Date: 28/01/2017

Author: E.Rizzo

Title: Legendary Italian Cars

Publisher &Date: vmb.2009

ISBN: 9788854028890

A&R library copy: Yes

This well written and beautifully presented work does the subject justice. It examines in chronological order the development of Italian automobile technology and manufacture.

The publisher’s introduction states:-

“the automobile is one of the symbols of made in Italy  around the world .its success is the result of the genius and creativity of a select group of Italians and culture and history that has allowed the country to set the standards for good taste through great intuition and revolutionary creations………….this book tells the story of the Italian automobile through the men , vehicles and ever changing conditions .the chapters follow a chronological format that reviews social ,economic and political factors both in Italy and internationally as well as various eras of the Italian car and its development based on design generations and mechanical innovation”

This work comprises approximately 300 pages. The contents are:-

• Preface by Giorgetto Giugiaro
• Introduction
• Chapter 1      Italy starts its engines :the first manufacturers, the early bodywork
• Chapter 2      The 1920’s, a unique decade
• Chapter 3      From the crisis in 1929 to the war
• Chapter 4      The post war period :Italian style is born
• Chapter 5      From the Dolce vita of the 60’s to the crisis in the 70’s
• Chapter 6      The epic changes of the 80’s and 90’s
• Chapter 7      The Third Millennium
• Bibliography and Index

The editors would have bought this book as it’s so easy to be seduced by the photography.

His work fully integrates with our section on Italian marques including Pininfarina, Zagato.

• It also has indirect use in placing a context on Giorgetto Giugiaro and the Lotus Esprit.

Without doubt it comes fully commended.

Subscribers might like to see directly relevant A&R articles:-

• Cisitalia
• The Italian Line
• Carlo Mollino

G.Giugiaro and Lotus Ee extremely democratic have been included.

• the crisis in 1929 to the war
• Chapter 4      The post war period :Italian style is born
• Chapter 5      From the Dolce vita of the 60’s to the crisis in the 70’s
• Chapter 6      The epic changes of the 80’s and 90’s
• Chapter 7      The Third Millennium
• Bibliography and Index

The editors would have bought this book as it’s so easy to be seduced by the photography.

However this large format work is also an excellent account of the wider Italian motor industry and provides plenty of cultural context.

It’s not just an indulgence in the iconic racing cars and super cars of the 1960’s.It also records the many significant economy cars like Fiat and significant saloons.

Without over-elaborating or over quoting the book is authorative.

Early on this book indicates its academic credentials by reminding the reader of the socio-economic envelope of the subject and in a free market the reality of purchasing power C 1930 .Rizzo informs us that :-

“Individuals also had to consider the purchasing power of their wages, however which generally did not allow them to buy vehicles they wanted.

For example, a worker in their mid-30’s earned approximately 350 lira per month, a blue collar worker 250 lira and a farmer less than 100 lira.

If a Fiat Topolino cost 8900 lira , a Lancia Ardea 29,000 lira and an Alfa Romeo 8C as much as 91,000 lira  , it is understandable that the car remained a dream for many and the bicycle continued to do the job [considering that one could be purchased for under 600 lira]

………..these social conditions were confirmed by the sales figures .the record number of cars sold in 1929 [before the start of the depression] were 33,436 units and this number was not exceeded until 1937 when 34,208 units were sold ………until 48,883vwere sold in 1949 by which time the war was a thing of the past and recovery was to become an economic boom. The number of vechicles in Italy at the end of the 1920’s was one for every 250people, the equivalent number in GB was one for every 37 people in France one to 40 and in the US an amazing rate of one car for every 10 people ………..”

Legendary Italian Cars contains in the editor’s estimation the following exquisite photographs:-

Ferrari            25

Maserati         10

Alfa Romeo   9

Lamborghini 10

Italia                1

OM

Isotta F

Lancia

Fiat

Cisitalia          2

Abarth            2

De Tomaso

Bugatti

Pagani

In addition there is complementary imagery including:-

• Posters
• Historical photographs
• Manufacturers adverts/brochures
• Production
• Drivers and Races
• Film and stars featuring cars like 1962 Dino Rossi II Sorpasso [The Easy Life] and 1963 Yesterday ,Today and Tomorrow with Sofia Loren
• Manufacturers presentation drawings /renderings

This work is of interest to:-

• Automobile , cultural and social historians
• Students of auto design , coachwork ,aesthetics and product design

The editors rate this as one of the better reference works we have read dedicated to this subject with sharp concentrated focus. It will be of considerable future use.

