Motor cars: general interest Books

Book SynopsisThis book tells the story of Alvis and its cars, aero engines and military vehicles. Starting with the formation of the company in 1919, it traces the company's products through the 1920s and 1930s, and through its wartime exploits to its eventual takeover by Rover. The book covers: the early four-cylinder cars; the amazing six-cylinder cars; early ventures into armoured car and aero engine production; the post WWII four- and six-cylinder cars; the Leonides post-World War II aero engines and finally, the post-World War II military vehicles.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides an easy-to-follow practical guide to the maintenance, repair and modification of the different types of suspension used in cars. With over 170 illustrations, including colour photographs and diagrams, this practical book explains what suspension is and why it is needed; it reviews the different types of suspension of available; it covers the key maintenance and repairs that an owner can undertake, and finally, describes modifications in detail with step-by-step photographs.

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Book SynopsisVauxhalls held a special place in the British motoring scene of the mid-twentieth century. Solid, reliable and respectable, they were carefully designed to meet the expectations of buyers and also to meet the global ambitions of General Motors in America, the company that owned the Vauxhall marque. The book covers just over two decades of Vauxhall history, between the late 1950s and the late 1970s, that saw Vauxhall producing a succession of fondly remembered models, including some genuine classics. This new book features the styling, engineering and specification changes introduced over the lifetime of the Victor, Cresta and Viva ranges, and their offshoots. It gives full technical specifications of each model and includes a special examination of engine development in this period. Finally, there is advice about buying each of these models.

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Book SynopsisJohn Haynes - The man behind the manuals., This fascinating and inspiring biography of John H Haynes – the man behind Haynes Manuals – looks 'under the bonnet' at his extraordinary life, and his legacy to the motoring world. This is the story of how one man's vision and enthusiasm gave a small enterprise in rural Somerset a global footprint., The author, Ned Temko, has spent many hours with the Haynes family, uncovering the rich and varied life that passionate motoring enthusiast John Haynes led. The story begins with John's childhood in Ceylon and his school days – when as a young entrepreneur he sowed the seeds for what would become the iconic Haynes car-repair manuals – to his time as a young RAF officer, and then as the driving force behind the growth of the iconic Haynes brand and the Haynes International Motor Museum., What makes John's story especially compelling is that the idea for his car Owners' Workshop Manuals didn't emerge fully formed. It wasn't a product of business school, or consumer focus groups. Just as the roots of Steve Jobs's Apple Mac can be traced to his personal urge to build the most perfect personal computer he could imagine, Haynes's journey began when, as a teenaged schoolboy, he was dead set on figuring out how to turn the remains of an old Austin he'd found in a scrap yard into a fully working sports car. The simple booklet he produced about building this 750 Special was the spark that would eventually result in the building of a global brand. This biography will appeal not only to motoring enthusiasts, but a wider audience who will be intrigued by the story of the Haynes family and the business dynamics - exploring the evolution of a global, yet truly British company and brand, led and overseen by John Haynes for 59 years., Author: Ned Temko began his journalistic career in 1975, in post-revolutionary Portugal. After a brief posting in Brussels, he was based in Beirut, Moscow, Jerusalem and Johannesburg for the American newspaper The Christian Science Monitor before being transferred to London, where he has lived and worked since., He was editor at the Jewish Chronicle for 15 years, during which it won unprecedented national recognition. In 2005, he joined The Observer as its Chief Political Correspondent. Since 2008, while continuing to make broadcast appearances as an analyst and commentator on the BBC and Sky, he has ghosted and edited a number of political memoirs and business books. He is also the author of To Win or To Die, a biography of the former Israeli Prime Minister, Menachem Begin, and writes a regular international-affairs column for the Monitor.

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Book SynopsisCars are one of the most significant human creations. They changed our cities. They changed our lives. They changed everything. But in the next thirty years, this technology will itself change enormously. If Google get their way, are we all going to be ferried around in tiny electric bubble-cars? Or will we watch robots race a bionic Lewis Hamilton? And what about the future of classic cars?In Autopia, presenter of The Gadget Show and former executive producer of Top Gear Jon Bentley celebrates motoring's rich heritage and meets the engineers (and coders) who are transforming cars forever. From mobile hotel rooms to electric battery technology; from hydrogen-powered cars to jetpacks, Autopia is the essential guide to the future of our greatest invention. Fully designed with illustrations and photographs, this will be the perfect Christmas gift for car and technology enthusiasts everywhere.Trade ReviewAn interesting read... thorough enough to delight even those who consider themselves to be on the ball with industry developments. * Auto Express *Jon is a passionate, articulate and characteristic car man who has a canny knack of capturing the very essence of the sector I love so much! Exactly what he has done with Autopia. Brilliant. * Ant Anstead, presenter of Channel 4's For the Love of Cars *Jon Bentley is a true petrolhead. In Autopia, Jon makes even complex automotive innovations easy to understand. I couldn't put it down. * Mike Brewer, presenter of Wheeler Dealers *An enjoyable, fact-filled conversation with uncle Jon, taking us on a road trip through the speed bumps and detours on our journey towards an Autopian future. * Edd China, TV presenter and author of Grease Junkie *Intelligent, honest, and extremely interesting. Just like Jon. * Richard Porter, founder of Sniff Petrol, and script editor of The Grand Tour *Fascinating and entertaining. No one is better placed than Jon Bentley to open up the past, present and future of the motor car. * Tiff Needell, former presenter of Top Gear and Fifth Gear *Table of Contents0: Introduction: Why the Car Matters 1: Connected and Autonomous: the Rise of the Robot Cars 2: Sparking Innovation: Alternative Power and the Future of the Internal Combustion Engine 3: Designing the Future: How the Shape of Cars will Change 4: Speeding Ahead: the Future of Performance Cars and Motorsport 5: Hackers and Crash-Test Dummies: Safety and the Age of Automation 6: The Future of the Past: Classic Cars and Enthusiast Drivers 7: Conclusion: Is the Car Dead?

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Book SynopsisHaving this book in your pocket is just like having a real marque expert by your side. Benefit from Adrian Streather's years of Porsche Boxster and Cayman experience, learn how to spot a bad car quickly, and how to assess a promising one like a professional. Get the right car at the right price!Packed with good advice - from running costs, through paperwork, vital statistics, valuation, and the Boxster and Cayman community, to whether the car will suit you and your lifestyle - this is the complete guide to choosing, assessing and buying the Porsche of your dreams.Trade ReviewCould save you a fortune! Classic & Sports CarTable of ContentsIntroduction & ForewordContents 1. Is a 987 Boxster or Cayman right for you? 2. Cost considerations 3. Living with a Boxster or Cayman 4. Relative values 5. Before you view 6. Inspection equipment 7. Fifteen minute evaluation 8. Key points 9. Serious evaluation 10. Auctions 11. Paperwork 12. What's it worth? 13. Do you really want to restore? 14. Paint problems 15. Lack of use problems 16. The 987 Boxster and Cayman community 17. Vital statistics Index

