![\"\"](\"http:\/\/colinchapmanmuseum.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/Legendary-Italian-Cars.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nThis well written and beautifully presented work does the subject justice. It examines in chronological order the development of Italian automobile technology and manufacture.<\/p>\n
The publisher\u2019s introduction states:-<\/p>\n
\u201cthe automobile is one of the symbols of made in Italy <\/em>\u00a0around 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\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.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\u201d<\/p>\n This work comprises approximately 300 pages. The contents are:-<\/p>\n The editors would have bought this book as it\u2019s so easy to be seduced by the photography.<\/p>\n His work fully integrates with our section on Italian marques including Pininfarina, Zagato.<\/p>\n Without doubt it comes fully commended.<\/p>\n Subscribers might like to see directly relevant A&R articles:-<\/p>\n G.Giugiaro and Lotus Ee extremely democratic have been included.<\/p>\n The editors would have bought this book as it\u2019s so easy to be seduced by the photography.<\/p>\n However this large format work is also an excellent account of the wider Italian motor industry and provides plenty of cultural context.<\/p>\n It\u2019s not just an indulgence in the iconic racing cars and super cars of the 1960\u2019s.It also records the many significant economy cars like Fiat and significant saloons.<\/p>\n Without over-elaborating or over quoting the book is authorative.<\/p>\n 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 :-<\/p>\n \u201cIndividuals also had to consider the purchasing power of their wages, however which generally did not allow them to buy vehicles they wanted.<\/p>\n For example, a worker in their mid-30\u2019s earned approximately 350 lira per month, a blue collar worker 250 lira and a farmer less than 100 lira.<\/p>\n If a Fiat Topolino cost 8900 lira , a Lancia Ardea 29,000 lira and an Alfa Romeo 8C as much as 91,000 lira\u00a0 , 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]<\/p>\n \u2026\u2026\u2026..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 \u2026\u2026\u2026until 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\u2019s 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 \u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n Legendary Italian Cars <\/em>contains in the editor\u2019s estimation the following exquisite photographs:-<\/p>\n Ferrari\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 25<\/p>\n Maserati\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 10<\/p>\n Alfa Romeo\u00a0\u00a0 9<\/p>\n Lamborghini 10<\/p>\n Italia\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1<\/p>\n OM<\/p>\n Isotta F<\/p>\n Lancia<\/p>\n Fiat<\/p>\n Cisitalia\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 2<\/p>\n Abarth\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 2<\/p>\n De Tomaso<\/p>\n Bugatti<\/p>\n Pagani<\/p>\n In addition there is complementary imagery including:-<\/p>\n This work is of interest to:-<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Our only regret and possible omission is that \u201cShow\u201d 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.<\/p>\n The A&R library fortunately has many other books devoted to the \u201cShow\u201d cars.<\/p>\n This work fully integrates with our section on Italian marques including Pininfarina, Zagato.<\/p>\n Without doubt it comes fully commended.<\/p>\n Subscribers might like to see directly relevant A&R articles:-<\/p>\n G.Giugiaro and Lotus Esprit\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n The A&R library fortunately has many other books devoted to the \u201cShow\u201d cars.<\/p>\n This work fully integrates with our section on Italian marques including Pininfarina, Zagato.<\/p>\n Without doubt it comes fully commended.<\/p>\n Subscribers might like to see directly relevant A&R articles:-<\/p>\n \n Date: 26\/12\/2012<\/p>\n Title: Lotus Twin Cam Engine<\/p>\n Author: Miles Wilkins<\/p>\n Publisher &Date: Brookland 2012<\/p>\n ISBN: 9781855209688<\/p>\n A&R library copy: Yes<\/p>\n This is not a review as its felt that the technical nature is not best communicated in writing. This work is of the \u201cHaynes Manual\u201d type and very significant.<\/p>\n The editors are unable to comment on the technical accuracy of the information given by Wilkins.<\/p>\n However we would like to alert our subscribers to the fact that it is available within the A&R library.<\/p>\n The book is officially described as: –<\/p>\n A comprehensive guide to the design, development, restoration and maintenance of the Lotus-Ford Twin cam engine\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n Comprehensive data and \u201chow to\u201d guide to the Lotus \u2013Ford twin cam engine as used in the Elan, Lotus Cortina, Europa and Ford Twin Cam Escorts.\u201d<\/p>\n Contents<\/p>\n \u201cPart 1: Concept, design and development, including the Big Valve engines<\/p>\n Part 2: Dismantling, reconditioning and assembly. Includes information on fuel and exhaust systems plus running \u2013in procedure<\/p>\n Part 3: Specifications and technical data.