Our only regret and possible omission is that “Show” cars by the main designers has been excluded, and seeing how influential these were in inspiring design throughout the world .however we understand this a function of the constraints of space and that the utility models that sold in volume and were extremely democratic have been included.

The A&R library fortunately has many other books devoted to the “Show” cars.

This work fully integrates with our section on Italian marques including Pininfarina, Zagato.

• It also has indirect use in placing a context on Giorgetto Giugiaro and the Lotus Esprit.

Without doubt it comes fully commended.

Subscribers might like to see directly relevant A&R articles:-

• Cisitalia
• The Italian Line
• Carlo Mollino

G.Giugiaro and Lotus Esprit 

Understand this is a function of the constraints of space and that the utility models that sold in volume and were extremely democratic have been included.

The A&R library fortunately has many other books devoted to the “Show” cars.

This work fully integrates with our section on Italian marques including Pininfarina, Zagato.

• It also has indirect use in placing a context on Giorgetto Giugiaro and the Lotus Esprit.

Without doubt it comes fully commended.

Subscribers might like to see directly relevant A&R articles:-

• Cisitalia
• The Italian Line
• Carlo Mollino

Date: 26/12/2012

Title: Lotus Twin Cam Engine

Author: Miles Wilkins

Publisher &Date: Brookland 2012

ISBN: 9781855209688

A&R library copy: Yes

This is not a review as its felt that the technical nature is not best communicated in writing. This work is of the “Haynes Manual” type and very significant.

The editors are unable to comment on the technical accuracy of the information given by Wilkins.

However we would like to alert our subscribers to the fact that it is available within the A&R library.

The book is officially described as: –

A comprehensive guide to the design, development, restoration and maintenance of the Lotus-Ford Twin cam engine………..

Comprehensive data and “how to” guide to the Lotus –Ford twin cam engine as used in the Elan, Lotus Cortina, Europa and Ford Twin Cam Escorts.”

Contents

“Part 1: Concept, design and development, including the Big Valve engines

Part 2: Dismantling, reconditioning and assembly. Includes information on fuel and exhaust systems plus running –in procedure

Part 3: Specifications and technical data.”

The work is of approximately 235pp and also contains two appendixes.

It is very well illustrated as imagined and contains both technical  detail and whole car pictures. There are also diagrams and exploded drawings, graphs, road test reports and information about carburettors and Ignition etc

First published in 1988 this work has been updated in 2011.

The editors respected Wilkins for tacking and devoting chapters to:

“Big valve engines –con or sales gimmick/ and

Exploding the myths.”

Although perhaps not many of our subscribers will wish to dismantle and rebuild a twin cam engine from this manual alone more will probably be interested in the history and development.

It’s well known that Chapman and Lotus used a number of existing engines until they developed their own. This allowed them to concentrate on what they did best. Reading this work will help understand context and perhaps wider issues of economics, competition, external dependency/ vulnerability and status.

For this alone the editors found it valuable.

In a forthcoming article the A&R will examine the use of bought in engines used by the specialist sports car makers past and present.

The Proposed CCM&EC

The proposed museum believes that commercial considerations are both necessary and complementary with its educational objectives.

For these reasons our Business Plan includes provision for promoting products and services which share Chapman’s ideals of mechanical efficiency and sustainability. In addition we propose merchandising that explain and interprets the social and cultural context of Chapman’s designs in period. Its suggested there will be catalogue for on line purchasing.

In particular it’s suggested that the proposed CCM&EC retains a permanent library. That this is available for research and also as a commercial research service.

Additionally books can be retailed including both new and second hand.

Should any of our subscribers wish for more information on any book reviewed please ask.

