Englishman Lewis Hamilton says he’s honoured to be mentioned in the same breath as one his Formula One heroes, Nigel Mansell.

Hamilton snatched pole position for Sunday’s Australian grand prix to equal Mansell’s mark of 32 career poles.

Only one Englishman has more career pole positions – Jim Clark, who took top-billing at 33 grands prix between 1960-68.

Hamilton and his Mercedes prevailed in wild wind and rain during Saturday’s qualifying session in Melbourne.

“Today was so much harder for everyone in these conditions,” Hamilton told reporters.

“These cars are a lot harder to drive in the wet and the first time for me driving this car in the rain.

“It was a serious task and challenge today so to be up here is a great showing.”

Hamilton, seeking a 23rd grand prix victory, said he had long-admired the success of Mansell, who won 31 races.

“He’s one of the great Brit drivers we’ve had, to have achieved so much,” Hamilton said.

“To be in Formula One has always been my dream but to get as many poles as him is an incredible achievement.”