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Book SynopsisBugatti - The 8-cylinder Touring Cars 1920-34 is a detailed study of the medium sized touring cars in the extensive range built by Bugatti during the fifteen years following World War I. Aspects of design and development are considered together with pictures of components and chassis commencing with the Type 28 and culminating with the Type 49. These cars represented the bulk of production and typify the Bugatti style and design, which was the basis of the company's unique standing in the field of automobile engineering.Over 150 different cars are depicted via 200 principally contemporary photographs, many of which have not been published before. The works of many different coachbuilders, throughout Europe, built upon these chassis are illustrated together with tables showing their market position compared with other makes and models, which were competitors.A study of the performance of these cars in competition is included together with a survey of the fall and rise in values over eight decades. The book represents an important addition to the series already produced by Veloce covering models Type 40, Types 46/50 and Types 57/57S. The royalties pass to the Bugatti Trust, a foundation dedicated to the study of the works of Ettore Bugatti and the furtherance of aesthetics in engineering design.Trade ReviewAn interesting book The Bugatti Review; Veloce too the good initiative to re-offer the book a=on the Bugatti 8-cylinder types in its Classic Reprint Series. This time with soft cover, though, with more than 200 pictures and drawings. A must for those who would like to know more about the La Marque's successful touring cars!- Autoliefhebbers; Veloce's softback reprint is well illustrated with contemporary and recent images. The former are especially engaging, with some bodywork designs being from the Voisin school of form over function, and others almost the frumpy. Most, however, were pleasingly elegant and lacking the thuggishness of so many same-era Bentleys. As an introduction, it fulfils the role more than adequately. - Classic Car Weekly. Owners and Bugattists who really want everything from their brand will buy this. - Klassiek & Techniek. This delightful book is a pictorial history of the post WW1 8 cylinder touring cars that were the most successful Bugatti models until the advent of the Type 57. What makes the book so interesting ate the numbers period photographs that allow us to se the unique coachwork used on these 8 cylinder touring cars. Not much has been written on these important cars, and the 2550 produced of these models accounts for one third of the approximately 7830 Bugattis made. This is another of Veloce Publishings quality automotive books that is very reasonably priced and should be added to every Bugatti enthusiasts collection. – Pur Sang.

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Book SynopsisIn May 1935, twenty-two-year-old Max Reisch and nineteen-year-old Helmuth Hahmann set out in a small motor car to find a land route from India to China. Their journey across Asia took them from Haifa to Tokyo.In this lively account, the author regales us with one story after another, struck with wonder or struggling against disaster in countries which deeply concern us today: Iraq with its oilfields, ancient Iran in the throes of modernisation, proud Afghanistan, and British India with its stunning variety of civilisation.Before the building of the Burma Road, driving from India to southern China meant sinking over the axles in mud on forest tracks and crossing torrents on rickety ferryboats. It also meant encounters with strange and fascinating peoples and places. With war already on the horizon, Reisch and Hahmann completed their round-the-world trip via Japan and the United States, arriving back in Vienna in December 1936.Originally written by Max Reisch in German, this brand new English translation by Alison Falls captures all the excitement of the journey, and features fascinating historical photos of the journey from the Reisch archives.Trade ReviewMax Reisch's story telling is detailed and his style is an easy read, conversational and witty, aided no doubt with brilliant translation by Alison Falls. She brings the German text to an English audience, ensuring it remained free-flowing and exciting. This journey certainly was incredible and totally absorbing 80 years on; fully capturing the essence of adventure with pre-war cultures (many of which have disappeared) all enjoyed from the seat of a small Austrian motor car. A real `Boys Own' adventure featuring two young men who took a camera and drive around the world. - Grant Ford, Freelance. Reisch and his travelling companion, 19-year old Helmuth Hahmann, took the (literally and metaphorically) rough with the smooth along the way, and their approach to the locals was clearly one of respect and interest. That approach is explained thourghout the book and today's trustafarian travellers could do well to take note. Numerous visits to collect visas, source fuel, repair the car, and be feted at numerous soirees add to the story's flavour, making this far, far more than just a travelogue. Plaudits should be given not only to Reisch, whose enthusiasm brought the journey to fruition, but to translator Alison Falls, who has managed to preserve the trip's flavour without the stilted prose too many translated books suffer from. The result is an uplifting read ideal for both those with wanderlust, and those with an interest in cars. - on-magazine.co.uk. The book, An Incredible Journey: The Lost World of the 1930s Circled by Two Men in One Small Car, captures all the excitement of the journey including crossing torrents on rickety ferryboats, sinking over the axles on forest tracks and encountering strange and fascinating people and places. The enthralling text is backed up by a wealth of fascinating historical photographs taken during the adventure. The book will hold the attention of the reader as they discover a very different world of that of today. - Irish Vintage Scene. First published in Austria in 1984, this story of a remarkable overland journey is now available in English in a 288-pages softcover book. With its very good selection of black and white photos of people and places they came across, this is a fascinating account of a true motoring adventure! - Classic Driver Monthly. The 288-page paperback, with lots of great black and white photos, is a terrific adventure story and fun read, and worth a spot in the library of any classic car enthusiast. - Classic MGa wonderful book ... To be honest, the book is as delightful and interesting as a record of a lost world as it is a motoring journal ... I review a lot of books; this will remain one of my favourites. Hagerty Classic Cars newsletterTable of ContentsPreface by Peter ReischChapter 1 - Bitter pills, new plansChapter 2 - Four wheelsChapter 3 - The oil road to BaghdadChapter 4 - The lizard huntChapter 5 - Where the dead crowd close to AllahChapter 6 - Dust to dustChapter 7 - Foreign devilsChapter 8 - UrlajatChapter 9 - Hungarian Afghans, Bavarian AfghansChapter 10 - Closer to IndiaChapter 11 - KashmirChapter 12 - End of the first stageChapter 13 - The land of the smiling BuddhaChapter 14 - The Agency comes to callChapter 15 - Deep in the jungleChapter 16 - Folk festival at Inle lakeChapter 17 - Special deliveryChapter 18 - Dead prince and living princeChapter 19 - Honour the yellow robeChapter 20 - Laughing with SimbaChapter 21 - Two motorcycle fiendsChapter 22 - Success at lastChapter 23 - Held up in HanoiChapter 24 - Old Mr. Lai ShiChapter 25 - Motor car versus evil spiritsChapter 26 - In China it's differentChapter 27 - A war zoneChapter 28 - What Marco Polo sawChapter 29 - ShanghaiChapter 30 - Problems for the foreign visitorChapter 31 - "Yuku michi" in the land of delightsChapter 32 - The long goodbyeChapter 33 - Crossing AmericaChapter 34 - The collectorChapter 35 - Mexico to Salzburg: disaster strikes!Chapter 36 - Epilogue: the story continuesAppendix - Some notes on the Steyr 100 car