The A&R editors are always receptive to suggestions for book reviews again please ask we will endeavour to help.

Date: 08/12/2015
Author: Compiled Olyslager Organisation
Title: The Observer’s Book of Automobiles
Publisher &Date: Frederick Warne.1974
ISBN: 0723215278
A&R library copy: Yes

The editors were prompted to write a brief review on acquiring a 1974 edition of Observers Book of Automobiles. We have about half a dozen mainly from the 1960’s.

This is an alert rather than a full blown review which is really self-explanatory with this book series.

It’s easy to overlook this series but they have a use, are convenient in several ways, inexpensive, reasonably comprehensive and consistent format. The editors use them often in conjunction with price relativities and our social history series and overall context.

Of course Lotus is documented.

The 1970’s were possibly not the best decade for the automobile caught in times of world economic crisis and petrol turmoil. Aesthetics were often dubious and quality was possibly at its lowest.

However these small pocket size volumes can be used to advantage .They are good for:

• Benchmarking
• Studying snapshots of society and fashion etc.
• Examination of manufacturers product range and marketing strategy etc. and responses to world events
• Studying manufactures history and which models have enduring appeal
• Students of coachwork are able to make comparisons/study trends etc.
• Some technical study is possible in an era of transition from front engine rear wheel drive to greater priority of transverse front engine /front wheel drive
• It’s possible to study a few of the lesser known marques and their continuum

Each model is described consistently with the following statistics/ criteria:-

• Photograph of vehicle
• Manufacturers and model name /designation
• Abbreviated engine detail
• Brakes
• Capacities
• Carburettors
• Chassis
• Clutch
• Dimensions
• Engine -8 components
• Final drive
• Steering
• Suspension –front /rear
• Transmission
• Tyres
• Weight
• Notes brief details as appropriate

The editors mention just a brief selection but which show considerable variety and a few models not generally recorded.

Notable entries:

• AC                  3000
• BMW              3.0 CSL
• Citroen           SM
• Ferrari                        365 GT4 2+2
• Fiat                 126
• Fiat                 X1/9
• Ford                Escort RS2000
• Ginetta           G21
• Iso                   Lele
• Jensen           Healey
• Jensen           Interceptor III
• Lamborghini Countach
• Lotus             Plus2S 130/5
• Lotus             Europa Special
• Maserati         Merak
• Mini                850
• Monica           590
• Morgan          Plus 8
• NSU               Ro80
• Pontiac          Trans Am
• Porsche         911 Targa
• Renault          4
• Renault          5TL
• Rover             Range Rover
• Saab               96
• Scorpion        K19 Sports Coupe
• De Tomaso    Pantera
• TVR                3000M
• VW                  Porsche 914

It would be a bonus if retail prices could be included but we have other sources for this if required.

Possibly the main advantage of this series is the ease and speed of obtaining data from which further research can proceed.

If subscribers have a research requirement please contact us.

————————————————————————

Date: 28/07/2015
Author: Charlotte & Peter Fiell
Title: Industrial Design A-Z

Publisher &Date: Taschen.2000
ISBN: 9783822863107
A&R library copy: No

This book is thoroughly recommended.

It does what is says on the cover.

It features Lotus and helps benchmark other manufacturers [see listing below]

The publishers introduce the volume with this:-

“Industrial design synthesises engineering, technology, manufacturing, processes, materials and aesthetics into machine –produced design solutions which profoundly shape our environment.

From consumer products and packaging to transportation and equipment , this comprehensive work traces the evolution of industrial design from the Industrial Revolution  to the present day…………this is an essential reference work that provides detailed biographical and historical information with over a thousand colour illustrations.”

At over 760 pages it’s thorough, comprehensive and beautifully illustrated.

Although no single book on Industrial Design can be definitive, the editors consider for engineer/ designers with an interest in automotive design it could very well act as a standard reference work.

As the above definition confirms Chapman and his colleagues at Lotus were significant Industrial Designers.