\u201d<\/p>\n The work is of approximately 235pp and also contains two appendixes.<\/p>\n It is very well illustrated as imagined and contains both technical\u00a0 detail and whole car pictures. There are also diagrams and exploded drawings, graphs, road test reports and information about carburettors and Ignition etc<\/p>\n First published in 1988 this work has been updated in 2011.<\/p>\n The editors respected Wilkins for tacking and devoting chapters to:<\/p>\n \u201cBig valve engines \u2013con or sales gimmick\/ and<\/p>\n Exploding the myths.\u201d<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n For this alone the editors found it valuable.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n The Proposed CCM&EC<\/strong><\/p>\n The proposed museum believes that commercial considerations are both necessary and complementary with its educational objectives.<\/p>\n For these reasons our Business Plan includes provision for promoting products and services which share Chapman\u2019s ideals of mechanical efficiency and sustainability. In addition we propose merchandising that explain and interprets the social and cultural context of Chapman\u2019s designs in period. Its suggested there will be catalogue for on line purchasing.<\/p>\n In particular it\u2019s suggested that the proposed CCM&EC retains a permanent library. That this is available for research and also as a commercial research service.<\/p>\n Additionally books can be retailed including both new and second hand.<\/p>\n Should any of our subscribers wish for more information on any book reviewed please ask.<\/p>\n The A&R editors are always receptive to suggestions for book reviews again please ask we will endeavour to help.<\/p>\n Date: 08\/12\/2015 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\u2019s.<\/p>\n This is an alert rather than a full blown review which is really self-explanatory with this book series.<\/p>\n It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n Of course Lotus is documented.<\/p>\n The 1970\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n However these small pocket size volumes can be used to advantage .They are good for:<\/p>\n Each model is described consistently with the following statistics\/ criteria:-<\/p>\n The editors mention just a brief selection but which show considerable variety and a few models not generally recorded.<\/p>\n Notable entries:<\/p>\n It would be a bonus if retail prices could be included but we have other sources for this if required.<\/p>\n Possibly the main advantage of this series is the ease and speed of obtaining data from which further research can proceed.<\/p>\n If subscribers have a research requirement please contact us.<\/p>\n ————————————————————————<\/p>\n Date: 28\/07\/2015 Publisher &Date: Taschen.2000 This book is thoroughly recommended.<\/p>\n It does what is says on the cover.<\/p>\n It features Lotus and helps benchmark other manufacturers [see listing below]<\/p>\n The publishers introduce the volume with this:-<\/p>\n \u201cIndustrial design synthesises engineering, technology, manufacturing, processes, materials and aesthetics into machine \u2013produced design solutions which profoundly shape our environment.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n From consumer products and packaging to transportation and equipment , this comprehensive work traces the evolution of industrial design from the Industrial Revolution\u00a0 to the present day\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026this is an essential reference work that provides detailed biographical and historical information with over a thousand colour illustrations.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n At over 760 pages it\u2019s thorough, comprehensive and beautifully illustrated.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n As the above definition confirms Chapman and his colleagues at Lotus were significant Industrial Designers.<\/p>\n Second hand copies at approximately \u00a33 are extraordinary value. [The editor\u2019s copy is on order whilst review is from library book]<\/p>\n The Contents are:-<\/p>\n 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\u2019s worth quoting because it\u2019s particularly relevant to an appreciation of Chapman and Lotus:-<\/p>\n \u201cFor 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\u2026<\/p>\n Industrial Design \u2013the concept of planning of products for multiple reproduction \u2013is 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.<\/p>\n Engineering \u2013the application of scientific principles to the design and construction of structures , machines , apparatus or manufacturing processes \u2013 is an essential and defining aspect of industrial design\u2026<\/p>\n And writing about manufacturers the Fiell\u2019s comment<\/p>\n \u201cWithout 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 \u2013motivated yet socially \u2013minded manufacturing companies are too often the unsung heroes of our material culture\u201d<\/p>\n It\u2019s against this definition and context the entries can be appreciated not least Chapman and Lotus.