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Book SynopsisAn entertaining collection of true stories that feature just a few of the products manufactured by the Austin Motor Company from 1906 until the outbreak of the Second World War, including the people who helped to make them, those who drove them, and even those who flew them. Although the history of the Austin Seven and Taxicabs have been covered before in much greater detail elsewhere, you will find within these pages the stories of many other Austin creations: the Austin 12/6 which could be won by smoking Kensitas cigarettes; the Austin 20 which competed in the 1914 Austrian Alpine Trial; the remarkable racing car named `Pobble' which went on to serve as an ambulance during the First World War, and the Australian couple who, in 1926, decided to drive their Austin Twelve right around Australia. The Music Hall artist, George Clarke, who performed on stage with his Austin Seven, and the `Austin Unity Song,' a recording of which was presented to guests at the Company's Annual dinner, are just two more fascinating stories which go to make up this Austin Anthology.Trade ReviewLovers of motoring history, especially when imparted in such a charming manner, will adore this little hardback book. In a mere 112pp, it tells an Austin fan's most engaging shirt stories about products emerging from the lines at Longbridge, Birmingham, the sometime home to the British car brand once owned by Herbert Austin. In a timeline that covers the origins of the company in 1905, up to the end of the Greta War and a little bit beyond, the tales of local murder, the bi plane compact enough to park in a domestic garage, the Austin Twelve that lapped Australia in 1926 and just what did happen to pensioned off taxi cabs are covered in cheery details, complete with humorous recollections and intriguing conclusions. It exceptionally well written and accompanied by a wealth of monochrome plates and period illustrations. It is not intended to be a history book, although much of its content is historically relevant. There is as much local detail, as international intrigue and it is not a model by model encyclopaedia of Austin but it does provide a valuable insight to the British firm's enterprise at an early stage of its existence. It is one of those books that is as easy to put aside, as it is to pick up and read, but you will come back to it, because of its sheer readability. - Iain P W Robertson. As a reader I have an interest in Pre War cars and owning an Austin Seven, Austin is of particular interest. James; new book is a well written selection of some of the less known history surrounding Austin, some of the history I was aware of, but the book cleared up some of the detail for me. The book not only covers the automotive side of Austin but also covers some of the side history around the people and other forms of their production such as planes. The book features a number of photos which have not been seen for some time and help to bring the history alive, along with the authors notes which as a reader I found informative and in some cases amusing. Well worth reading for anyone interested in Austin or Pre War Cars. – Dorset Austin 7 Club Magazine. James Stringer's little book is packed with tales documenting those early days if Austin history and is bound to provide enjoyable reading for those with a penchant for an altogether more leisurely era of motoring. – Speedscene.Table of Contents1. Mr Harry 2. The Austin Whippet 3. A flight into the unknown 4. An Austin named `Pobble' 5. Herbert Austin and the Mckenna duties 6. George Clarke. The silly ass 7. The 40hp Austin 8. Murder at the village 9. Testing the Austin 12/4 10. The Austin Unity Song 11. The Kensitas car 12. The ubiquitous Ausitn Seven 13. The pantomime 14. Vernon Austin 15. Touring around Australia in an Austin 12/4 16. Albert Ball V.C. 17. The Wedge 18. TAXI 19. The 1914 Austrian Alpine Trial

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Book SynopsisThe Datsun Z Sports car is the best selling sports coupe in the world. Most people have been touched by one at some point in their lives. You may have owned one when they were new and regretted selling it. Maybe you remember your friends' Zs, and always longed for one but thought the task to find a good 240Z too difficult. This book will give you the knowledge and confidence to go out there and find your Z. With advice on finding, assessing, and buying a Datsun 240Z, including a unique scoring system to evaluate a potential purchase, as well as tips on buying at auction, checking the paperwork and much more, this book is THE essential guide.Trade ReviewIt's hard to believe that Veloce has only just got around to publishing one of its long-running series of buyer's guides on the 240Z But that's probably a reflection of how the Datsun has transformed from being an unappreciated Japanese throwaway to a bona fide classic, over the past decade or so. Newly has clearly been interested in these cars far longer than that, however, with his expertise in trim levels and so on being particularly impressive. This is a must-buy if you are looking to get a 240Z as your next classic. - Classic Car Weekly. This book does have lots of inside information on what to look for when choosing a Datsun 240Z, some history and specification details. Author Jon Newlyn knows his Zs; he was instrumental in setting up the Classic Z Register, become Chairman in 1998 and remains so today. His book really does cover the bits you need to know what searching for a 240Z. If you're serious in your search - for a potentially rally base, or even a road car, investing in this book to get proper knowledge is a very small price to pay if you luck-in to that perfect car for you. - IRDC Quattro. This Essential Buyer's Guide is a little different from most in that it only covers one models, across a fairly short production run (1969-'73). That means it's able to go into far greater depth than many of these broad-brush volumes, from its history to a highly detailed, hour-long evaluation of a potential purchase. An invaluable companion for any buyer. – Classic & Sports Car.

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Book SynopsisThe story of Ford's original, home-grown small cars, the Mustang II and Pinto. Follow their progress through a difficult decade when Henry took on the imports, battled bureaucracy and gave America the economy and sports luxury subcompacts they wanted. This book details the successful design, building and sale of these small American Fords that faced domestic and foreign rivals. Mustang II and Pinto went through many permutations, appearance and performance packages - options that have helped the cars become collectible classics, and are prime examples of the decade the pony car survived. Going beyond stock standard were the customizers and racers that pushed the cars and their designs to the limit. Mustang II and Pinto graced enthusiast car magazine covers, and became stars in TV and films. They were small cars that made a big impact, and kept the Mustang galloping. Marc Cranswick draws on his lifelong passion for iconic American cars and this book delivers another unique insight into these models. His other books include Ford Midsize Muscle - Fairlane, Torino & Ranchero; MOPAR Muscle - Barracuda, Dart & Valiant; and Pontiac Firebird - The Auto-Biography.Trade ReviewThe book is a must-read for anyone keen on US auto history - Classic Car Weekly. --- Marc Cranswick draws on his lifelong passion for iconic American cars and this book delivers another unique insight into these models - Mustang Round-up. --- You'll look at Mustang IIs and Pintos differently after reading this--Classic Cars. --- This book was a wonderfully nostalgic look at the automotive experience of the 1970s. The photos are beautifully done, feature good detail and variety, and keep the book visually interesting on every page. My highest recommendation as an outstanding reference and an enjoyable reading experience. - IPMS/USA Journal. --- Make your own decisions after reading this informative and well-written biography of two of Ford’s less loved cars - Classic AmericanTable of ContentsIntroduction - Dearborn discovers small cars 1. Mustang II - Henry's new Deuce 2. Sporty Mustang II - The Pony becomes a Cobra 3. Ford Pinto - Dearborn's own subcompact 4. Total performance - Ford Pinto goes racing Appendix A - The Sudden Death Mustang II Appendix B - Pavement Pounder Pinto - V8 Street & Cruise Night Special Appendix C - Famous & Infamous Pintos Appendix D - Pinto Safety - Unfairly accused Appendix E - Ford items of interest Appendix F - Pangra - What Pinto is this?