Second hand copies at approximately £3 are extraordinary value. [The editor’s copy is on order whilst review is from library book]

The Contents are:-

• Introduction
• A-Z Designers and Firms
• A-Z Themes and Materials
• Case Studies
• Time Line
• Appendix including useful biography

As stated this work is brief and without jargon. The introduction is only two short pages but within this it sets out the context of the book and expands on what Industrial Design is. It’s worth quoting because it’s particularly relevant to an appreciation of Chapman and Lotus:-

“For over two hundred years, the products of mechanised industrial production have shaped our material culture, influenced world economies and affected the quality of our environment and daily lives. From consumer goods and packaging to transportation systems and production equipment , industrial products encompass an extraordinary range of functions, techniques , attitudes, ideas and values and are a means through which we experience and perceive the world around us…

Industrial Design –the concept of planning of products for multiple reproduction –is a creative and inventive process concerned with the synthesis of such instrumental forces as engineering, technology, materials and aesthetics into machine producible solutions that balance all user needs and desires within technical and social constraints.

Engineering –the application of scientific principles to the design and construction of structures , machines , apparatus or manufacturing processes – is an essential and defining aspect of industrial design…

And writing about manufacturers the Fiell’s comment

“Without their willingness to risk the necessary and sometimes massive investment demanded by the development of new products, there would be very little industrial design. Innovation and commercially –motivated yet socially –minded manufacturing companies are too often the unsung heroes of our material culture”

It’s against this definition and context the entries can be appreciated not least Chapman and Lotus.

The Motor /transport manufacturers listed include:-

• Alfa Romeo
• Aprilia
• Audi
• BMW
• Bugatti
• Caterpillar
• Chrysler
• Citroen
• John Deere
• Ducati
• Euclid
• Ferrari
• Fiat
• Ford
• General Motors
• Harley Davidson
• Honda
• Indian
• Jaguar
• JCB
• Jeep
• Kawasaki
• Lamborghini
• Lambretta
• Lotus
• Mercedes Benz
• Messerschmitt
• Nissan
• Opel
• Piaggio
• Porsche
• Renault
• Saab
• Toyota
• Volkswagen
• Volvo
• Yamaha

Aviation and boats includes:-

• Bell
• Boeing
• De Havilland
• Lear
• Lockheed
• McDonnell Douglas
• North American
• Sikorsky
• Zeppelin
• Sunseeker
• Individuals :C.Cockerell, Wright brothers, Reginald Mitchell

Designers and consultants [A&R Design Heroes italics]

• David Bache
• Bertone
• Marcel Breuer
• IK Brunel
• Carl Breer
• Mike Burrows
• Harley Earl
• R Buckminster Fuller
• Ghia
• Dante Giacosa
• G Giugraro
• Walter Gropius
• Alec Issigonis
• Paul Jaray
• Erwin Komenda
• Raymond Loewy
• Alex Moulton
• Pininfarina

Each of the entries is highly illustrated and this permits further research and is inspirational.

Of Lotus they comment:-

“It is true to say that every single car on the road and racetrack today owes some part of its design and engineering to the genius of Colin Chapman.”

This is an extremely useful, affordable and useful reference work for the serious student intent on conducting a forensic examination of Chapman and Lotus. It provides an immediate quality system of benchmarking. It also enables students to understand the other Industrail Design and consultancy that Lotus undertake.

It therefore comes highly commended.

And as in all good reference work it has a good bibliography. Within minutes of opening this volume the editor had checked this and made reservations from the local library.

 

Date: 30/03/2015

Author: Derrick and Clay

Title: Million-Dollar Classics: The World’s Most Expensive Cars

Publisher &Date: Blue Red Press.2011

ISBN: 9781908247001

A&R library copy: Yes

The dust jacket introduces and summaries this book extremely well.

It kicks off with:

“What makes one car change hands at auction for millions of dollars, while others of the same era, and sometimes even from the same manufacture –are now worth next to nothing?”

