Biographical sketches of the most famous Grand Prix and sports car racing builders:Sydney Allard, W. O. Bentley, A. C. Bertelli, Marc Birkigt, Ettore Bugatti, Colin Chapman, Louis Coatalen, Briggs Cunningham, Albert De Dion, Fred And August Duesenberg, Enzo Ferrari, Amédée Gordini, J. A. Grégoire, Donald Healey, Ernest Henry, Antoine Lago, Vincenzo Lancia, Albert Lory, The Maserati Brothers, Wilhelm Maybach, Laurence H. Pomeroy, Ferdinand Porsche, Georges Roesch, Harry C. Stutz, Rud...

“… This is a book for which lovers of the automobile have waited a long time: the most comprehensive text-and-picture history of the dual-purpose car since it came to life more than sixty years ago.As the authors of The Book of Sports Cars point out, “in the beginning they were all sports cars.” The automobile began its active life, whatever the intentions of its creators, as a new instrument of sport. Because the increasing demands of this sport imposed an ever-growing burden of te...

“… This is a book for which lovers of the automobile have waited a long time: the most comprehensive text-and-picture history of the dual-purpose car since it came to life more than sixty years ago.As the authors of The Book of Sports Cars point out, “in the beginning they were all sports cars.” The automobile began its active life, whatever the intentions of its creators, as a new instrument of sport. Because the increasing demands of this sport imposed an ever-growing burden of te...

“… This is a book for which lovers of the automobile have waited a long time: the most comprehensive text-and-picture history of the dual-purpose car since it came to life more than sixty years ago.As the authors of The Book of Sports Cars point out, “in the beginning they were all sports cars.” The automobile began its active life, whatever the intentions of its creators, as a new instrument of sport. Because the increasing demands of this sport imposed an ever-growing burden of te...

Originally published in 1964, this book holds the story of Italian Fascism and its leader up to the light. Gallo explains how Fascism triumphed in Italy, what it did to and for that country, and what its heritage is for present-day Italy. The character of Mussolini is explored as it is interwoven with the history of the dictatorship he founded, and Gallo demonstrates beyond doubt the enthusiasm with which Italian industry, finance, and business supported Mussolini's self-styled, anti-capit...

“… Ettore Bugatti was by common consent one of the most brilliant designers ever to work in the automotive field. He produced a greater range of models than any other single designer ever has done: racing machines, sports cars and limousines, automobiles of all sizes …… The Bugatti was probably the most sought-after and admired pre-World War II car existing, the world over…… Ettore Bugatti mad inventor or mechanical genius ? Viewed from the point of view of his car designs an...

A complete History of Aston Martin at Le Mans (1928-2005)

The first book in the Understanding Photography series, Understanding Exposure, was a runaway best-seller, with more than 250,000 copies sold. Now author Bryan Peterson brings his signature style to another important photography topic: shutter speed. With clear, jargon-free explanations of terms and techniques, plus compelling “before-and-after” photos that pair a mediocre image (created using the wrong shutter speed) with a great image (created using the right shutter speed), thi...

Created in 1950, the Formula One World Championship is the pinnacle of auto racing. The most popular form of motor sports on Earth, some of its marquee teams are known throughout the world, such as Ferrari, McLaren, and Lotus. Formula Ones glamorous outlook and incredible marketing power make one believe that it is a fantasy world of expensive machinery and super hero drivers, a dazzling array of lines and colors. But if one looks closer into the history of the world Championship, one will...

With the launch of the new California 1400 in 2013, and actor Ewan McGregor appointed brand ambassador, Moto Guzzi's owners Piaggio are proving their belief in the future and importance of Moto Guzzi. Moto Guzzi - The Complete Story charts the development of the stylish Guzzi bikes and the highs (and lows) of one of the oldest motorcycles marques still in existence. Topics covered include the origins of the Moto Guzzi factory at Madello del Lario - the oldest motorcycle factory in the worl...

A history of the Rudge-Whitworth cycle and motorcycle company, from the late 1800s to the 1940s, including full production histories of the motorcycle models. Topics covered include: the origins of Rudge-Whitworth, from Daniel Rudge's early bicycles, to the Pugh family merger; the expansion into motorcycle production in 1909, with the 'M' prototypes and 'F'-head engines; the invention of the Rudge Multi gear engine in 1912, and a subsequent Isle of man win in 1914; the innovative 'Rudge Fo...

“ In compiling this brief history of Grand Prix racing, along with descriptions of the more successful cars, I have limited myself to the period since World War II as the present day Grand Prix cars are mostly derived from the development and design of the early post war years. Although many ideas were taking shape in the period of the mid-thirties — such as the use of De Dion rear axle layouts, independent front suspension systems and hydraulic brakes — the main interest lay in engine des...