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Book SynopsisHaving this book in your pocket is just like having a real marque expert by your side. Benefit from James Taylor's years of experience with the Land Rover Discovery, learn how to spot a bad example quickly, and how to assess a promising one like a professional. Get the right Series II Discovery at the right price! Packed with good advice - from running costs, through paperwork, vital statistics, valuation, and the Land Rover community, to whether a Series II Discovery will suit you and your lifestyle - this is THE COMPLETE GUIDE to choosing, assessing and buying the right Discovery for you.Trade ReviewThis book is a guide to buying a Discovery 2 and this fits in nicely along with the other titles. This book is unbiased and extremely useful to the person looking to buy one of these popular vehicles. If you are thinking of buying one of these vehicles, before you do, I strongly recommend you get this book first. - The Magazine. It's almost 15 years since the last Land Rover Discovery II was built, so it's now acquired classic stars, even without the benefit of the Allegro door handles that made the first generation stand out. Sturdy as these vehicle are, there's also much to go wrong, given their rough 'n' tumble usage. CCW contributor, James Taylor's buyer book is a knowledgeable guide to evaluating a potential purchase. Well illustrated, to show you exactly what to look for, this is a complete analysis. Spending the money on this book now could save you a lot in the future. - Classic Car Weekly. it’s compact, concise and genuinely useful Auto Express

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Book SynopsisThe fascinating biography of David Scott-Moncrieff, alias `Bunty' - a colourful larger-than-life personality, enthusiastic car expert, charming entertainer, and passionate vintage car addict. Bunty's favourite marque was Rolls-Royce, and, for some time, he claimed to be the Number 1 in the Rolls-Royce second-hand car trade worldwide. Bunty also owned world-famous race cars, heaps of worn-out hearses (to be rebuilt), supercharged Mercedes classics, and even an antique Steamer. Here, you will meet them all, along with some of his many admirers who had the courage and pleasure to enter the passenger seat. Halwart Schrader travelled to England to meet Bunty on many occasions, knew him well. and has written this long-awaited biography in full co-operation with Bunty's son, Humphrey Scott-Moncrieff.Trade ReviewA good read. Auto Express -- As a portrayal of a way of life which won't come again, this book is recommended. NZRR&BC Magazine -- An endearing - and enduring - read for long-standing members of the vintage car club scene. Classic Car Weekly -- If you want to immerse yourself in the type of eccentric motoring (and occasionally boating) life that we won't see again, this 216-page soft-cover should do the trick. Classic Driverit’s -- plenty entertaining! SpeedReaders---It is an hilarious romp from start to finish and guaranteed to chase off any lingering blues ... Bunty had triumphed again---Big End/All TorqueTable of ContentsContents Foreword by Gregor Fisken A name of renown Visitors From England. O Tannenbaum! Chips but no Fish "Call Me Bunty" A Rolls-Royce... what a temptation Brave and Quite The Swimmer! A Passion for Cars Attributed to his Mother Inkwells Were Flying occasionally... Escape From A Police Raid In A Dinner Jacket Uncle Horace's Corrupting Influence Purveyor to the Nobility and Gentry No Knothole for the Backside of a Carousel Horse The Maharaja's improper Wish A Talented Stuntman Fun On The Backseat With Loreley A valuable Car For A One-Night Stand A Gentleman Has Come To Warn Stalin Kiss your Hand, Herr Hitler! Thinking About Getting Married An Everlasting Love For Mercedes Do Girls' Shirts Burn Brighter? London's Traffic was Brought To A Standstill A Young Lady From A decent Family The Spy With The Diamond In The Soap Into Exile With A 12-Cylinder Motor Car Caught Behind, In Front Of, And Right Between The Crossfire Only A Two-Pronged Fork A Motor Yacht, Or A Bugatti...? The Journey To Scandinavia Bunty's First Book Don't Just Give Up! Comrade Stalin Will Have To Wait Once A Bugatti, Always A Bugatti Flirting With Daimler-Benz Bunty's Life In The Countryside Chicken Farming, Piglet Fattening, Mercedes Dreaming Bill Boddy's Visit To the Squirearchy Through Cowpat In a TVR A Soft Spot also For Lagonda A Fascinating, Insufferable Boss Life's Handicaps The Weeping Worm and a Rather Bitty Beer! 500 Ten-Dollar Notes Down The Trousers Out And About With The Dashing Charlotte Hearses Never Bite The Dust No Viewing Pleasure Whatsoever Would You Be A Sweetie? Introducing Timothy, The Glass-Eater The Ambassador Of British Automotive Culture An Opportunity Overslept The Customs Catastrophe The Echoes Of Umtata Taking The Tow Truck To Church Bunty rules the waves Onwards To Vienna - For The Red Light District? Bunty Discovers His Passion For Citroen A Little Border incident No Rolls-Royce On The South Pacific Atoll Travelling Australia In A Gullwing Engine-Knocking Knockers There's No Fool Like An Old Fool A Girl named RosemaryTo India For Permanent Care? Bad Eyes, Bad Circulation, Bad Memory Peking-Paris at last? No Help From The Helpful Dragon One Final Dream Is Fulfilled "We Never Close!" PHOTO CREDITS

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Book SynopsisWant to upgrade/update your cars electronic systems, but don't know how? Here's the solution! Cars of the 1990s and 2000s are from a golden era - they've got sufficient electronic systems to achieve great outcomes, but they're not so complex that they're impossible to modify. The missing link, until now, has been a hands-on manual on how to achieve those results. Well, here it is! This book covers everything from cheap modifications that allow you to adjust engine fuelling and ignition timing, to modifying car systems like power steering and even stability control. Easy upgrades to lighting, sound systems and the dashboard - right through to fitting and tuning programmable engine management. Photos and circuit diagrams guide you each step of the way. All the car modifications are practical, and have been tried and tested by the author. From a 660cc turbo front-wheel drive screaming to 8500rpm on standard engine management but with big injectors... to a DOHC V8 rear-wheel drive with modified traction control... to a twin-turbo all-wheel drive with a custom torque split controller. Even modifying the re-gen braking on a hybrid! This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to exploit the true electronic potential of their 1990s-2000s cars.Trade ReviewThe author has a knack of describing complex subjects in understandable prose and his latest book is no exception - SpeedsceneTable of ContentsChapter 1 - Electronic modification Chapter 2 - Overview of engine management Chapter 3 - Engine management interceptors Chapter 4 - Programmable engine management Chapter 5 - Other engine bay modifications Chapter 6 - Modifying other electronic control systems Chapter 7 - Modifying sound systems Chapter 8 - Upgrading lighting Chapter 9 - Upgrading dashboards, instruments and warnings Chapter 10 - Improving convenience and security

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Book SynopsisHaving this book in your pocket is just like having a real marque expert by your side. Benefit from James Taylor's years of Range Rover ownership and experience, learn how to spot a bad example quickly, and how to assess a promising one like a professional. Get the right Range Rover at the right price! This buyer's guide focuses on the second generation Range Rovers, produced between 1994 and 2001. Packed with good advice - from running costs, through paperwork, vital statistics, valuation, and the Range Rover community, to whether a second generation Range Rover will suit you and your lifestyle - this is THE COMPLETE GUIDE to choosing, assessing and buying the Range Rover of your dreams.Trade Reviewplenty of sound advice contained in a small package--Auto Express. It's 14 quid very well spent--Octane (UK). If you can't resist the temptation, this is a great way to help navigate a safe buying route--Classic Car Weekly. this new book from James Taylor will help you bag a good one. It's crammed with buying advice, tech specs and a price guide--Land Rover Owner International. Here's one of those little buyers' guide that Veloce does do well. If you want one of these [vehicles], this is the book for you. – TKC.Table of ContentsIntroduction & Foreword Contents Is a 2nd generation Range Rover right for you? Cost considerations Living with a Range Rover Relative values Before you view Inspection equipment Fifteen minute evaluation Key points Serious evaluation Auctions Paperwork What's it worth? Do you really want to restore? Paint problems Lack of use problems The Range Rover community Vital statistics Index

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Book SynopsisWith an original approach, this book chronicles every model and lists every chassis number ever produced by Alvis, one of the great British manufacturers. It details famous owners and drivers, notable number plates, and is illustrated with original period photographs, and depictions of Alvis cars in the humorous cartoons of the day. The Alvis car has always seemed to appeal to a type of buyer who has made their mark upon society in a variety of ways. This 'social history' aspect of the book looks at the many Alvis owners from the world of politics, stage and screen, sport, the armed forces, medicine, and the arts. These range from a King to a serial killer, and every variation in between. The book has been written with full cooperation and approval of the Alvis Company, and is the result of much research by the author and other enthusiasts, who have managed to allocate a very large number of registration marks to chassis, by trawling County Archive Record Offices up and down the country, thus creating a unique record that will be a valuable resource for owners and collectors.Table of Contents1. The vintage period (1920-1932) 2. The post-vintage period (1932-1940) 3. The post-war period (1945-1967) Alivs Humour - a short postscript of Alvis-related cartoons, quotes etc.

