competitive."

Peugeot, too, have turned to big names, hiring Canada's Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 Formula One world champion, who will make his Le Mans debut.

"It's definitely different but it's exciting," Villeneuve said after the first qualifying session. "We have a great team. The atmosphere is fantastic."

Villeneuve found out on Wednesday just how tricky Le Mans could be, experiencing heavy rain and witnessing a spectacular crash by a Lamborghini, which also caught fire.

Three drivers share stints at the wheel during the race, which includes driving at night and during rain showers, which have been forecast for the weekend.