The authors continue their argument:-

“The answer lies in a complex combination of:-

• Style
• Power
• Beauty
• Exclusivity
• Rarity

Million Dollar Classics is a breath-taking record of the finest automobile works of art ever created”

Derrick and Clay have chosen fifty examples .The editors offer their selection from the catalogue:

[table width=”500″ colwidth=”20|100|50″ colalign=”left|left|center|left|right”]
1932,Bugatti,Type,55
1933,Bugatti,Type,59
1937,Bugatti,Type,57S
1938,Alfa Romeo,Tipo,2900 B
1938,Talbot Lago,T23,Teardrop
1939,Mercedes Benz,,W154
1955,Jaguar,D Type,
1959,Ferrari,246 S,Dino
1960,Maserati,Tipo 61,Birdcage
1962,Aston Martin,DB4,Zagato
1963,Shelby,Daytona,Coupe
1964,Ford ,GT 40,Prototype
1966,Ferrari,250 LM,
1996,McLaren,F1,
[/table]

Each of the automobiles selected has a brief decription outlining design objectives, aesthetics, production volumes and where possible the price when new.

Each is accompanied by an excellent set of photographs which comprise a selection of overall concept / body shape in three-quarter view, engine detail, dashboard detail, side elevation, constructional detail like wheel hubs, mascot or marque badge.

The text is supported by a brief technical data panel comprising the following details:-

• Country of Origin
• Body Designer
• Manufacturing Dates
• Power
• Maximum Torque
• Top Speed
• 0-60 mph
• Transmission
• Engine
• Length
• Width
• Wheelbase
• Kerb Weight
• Brakes
• Suspension
• Auction sale Date
• Price

An important work, the obvious focus being highly valuable cars, but it underpins this with reference to their design, specification, aesthetic and significance.

The editors find it interesting that many of the selection are competition cars, here possibly two important price criteria merge- the purest of function with rarity.

It’s also possible to look at epochs and readers will perhaps detect two distinct concentrations. These appear to be the decade’s pre and post Second World War.

The earlier when aerodynamic theory was being applied often in an organic understanding almost symbolic fashion and later when the science was more refined and mathematic.

There is quite a jump to the McLaren FI.This is notable for its organic shape and perhaps cerebral and emotional response to what is correct or perhaps better expressed as the perceived appropriateness of form and function.

Derrick and Clays work might also be read in a more challenging manner that examines the value of objects; particularly works of art. Critically what makes fine art so expensive, not the canvass or paints, [often the frames were more expensive], and they have little utility. It will be argued they represent high ideals, noble or challenging concepts and their ongoing inspiration and humanitarianism but cynically their greater significance is their scarcity; which becomes a function of supply and demand.

Important works of art are sought by museums to retain national heritage or complement collections and indeed enhance national pride and engender tourism. It’s an irony that as more works enter museums, supply and demand alters in favour of those works remaining in private hands.

As some of the automobiles are fetching prices comparable with old masters it is time perhaps that old snobberies were overturned and some automobiles seen in their true engineering sculptural aesthetic equal and even superior in many respects.

Although no Lotus is included in Million –Dollar Classics the editors firmly believe that certain Lotus types could reach comparable figures at auction certainly their significance and technical genius exceeds some of those quoted by Derrick and Clay. The editors believe that they ought to be a museum reflecting the achievements of Chapman and lack of appreciation might be due to ignorance and not enjoying the same academic attention as given to other marques.

The editors have not quoted any of the specifications given but will do so on request. Subscribers might have views on those automobiles included and a dedicated article might follow, to extend the debate and parity.

No doubt subscribers will be critical that there has been significant ommissions by derrick and Clay in their  work. It’s not possibly through space for authors to include all we understand, but Derrick and Clay might have provided an appendix that might have traced prices over time.

This work shines as a result of some very beautiful photography, and the editors detect through this medium the automobile might be re-evaluated.

As such subscribers might like to cross reference with A&R articles:-

• An Aesthetic study of the Cisitalia
• Art of the Formula 1 Race Car [book review]
• The Art of Lightness –Museum Exhibition Review
• Auto Legends by Zumbrunn [ISBN:9781858943480]
• British Auto Legends by Zumbrunn[ISBN:978858944128

 

———————————————

Date: 11/06/2014

Author: Tony Gardiner

Title: Motor Racing at Goodwood in the Sixties

Publisher &Date: Veloce .2002

ISBN: 1903706491

A&R library copy: / No

This is a very attractive work, very evocative, atmospheric and highly illustrated with black and white photographs.