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This guide tells you everything you need to know when considering a potential purchase of the car that evolved to become the powerful, technically complex and aggressive Lancia Delta Integrale EVO, a car that consistently won the Rally World Championship from 1987 to 1992, and has now attained cult status. Fully illustrated, with a unique evaluation guide, and valuable advice on cost, documentation, restoration, club support and more, this Essential Buyer's Guide provides you with practical information from a marque expert on how to seek out a good example.

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Book SynopsisChevrolet was Number One in the sales race. If you needed a car, chances are Chevrolet made it. However, in 1964 there arose a problem. Some guy at Ford came up with a car called the Mustang, maybe you've heard of it? But don't worry, Chevrolet had a solution called the Camaro. In racing, where you are on lap one, isn't nearly as important as your position when the checkered flag falls. By 1981, Camaro was so far in front of Mustang, Henry needed binoculars to see the Z28's taillights! Camaro was part of the speed shop scene, modified by the most famous names of the muscle car era. In racing, Chevrolet's pony left no stone unturned, inside and outside America. With the fuel crisis, insurance, and inflation, America sought a new kind of coupe. The Bowtie boys even outsold Mustang, with that Z28 having the upper hand in the Chevrolet versus Ford rivalry. Chevrolet's dedicated coupe even outfoxed Ford's sedan based Mustang. If the Corvette is the King of American Sportscars, then 'The Hugger' must be the Prince of Ponies!Trade Reviewa well priced book, with a lot of detail - www.silhouet.com --- there's plenty for fans of American muscle to like - Auto Express --- This is an everything-you-need-to-know sort of book on the first two generations of the Chevrolet Camaro ... Marc Cranswick bursts with knowledge ... A 184-page hard (if quite large print) with plenty of colour photography, it justifies its price. - Classic Car Weekly --- Packed with information, this book should appeal to dyed-in-the-wool Camaro enthusiasts - Classic Driver --- A fascinating snapshot - and nothing you'd get in a GM-authorised official history of the car. - Classic Cars --- a worthy reference book - Octane (UK)Table of ContentsForeword Introduction Chapter 1 Chevrolet Camaro - The Original (1967-69) Chapter 2 - The Hugger goes pacing & road course racing Chapter 3 Big Blocks, Speed Shops & 1/4 mile Chapter 4 - The Exotic 2nd Gen Camaro (1970-74) Chapter 5 On The Right Track - 2nd gen racing Chapter 6 - Surviving & Thriving 1975-1981 Appendix A - Camaro Z28 - Chevrolet's Four Aces Appendix B - Chevrolet Items of Interest Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisFord and Mercury sold well over 2.5 million of their fantastic 'Fox-body' Mustang and Capri sports coupes, hatches and convertibles over a 15-year lifespan, but with the youngest among them currently approaching their 30th birthday, the years will have taken their toll. With Foxes now taking their place among their predecessors in the classic Mustang pantheon, and prices on the rise, this is the time to buy. They've passed through their 'cheap clunker' phase, and this book looks at the Fox Mustang/Capri for the 21st century. Whether you're searching for a daily driver or a cosseted investment; a 'survivor' or a highly-modified custom; a cruiser or a drag-strip warrior, this book looks at the common issues and rust spots, the most desirable years, specifications and options, and how to find, buy, maintain and enjoy the right Fox for you. Author Dave Smith is a motoring journalist and Fox owner, builder and enthusiast, and with help from other enthusiasts and experts, has put together a pocket guide that will be indispensable for the prospective Fox buyer!Table of ContentsIntroduction & Foreword Contents 1 Is a 3rd generation Mustang right for you? 2 Cost considerations 3 Living with a Mustang 4 Relative values 5 Before you view 6 Inspection equipment 7 Fifteen minute evaluation 8 Key points 9 Serious evaluation 10 Auctions 11 Paperwork 12 What's it worth? 13 Do you really want to restore? 14 Paint problems 15 Lack of use problems 16 The Ford Mustang community 17 Vital statistics Index

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Book SynopsisVirtually from the moment of its launch in April, 1964, the Ford Mustang has been a favorite among road racers. From the Tour de France, to production sports car racing, the SCCA Trans-Am series, regional and national A/Sedan competitions, and international and domestic sedan championships in Great Britain, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, the Mustang has enjoyed a following like few other models. This book is a photographic celebration of road racing Mustangs throughout the world. It focuses on production-based cars, rather than the heavily modified tube-frame silhouette machines that began appearing in the late 1970s. Included are images of big-budget factory-supported cars competing in the Trans-Am series, right through to low-buck independents, and cars competing throughout the world. Using only period images, including countless photos that have never before been published, this is a true photographic history, depicting the global popularity of the Ford Mustang as a road racing car.Trade ReviewAll in all, a very nicely done book, well worth the price. - The Shelby AmericanTable of ContentsAbout this book Acknowledgements Introduction Chapter 1: 1964 Chapter 2: 1965 Chapter 3: 1966 Chapter 4: 1967 Chapter 5: 1968 Chapter 6: 1969 Chapter 7: 1970 Chapter 8: 1971 Chapter 9: 1972 Chapter 10: 1973-1986 Epilogue Index

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Book SynopsisThis history of the Lotus Evora traces the genesis, context, manufacture and evolution of the Type 122 Evora and its derivative models.The Evora's prowess as a grand touring sports car is demonstrated with the author's international road trips, and its essence is detailed through in-depth interviews with leading personalities at Lotus involved with the design, development, construction and marketing programmes. The book concludes with the launch of the Evora's successor, the Type 131 Emira in 2021. Johnny Tipler has a long association with the Lotus marque, having run the John Player Team Lotus Motorsport Press Office during the halcyon JPS era, as recounted in his 2019 book 'Black and Gold'. He has authored many automotive books, notably on the Lotus Elise, and also wrote for the Club Lotus International publication between 2005 and 2011. He is a good friend of Classic Team Lotus boss Clive Chapman (son of the Lotus founder Colin Chapman) and regularly attends historic races such as the Goodwood Revival where CTL's F1 Lotuses are in action.Table of ContentsContents Foreword Timeline Introduction Acknowledgements Chapter 1 Rising to the Challenge Chapter 2 Chassis and Suspension Chapter 3 Powertrain: the engine and gearbox Chapter 4 Driving dynamics Chapter 5 Production Line, body and trim Chapter 6 On test: proof of the pudding Chapter 7: Sales and marketing Chapter 8: Road tripping Chapter 9: The Emira descendent

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Book SynopsisNew paperback edition! There are still those who see the Porsche 914 model as a ‘funny little car,’ compared to the immortal 911. Granted, in its day, professional rally drivers were not keen on the 914: they were nervous driving it at the limit. Yet the records show that 914s were driven to at least 41 class wins, and at least 71 positions on the other two steps of the podium in Regional, National, and International Rallies. Racing on the circuits of Europe, 914s came home first in their class, and even took overall victory many times. In the USA, in IMSA GTU championship, in nationals, and internationals, it was the same story – and that’s not counting the multitude of SCCA regional races. The 914 first raced in 1970 … the last? Who knows: even now they’re still used in the USA’s SCCA GT classes. 'Porsche – the Racing 914s' is a study in pictures, statistics, factory information, and interviews, that will show the Porsche 914 in a whole new light. This richly illustrated book is released as a limited edition of only 1500 copies - a must have for all Porsche 914 and racing enthusiasts.Table of ContentsForeword - Günther Steckkönig Introduction - Author Chapter 1- Centre of attention – the mid engine idea Chapter 2- 1967-1976 the road cars - concept – design – politics and production Chapter 3- The competition begins 1970 Chapter 4- Good times-Racing in Europe 1971 Chapter 5- Rescue-The first safety car Chapter 6- Privateer time – Racing in Europe 1972-1976 Chapter 7- Tarmac and dust- The rallying story Chapter 8- Big country - Racing in the USA 1970 to 1975 Chapter 9- What came after Europe and the USA 1976 onwards Chapter 10- The Statistics- Performance results Appendix

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Book SynopsisThis new book by motoring journalist Alan Anderson follows on from Going Classic, to explore the world of historic motorsport and race and rally cars from the 1950s to the 1990s. This vibrant new book looks back at those days, and presents fifty of the most successful classic race and rally cars from across this period, considering why these motoring legends still make front runners in historic motorsport, one of the fastest-growing, most enjoyable and affordable classes of motor racing. My Dad Raced One of Those is a nostalgic look back at classic cars in motorsport across the different disciplines of Race, Rally, Autotests, Hillclimbs, Trails and Rallycross, and should satisfy and intrigue both the classic car enthusiast and (especially historic) lovers of motorsport.

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Book Synopsis"American Station Wagons - The Golden Era 1950-1975" examines an important quarter century of this versatile vehicle, a time when it evolved into a practical, yet sometimes luxurious family transporter or business vehicle. This volume covers the histories of the major, minor and obscure station wagon manufacturers and models. While makes such as Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge and Plymouth dominated the US market, important roles were played by Oldsmobile, Buick, Mercury, and Chrysler in making the car more than mere basic transportation or a reliable workhorse. At the same time, makes such as Studebaker, Kaiser, Nash and AMC, etc. competed for a slice of this burgeoning postwar market, and were responsible for novel innovations in design. Contemporary brochures, period literature, factory photos and over fifty new, unpublished colour photos of restored examples help convey the importance of these historic vehicles. Also featured are images of rarer Canadian versions from American manufacturers.Trade Review-If you're thinking about buying an American estate then this book is a good place to begin your research. Good fun.- - Classic & Sports Car-Its 96 colorful pages are packed with photos - some of them taken especially for the book - and vintage ads from the author's own collection.- - blogs.canoe.ca -Welcome to the pre-downsizing world of some seriously big motor cars, all packed into a concise volume of just under 100 pages.- - Classic Cars -Great ads and brochure reprints made us want a '587 Packard Clipper wagon - 'A new ages of functional elegance arrives!' - and it's fascinating to see the change in ad styles over the decades. Inexpensive too.- - Octane -These quirky little softbacks are something of a pocket-sized breath of fresh air.- - American Car -With some potted history of each decade's developments and lengthy detailed captions, this is a treasure trove of mostly contemporary photos of wagons and woodies, plus reproductions of some wonderful brochure material. There's a lot to enjoy.- - NZ Classic Car

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Book SynopsisThis book gives classic/collector car owners the information necessary to make an appropriate and safe choice of lubricants from the vast and sometimes overwhelming range available today.

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Book SynopsisWith this book, you can begin caring for your car like a professional, achieving dramatic and financially beneficial effects almost immediately. Written by the ‘undisputed king of car detailers,’ it teaches you the importance of using specific chemicals for specific tasks, how to properly clean wheels, paint decontamination, polishing paintwork, removing light scratches, waxing, interior maintenance, leather care, and much more. The step-by-step guides explain the purpose and importance of each process in a straightforward manner, and will help you carry out more complicated procedures – such as cleaning the engine bay – without causing any damage. With helpful illustrations and advice based on the author’s many years’ experience, this book will get your car looking great.

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Book SynopsisFord's legendary Sierra and Escort RS Cosworths changed the face of performance road cars, making them as desirable to keen drivers as they are to classic collectors. This quick-reference guide acts as a handy pocket-sized companion during the purchasing process. It aims to help buyers select the best car, pay the right price, and avoid the potential pitfalls. This one-stop package of great advice includes at-a-glance tips, illustrated in-depth inspection guidance, specifications, notes on modifications, and real-world cost considerations.Trade ReviewThis great series of 64 page pocket-sized books just keeps growing ... The author is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about these models, but he clearly wants to help you get the best one possible. Taking his advice is likely to save a lot of grief! Classic driver (monthly) All the mechanical and bodywork problems encountered in buying any secondhand car are covered in fully illustrated and specific detail for the models in question ... Together with tips which include buying at auction, restoration viability, general running and deciding just what the car is worth, this publication can indeed be considered an essential guide for anyone considering buying a second hand example of this 'classic' Ford. Speedscene

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Book SynopsisWith a history that spans more than 50 years, the Ford Mustang has become a living legend. Appealing to many for its varied options, muscular looks and stellar performance; the retro-styling of the fifth generation Mustang harks back to the heydays of the 1960s and early 1970s, when the Mustang became an instant hit with the American public upon its launch and proceeded to become a worldwide motoring icon. Arguably the best Ford Mustang produced to-date, the 2005-2014 Mustang (known as 'S197' by enthusiasts) is considered by many to already be a modern classic. From the fuel efficient V6, to powerful GT, and rocket-ship like Shelby GT500 models, there's a 2005-2014 Mustang to suit every motoring enthusiast. Providing an overview of the various models, their specifications, available options and associated running costs, the Essential Buyers Guide provides a great reference when looking to buy that Ford Mustang which has caught your eye. Packed with illustrative photographs and an extensive valuation check-list, this book can help give you greater confidence when determining if your planned purchase is a sound investment or not.Trade Reviewa pocket-sized book at a pocket-money price that could save a potential Mustang buyer from being clobbered in the ... erm, pocket. American Car Magazine Matt Cook's exhaustive guide follows a proven formula that even a complete novice could use to select a good buy, for a good price, on either side of the Atlantic. Classic Car Weekly Comprehensively put together with a cheeky sense of humour Auto Express It's nice when a product delivers what it promises as this book does - IPMS/USA JournalTable of ContentsIntroduction & Foreword Contents 1. Is it the right car for you? 2. Cost considerations 3. Living with a Mustang 4. Relative values 5. Before you view 6. Inspection equipment 7. Fifteen minute evaluation 8. Key points 9. Serious evaluation 10. Auctions 11. Paperwork 12. What's it worth? 13. Do you really want a project car? 14. Paint problems 15. Problems due to lack of use 16. The community 17. Vital statistics Index