The editors commend it.

It will appeal to an audience who perhaps most wish to understand the culture and ambience of the era. The emphasis is about the envelope rather than the technicalities or racing. As such it’s an important work for creative writers, artists, drama and documentary writers.Having said this Lotus are well represented [see tabulation].The photographs have their own aesthetic merit.

The editors believe its strength is capturing the essence and unique atmosphere of the era so well. To do so Gardiner has used his own photographs [ he took over 500 in period ] the majority of which take in a wider cultural and social dimension of the interaction taking place. Most of the photographs used are unpublished. In many respects his work is rather impressionistic. It succeeds in capturing hazy, lyrical English spring and summer days in a rural setting with the glorious South Downs and Weald as backdrop. The sky pervades; it’s big open heavenly expanse and seems in most images to provide an envelope which permits the weather and temperature to be read. The photographs taken are essentially of the spectator and are rather inclusive and therefore very different from the typical press focus.

One quotation from the book alluding to a photograph sums it up beautifully:-

“The early evening sun is casting long shadows at the end of another glorious Goodwood day”

Typical elements rendered are:-

• Paddock
• Spectators – note fashions and body language and manners, etiquette etc.
• The circuit and its “architecture”
• Cars depicted informally
• Drivers and mechanics and guests etc. intermingle in social melee
• Transporters
• Fixture and fittings

The black and white photographs have a touching authenticity

The range of cars photographed is extensive and includes:-

• Cooper including Monaco
• Merlyn
• Brabham
• Lola
• Aston Martin including DB3’s ,Zagato and 214
• Morgan
• Elva
• Marcos
• Ginetta
• Ford including Galaxies
• Jaguar
• Ferrari including 330 P
• Fiat –Abarth
• Shelby American Cobra
• McLaren –Elva
• Oldsmobile
• Alfa Romeo including GTZ

The Lotus represented by year are:-

1961

• Elite [UDT-Laystall]

1962

• Monte Carlo- [Moss/UDT –Laystall]
• Elite x 4 images

1963

• 23

1964

• 25
• Ford Lotus Cortina
• 30
• F3 [BMC]
• Eleven

1965

• Ford Lotus Cortina
• 25
• Eleven GT

1966

• Ford Lotus Cortina x 2 images
• F3 x 2 images

These images have a great charm but more important they show the cars as they were raced and maintained before classic status and the occasional over restoration. For this reason some historians may be interested and certainly drama writers seeking the minutia and accuracy of the period without sentiment or distortion.

Although Gardiner’s work has a nostalgia the editors believe it tells a powerful story of the events and social climate. There were some aspects of the 1960’s still clinging to the pre-war era, but it was time of space technology and the swinging sixties.

The editors believe this work to be extremely graphic and powerful in its unpretentious capturing of an era in change. The black and white photographs are redolent. Many readers will wish to return to them. Many of the images are fairly indelible.

Series students of social history will find much to discover.

This work is warmly commended to our subscribers. Sadly at present we do not have a copy in the A&R library yet.

BOOK REVIEW

AUTHOR: Edited by the staff of “Motor Racing “ magazine
TITLE: Motor Racing Year 1967-68 & 1968-9
PUBLISHER: Knightsbridge Publication
DATE: 1967 &1969
ISBN: None
ARCHIVE AND RESOUCE COPY: YES – both.
These slim small format books 170 x220mm] are very evocative of the era. Printed in black and white the covers are over a light yellow background and spine; containing period advertisements etc
They are beautifully illustrated by the best photographers of the era including Geoff Goddard [see A&R article] and Lotus is well represented. They run to 130 pages approximately. Several branches of motor sport are included although FI is the main focus.
The 67/68 edition contains some of the following:

The 1968-69 edition has a very distinctive photograph of Graham Hill seen in the cockpit taken from the rear of the car. This volume is coloured by the sad loss of Jim Clark.
The contents include some of the following;

Overall they are very attractive volumes. The editor feels that the photography in particular being current and contemporary is better than more recent works that often rely on photo –library images. Authentic they capture the era and prevailing culture. Lotus and their drivers are captured and being objective even when the wheels are falling off!!

The Proposed CCM&EC

The proposed museum believes that commercial considerations are both necessary and complementary with its educational objectives.

For these reasons our Business Plan includes provision for promoting products and services which share Chapman’s ideals of mechanical efficiency and sustainability. In addition we propose merchandising that explain and interprets the social and cultural context of Chapman’s designs in period. Its suggested there will be catalogue for on line purchasing.

In particular it’s suggested that the proposed CCM&EC retains a permanent library. That this is available for research and also as a commercial research service.

Additionally books can be retailed including both new and second hand.

Should any of our subscribers wish for more information on any book reviewed please ask.
The A&R editors are always receptive to suggestions for book reviews again please ask we will endeavour to help.

Lotus Books – Recommended Reading

	Title: Maserati 300S Author: Walter Baeumer Publisher &Date: Dalton Watson.2008 ISBN: 9781854432322
This is a magnificent heavy weight hardback with black cloth cover embossed with silver title. Also furnished with dust jacket and slipcase. It measures 12×12 “ approximately. 360 pages and 390 illustrations. This book is devoted to the 300S considered by some to be the world’s most beautiful sports racing cars. [The editor would challenge this] The book also traces the history of the World Sports Car Championship in 1956 and 1957 against such opposition as Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Lancia, Aston Martin and Jaguar. The content includes paragraphs on: Introduction and Technical Development Numbers In Italy The Competition Advertising and Sales The Cars [by Chassis] The Mystery Cars 350S – The Successor The Personalities Appendix :Owners Manual Acknowledgements Index. The editor was slightly disappointed. First impressions of quality weight and size suggested a technical treatise. Considering the aesthetic merit of the 300S there was relatively little about the design and construction. I had hoped for working drawings but these were sadly absent. The 950’s provided a rich and varied selection of competition machinery. The conduct of races was more amateur than now but it was possibly more photogenic and accessible. The book is profusely illustrated and this is compensation. Many of the pictures are period and very redolent of the era. The author’s inclusion of both black and white with colour photographs is very endearing and communicate more than words ever can. Baeumer catches the full International flavour with photographs from all continents in which the 300S raced. One photograph will be of interest to Lotus enthusiasts [see page 187] Whitehaed in 300S [race no 48] leads a Lotus 8 and Eleven at Snetterton 1956. A significant section of the work is given to a record of the 28 cars supposedly built. It’s as if the author hopes to make this the definitive list but this can rarely be fixed with certainty. In conclusion a beautifully illustrated and presented book rather marred by lack of technical information and restoration detail.
Flywheel “Memories of the open Road.”	Webb and Bower 1987.
Brief Introduction This is a touching little book that contains more that might be imagined. In many respects is real living history, it’s about motivation under harsh conditions but its optimism relates to the future. It speaks volumes about freedom. It also acknowledges the Commonwealth needs. The reader should appreciate that many of the soldiers would have significant impact on post war more support in a range of capacities. This small volume is also a fascinating insight into culture and in ways looks back with nostalgia but essentially forward. As in case/ debate about streamlining [nb present day green and petrol concerns etc] Not quite a manifesto but it does so important seeds. Ex military personnel like Arthur Mallock [U2] would have a considerable impact on post war clubman’s racing and in the process the development of Lotus. Ex servicemen would probably mutate wartime technology, as did Colin Chapman particularly from aviation but also in logistics organisation and planning. The book is beautifully and lovingly illustrated. The style of drawing indicates the best of the amateur but high quality that characterised this era. The illustrations in watercolour are very evocative, capturing the spirit and essence of the machines and driving pleasure. The inclusion of known and trusted brands was perhaps a link with home, security and a reputation and safeguard. The editor