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Book SynopsisThe last rotary-engined car built, Mazda's RX-8 provides a unique driving experience. Until you've tried one, it's hard to imagine how smooth its free-revving engine really is, or how enjoyable its handling. With comfortable space for four, it can be practical too.Like most Japanese cars, the RX-8 is generally well built, but the rotary engine can suffer from hot starting and rotor tip wear issues, which can prove expensive to put right. Extensive back-up from owner forums and independent specialists - listed in the guide - mean that these problems can be addressed, but choosing a good RX-8 requires care.This guide will help you do just that. Understand the differences between models, and learn what to look for when buying one. What are the true running costs, and does the need for a new engine mean the end to your dreams? What other issues - with the mechanicals, body or interior - should you look out for? Follow the advice of an experienced RX-8 owner and benefit from his research among owners and specialists in Europe and North America.Trade ReviewIt's packed with good advice, from expected running costs, paperwork, vital stats, valuation and expert views to help you chose the right RX-8 for you. tkc (Totalkitcar) give you expert advice essential if you're considering taking the plunge Practical Classics

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Book SynopsisRootes' Sunbeam Alpine sportscar was the flagship of its car range. Here, all the various models and production changes are described and illustrated in detail, along with what it's like to own, drive and live with an Alpine - one of the best engineered, stylish and practical cars of its time, and still satisfying to drive today.If you're thinking of buying an Alpine, this book will help you decide which model you really want, and learn exactly what to look for when you go to view a car. By using a thorough points-based assessment, you can decide with your head - not your heart - so you can better make the right decision, and pay the right price.Benefit from the author's forty years' of Alpine ownership experience and engineering expertise, all in one book!Trade ReviewA good-value guide that could be invaluable. Classic & Sports Car (UK) essential reading for any potential Alpine Buyer and is a welcome addition to the rather limited catalogue of other Alpine publications. The Alpine Horn ideal for existing owners and of course, if you are thinking of buying one at auction, privately or from a specialist. tkc (Totalkitcar)Table of ContentsIntroduction1. Is it the right car for you?2. Cost considerations3. Living with Sunbeam Alpine4. Relative values5. Before you view6. Inspection equipment7. Fifteen minute evaluation8. Key points9.. Serious evaluation10. Auctions11. Paperwork12. What's it worth?13. Do you really want to restore?14. Paint problems15. Problems due to lack of use16. The Community17. Vital statisticsIndex

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Book SynopsisAlways big on character and charm, Fiat''s little cars played an important international roll in providing affordable and practical private transport for millions who had previously thought their dream impossible.With particular emphasis on the now classic 600 and Nuova 500 cars, this book tells the full story of these ''baby'' Fiats. Built, and exported to, many countries outside of the marque''s native Italy, over 6.5 million Topolinos, 600s and Nuova 500s were sold, and an amazing number survive to this today. Also covered are the wonderful models built on these cars'' tiny chassis by Italy''s leading coachbuilders, and the motorsport success achieved by the Abarth versions of the little cars that everybody loves.Trade ReviewThis book unfolds the development and design of the baby Fiats 500 and 600. During the production there have been many changes in details, which you can find in this book, where the special body styles of the Weinsberg and the Jolly variants of Ghia, the Abarths, the Necker-Fiats and Steyr-Puchs are not forgotten. Prints of the original sales brochures brighten up the whole. In the back specifications and overviews of clubs. – Klassiek & Techniek.

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Book SynopsisThe stylist of the Austin Allegro, Harris Mann, said of the car that 'It took a lot of stick, but it wasn't that bad a car ... The trouble was that every one off the line was different in some way, thanks to quality control.' As a result, few have bothered to explore the little Austin's background; what it was designed to achieve, how it became the way it was, and what happened to make it so infamous. Austin Allegro - An Enthusiast's Guide redresses the balance, telling the Allegro's tale of grand designs, high hopes, management compromises, failed dreams, industrial unrest, national ridicule and finally, redemption. From the quietly competent series 2 models through to the sportily-styled and now very rare Equipe, the book re-evaluates the place of the Allegro in the classic car world and concludes that it is both a simple, economical classic choice, and an important part of British motoring history. Now experiencing something of a comeback as a cheap and cheerful classic, the book provides ownership advice and buying information for all models.

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Book SynopsisLime Rock Park, the oldest continuously operated road course in America came about more by accident than design. Construction of the course began in 1955 at a time when open road racing had been banned in many states, and the use of military and civil airport runways for racing was losing favor with the paying spectators. Dubbed ‘The Road Racing Center of the East’ the park has a turbulent history bedevilled by financial crises, discord with the SCCA New England Region and expensive court cases involving the Lime Rock Protective Association. Despite the struggle to keep the circuit afloat, it prevailed against all odds. This book narrates this history of mixed fortunes during the first twenty years of the park’s existence when it was under the ownership of four different people and contains material unseen before including over 900 images.

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Book SynopsisA small investment in this book could save you a fortune. With the aid of this book's step-by-step expert guidance, you will discover all you need to know about the car you want to buy. The unique point system will help you to place the car's value in relation to condition. Buying a classic VW Beetle is an important investment - don't buy one without this book's help. The authors, a recognised VW Beetle enthusiast and writer and a specialist photographer, cover all models from 1945 to 2003, including the Cabriolet, Standard and Deluxe and the final generation of Mexican Beetles.; Don't buy a car without this book!; Expert advice from a marque expert; Unique points scoring system to evaluate cars after inspection; Walk away or stay? - a quick initial evaluation of a car; How to check a car's authenticity; Which models are best?; Implications of restoration; Is it the right car for you?; Running costs; Don't buy a Beetle without this unique illustrated guide! Expert advice will help you find the best VW for your money.

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Book SynopsisFrom AC to Wolseley, this is the illustrated encyclopaedia of every make of British, European and American car sold in Britain during the 1930s. Some 1000 cars are illustrated and described in alphabetical order, by manufacturer. There are comprehensive notes on each model's production dates and numbers, recognition features, variants, strengths and weaknesses.

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Book SynopsisIn hundreds of pictures, the book gives you all the detail of correct factory specifications and equipment, including body panels, external trim and badging, paint colours, interior trim and colours, dashboard, instruments & switches, under-bonnet components, engine and transmission, lamps and all other features right down to the tool kit, from the beginning of production to the end. All of this information is vital to any buyer, owner and restorer. Each section opens with a brief text introduction followed by specially commissioned colour photographs with extended captions. For quick reference to accurate information, this formula is hard to beat.

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Book SynopsisOriginality guide including Cooper, Moke Hornet, Elf, van, pick up and estateNo car has had such a profound impact on the motoring scene as the original Mini. Designed in response to petrol shortages in the late 1950s, it was introduced in 1959 in both Austin and Morris guises, with either basic or De Luxe trim levels. Success came swiftly, and before long its makers at BMC were introducing van, pick-up and estate versions, high-performance Mini Coopers and higher equipment levels on the Mini Super. Right through the 1960s, the success story continued, and the original formula proved so right that the updated Mk II models of 1967 were instantly recognisable as versions of the original and much-loved car.These early Minis are as much admired and sought-after today as ever, offering their own unique blend of nimble driving pleasure with readily affordable running costs. They are also increasingly the subject of detailed, part-number-perfect restorations, and this book is designed to help all those who aim to restore one of these early British-built Minis to their correct specification. Within these pages, respected classic car historian James Taylor gives each major model of Mini its own section. These sections provide full details of specifications and examine individual areas of each model in depth. They are backed up by colour photography of outstanding examples that illustrate the way these cars looked when they were new. Body panels, external trim and badging, paint colours, interior trim, dashboard, instruments and controls, under-bonnet components, engine and transmission, lights - all this and more is comprehensively covered for both Mk I and Mk II Minis.For rapid reference to vital information, this formula has proved to be the most useful one for restorers. With more than 300 specially commissioned colour photographs, Factory-Original Mini will delight and enthral the restorer and the more casual Mini enthusiast alike.