also suggests that readers might like to study our “Long and Winding Road Series” as there is a period perspective in both that might allow the reader to pick up threads and have deeper insights to the culture, motivating forces and embryo technology that would appear post war. Review. The authors explain that the book: “Is a facsimile reproduction of a unique collection of motoring magazines produced during WWII in a prisoner of war camp in Mulhberg, Germany. Each edition was drawn and scripted by hand and circulated around the camp for members to read and pass on. The first being produced in May 1944 and the last March 1945.” Royalties from the book are donated to the Red Cross. Items included: Summary of the ideal car Austin racing car Tempering steel History of the M.G Fastest on Earth Independent all –round All weather racing kit Things to come & Reawakening [poem] Alta Stagnate and Streamline The Exeter Highland Steed Ought there be a TT Hints Tips and Do You Know. This small book, highly illustrated on 240 pages is an important social document and commentary. More important in some respects than academic tomes. It ought be read in context of the contribution and cultural context of the motorcar in the 20C * This item donated by Neil Duncan and available through the A&R Library.
Doug Nye	The Story of Lotus
This book sets out to record and pay tribute to the first quarter-century of Lotus history. It is divided into three sections. The first section covers; Lotus car developments, general business aspects and company politics, as well as overall policy; the second details all Lotus’ major single-seater activities and development during the year; and the third discusses the Lotus competition record in the remaining leagues of motor racing and other branches of motor sport.
Chris Rees	The Magnificent Seven
Michael Frewin	The International Grand Prix Book of Motor Racing
Michael Oliver	Tales from the Toolbox
Graham Gould	From the Fells to Ferrari
This book is the biography of Cliff Allison who started motor racing over fifty years ago with a little Cooper 500. Very much a countryman at heart Allison was not one of the party-going racing drivers but a driver with a huge ambition to race in Formula 1. He and Graham Hill competed in the first grand prix race for Colin Chapman’s Lotus team in 1958 and scored the first world championship points for Lotus. He later joined Ferrari and won the Argentine 1000kms sports car race with American co-driver Phil Hill as well as being a member of the Ferrari grand prix team in 1959 and 1960. Cliff Allison can also claim victories in many sports car events including winning the Index of Performance at Le Mans in 1957 with a 750cc Lotus Eleven-Climax. His retired from racing following an accident whilst driving a Lotus-Climax in practice for the Belgian GP at Spa in 1961.
Eoin Young	Jim Clark and His Most Successful Lotus
This compelling book marries together a study of a great period in the life of Jim Clark with the history of a great British marque, featuring in particular the famous Lotus 25, from its golden 1963 World Championship-winning year, through subsequent owners and crashes until the remains are discovered and the gallant old charger is restored to its original specification.
Graham Capel	Lotus – Historic Half Century
John Tipler	Lotus Racing Cars: Dominance and Decline 1968-2000
John Tipler published in 2002.	Lotus Racing cars : Club racers to World Champions 1948-1968
	Available on the internet in the region of £50
Hugh Haskell (Author), Stirling Moss (Foreword)	Colin Chapman: Lotus Engineering (Hardcover)
Gerard Crombac	Colin Chapman. The man and his cars
	Currently available on amazon
Robin Read	Colin Chapman’s Lotus
Ian Smith	Lotus, the first 10 years
Peter Ross	Lotus, the early years
	Currently available on amazon
Graham Capel / R M Clarke	Lotus Sports Racers
Michael Oliver	Lotus 72 Formula One Icon
	Currently available on amazon
William Taylor	Lotus collectabables
Tony Weale	Lotus 7, Restoration, Preparation & Maintenance
Andrew Ferguson	Team Lotus the Indianapolis Years
Dennis Ortenburger / William Taylor	Lotus Elite: Racing car for the road
	Currently available on amazon
Mike Lawrence	Colin Chapman, Wayward Genius
	Out of print but available second hand through Amazon
Doug Nye	Single Seat Lotus Formula 1 and Indy Cars
Graham Arnold	Lotus Seven Super Profile
Paul Robinshaw/Jeremy Bouchley	Lotus on the Hills
Mark Hughes	Lotus Elan
David Hodges	Lotus, the Legend

Please note that this is far from a definitive list. Some of them are out of print

We would welcome additions to the list from our readers.