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Book SynopsisGraham Robson is the doyen of writers on rallying. His new book joins his respected Works Triumphs and Works Escorts in our list. Here he tells of the story of Donald Healey’s introduction of the cars of his own make into the world of rallying and racing, from the Healey Elliott and Westland of the late 1940s through to the last racing Austin-Healey Sprite in 1967. In between he produced competition versions of the Austin-Healey 100 and 100S, the 100-6 and the gloriously successful 3000, a brutal and wayward machine that won countless international rallies in the 1960s in the hands of great drivers like Pat Moss, Timo Makinen, Rauno Aaltonen and Paddy Hopkirk, to name but a few. The author describes the career of each of the works cars individually: entries, drivers and results, with nearly all cars illustrated. In addition there is detailed colour photography of important surviving examples

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Book SynopsisFew marques inspire such enthusiasm as Alfa Romeo, and among its most celebrated jewels are undoubtedly its coupes and spiders, the sportiest members of an already sporty Alfa family. This book tells the full story of Alfa's two-door cars in the post-war era. It starts with the achingly handsome 6C 2500 and coachbuilt 1900s, followed by the glorious Giulietta Sprint, Spider and SZ. Then comes the host of Giulia models, from Bertone's Sprint GT and Pininfarina's Duetto to the racing GTA and TZ. Add in some rare V8s - 33 Stradale and Montreal - plus the Alfetta GT and the monstrous SZ/RZ, and Alfa's rich heritage is indisputable. It's all clearly detailed by a true authority on Italian cars, Chris Rees, editor of Auto Italia.

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Book SynopsisThe Land Rover was a huge success for its makers right from the start in 1948, when it was introduced as a product to keep the Rover factories busy in the difficult economic times that followed the Second World War. Developed with a speed that was remarkable even for the relatively unsophisticated vehicles of those days, it was regularly updated in both major and minor ways over the next five years as improvements be-came necessary or suggested themselves. It is the minutiae of those improvements - some intended to simplify build procedures and others to give the customers a better product - that lie at the heart of this book. For owners and enthusiasts who aim to restore an 80-inch model to its original, ex-factory specification, its pages aim to demystify the huge succession of changes that were made on the assembly lines, wherever possible not only recording what happened but also why. With the aid of Simon Clay's photography of some superb examples of the marque, correct details are shown on both complete vehicles and on some under restoration to give the dedicated enthusiast the knowledge needed for an accurate and satisfying restoration. In this book, enthusiast and leading Land Rover historian James Taylor is your guide to the multiple changes in specification that affected the 80-inch Land Rovers built between 1948 and 1953 and continue to excite debate among restorers today.

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Book SynopsisWith well over 250 photographs, many in colour by distinguished photographer Simon Clay, this book celebrates the style and flair of a bygone era, and provides a vital fund of information for the many enthusiasts and owners who care about these fine cars today. When Rolls-Royce introduced its new junior model, the Twenty, in 1922, there was no question of the company supplying coachwork for it. That was the job of the myriad specialist coachbuilding firms, large and small, both in Britain and overseas. Customers went to a coachbuilder of their choice, asked for what they wanted, and got it. It was a system that remained unchanged in principle throughout the period, as the Twenty gave way to the 20/25, that model in turn was succeeded by the 25/30, and the Wraith became the final junior Rolls-Royce before the Second World War brought a great and glamorous era to an end. The work of all these coachbuilders and many more is covered in this book, which for ease of understanding divides each coachbuilder’s creations up according to the host chassis and the different styles – saloon, limousine, drophead coupé, and so on. Rolls-Royce owners will particularly appreciate the inclusion of chassis numbers for all the cars bodied by each coachbuilder, a feature which makes this book a valuable reference work as well as a visual treat.

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Book SynopsisThis superb book tells the story of one of the most historically interesting of all Jaguar D-types, the XKD 504. This is a car that has raced more than any other D-type across its long and varied life, and this life is recounted in full. From its role as a works car used extensively for testing fuel injection, to two seasons of racing throughout Europe with Ecurie Ecosse, to four busy years of national competition in the hands of first Mike Salmon and then Peter Sutcliffe, it’s all here. This book provides fascinating insight into every aspect of this D-type’s history, supported by a fine collection of period photographs.

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Book SynopsisThe latest in the Exceptional Cars series tells the story of one of the two cars bought by The Automovil Club Argentino (ACA). Painted in the bright blue and yellow Argentine racing colours, 1600 was to play an important role in the Argentine team's international expeditions to Europe. Fangio won two races in the car, the most important being at Pau in 1950, where he repeated his win in the ACA sister car a year earlier. As well as a detailed chronicle of the car’s highs and lows, the text includes profiles of the drivers who raced in 1600 and a personal account of driving and running the car by a former owner who describes the daunting task of re-creating a Maserati 4CLT engine from scratch. 

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Book SynopsisFew, if any, Jaguar XK120s can have enjoyed a more fascinating and varied life than chassis number 660725. Just under two-thirds of the total production was allocated to the Roadster, which had caused such a stir at the 1948 London Motor Show. Of that, 660725 was one of just 1,173 right-hand-drive Roadsters constructed. 'Apart from now being the longest-serving XK120 owner, I also consider myself the most fortunate, lucky, accidental, blessed, providential – call it what you will – owner. Why? Because no fictional script writer could have come up with the number or variety of experiences, both dangerous and funny, in so many different countries and environments, that any combination of car and man would experience together.’ Bob Henderson, January 2013

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Book SynopsisAuthor Richard Heseltine untangles the Ghia Jaguar XK 120 Supersonic’s complicated backstory of British design brilliance and Italian design artistry. He reveals how Ghia wowed the car world with its jet-age styling, and introduces several fascinating characters whose names have peppered the post-war story of Italian car design, engineering and racing. Readers will discover how the original Supersonic was the work of Giovanni Sovanuzzi – the genius designer-engineer famous for the Cisitalia 202. Meanwhile, race team legend Virgilio Conrero was first to put fire in the Supersonic’s belly, while fiery Ghia chief Luigi Segre used the car to woo North America. In-depth background on Carrozzeria Ghia examines the Italian coachbuilder’s efforts to spread across Europe and ‘crack’ the US market. The birth of Supersonic design as an Alfa Romeo-powered GT is covered in great detail, and a fascinating line-up of other Italian-bodied Jaguar XK sports cars are examined and illustrated, as a way to compare and contrast the Supersonic with the work of other accomplished Italian designers. The history of chassis number 679768, is chronicled, recounting its elusive first owner, its lengthy periods hidden from public view, and its status today as the prized centrepiece in a private collection. Stunning contemporary photography of the car is mixed with rare and fascinating archive images.

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