<\/p>\n The Motor \/transport manufacturers listed include:-<\/p>\n Aviation and boats includes:-<\/p>\n Designers and consultants [A&R Design Heroes italics]<\/p>\n Each of the entries is highly illustrated and this permits further research and is inspirational.<\/p>\n Of Lotus they comment:-<\/p>\n \u201cIt 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.\u201d<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n It therefore comes highly commended.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Date: 30\/03\/2015<\/p>\n Author: Derrick and Clay<\/p>\n Title: Million-Dollar Classics: The World\u2019s Most Expensive Cars<\/p>\n Publisher &Date: Blue Red Press.2011<\/p>\n ISBN: 9781908247001<\/p>\n A&R library copy: Yes<\/p>\n The dust jacket introduces and summaries this book extremely well.<\/p>\n It kicks off with:<\/p>\n \u201cWhat makes one car change hands at auction for millions of dollars, while others of the same era, and sometimes even from the same manufacture \u2013are now worth next to nothing?\u201d<\/p>\n The authors continue their argument:-<\/p>\n \u201cThe answer lies in a complex combination of:-<\/p>\n Million Dollar Classics is a breath-taking record of the finest automobile works of art ever created\u201d<\/p>\n Derrick and Clay have chosen fifty examples .The editors offer their selection from the catalogue:<\/p>\n [table width=”500″ colwidth=”20|100|50″ colalign=”left|left|center|left|right”] Each of the automobiles selected has a brief decription outlining design objectives, aesthetics, production volumes and where possible the price when new.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n The text is supported by a brief technical data panel comprising the following details:-<\/p>\n An important work, the obvious focus being highly valuable cars, but it underpins this with reference to their design, specification, aesthetic and significance.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also possible to look at epochs and readers will perhaps detect two distinct concentrations. These appear to be the decade\u2019s pre and post Second World War.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Important works of art are sought by museums to retain national heritage or complement collections and indeed enhance national pride and engender tourism. It\u2019s an irony that as more works enter museums, supply and demand alters in favour of those works remaining in private hands.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Although no Lotus is included in Million \u2013Dollar 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n No doubt subscribers will be critical that there has been significant ommissions by derrick and Clay in their \u00a0work. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n This work shines as a result of some very beautiful photography, and the editors detect through this medium the automobile might be re-evaluated.<\/p>\n As such subscribers might like to cross reference with A&R articles:-<\/p>\n <\/p>\n ———————————————<\/p>\n Date: 11\/06\/2014<\/p>\n Author: Tony Gardiner<\/p>\n Title: Motor Racing at Goodwood in the Sixties<\/p>\n Publisher &Date: Veloce .2002<\/p>\n ISBN: 1903706491<\/p>\n A&R library copy: \/ No<\/p>\n This is a very attractive work, very evocative, atmospheric and highly illustrated with black and white photographs.<\/p>\n The editors commend it.<\/p>\n 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n One quotation from the book alluding to a photograph sums it up beautifully:-<\/p>\n \u201cThe early evening sun is casting long shadows at the end of another glorious Goodwood day\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Typical elements rendered are:-<\/p>\n The black and white photographs have a touching authenticity<\/p>\n The range of cars photographed is extensive and includes:-<\/p>\n The Lotus represented by year are:-<\/p>\n 1961<\/p>\n 1962<\/p>\n 1963<\/p>\n 1964<\/p>\n 1965<\/p>\n 1966<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Although Gardiner\u2019s 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\u2019s still clinging to the pre-war era, but it was time of space technology and the swinging sixties.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Series students of social history will find much to discover.<\/p>\n This work is warmly commended to our subscribers. Sadly at present we do not have a copy in the A&R library yet.<\/p>\n BOOK REVIEW<\/strong><\/p>\n AUTHOR: Edited by the staff of \u201cMotor Racing \u201c magazine 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. 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 \u2013library 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!!<\/p>\n The Proposed CCM&EC<\/strong><\/p>\n The proposed museum believes that commercial considerations are both necessary and complementary with its educational objectives.<\/p>\n For these reasons our Business Plan includes provision for promoting products and services which share Chapman\u2019s ideals of mechanical efficiency and sustainability. In addition we propose merchandising that explain and interprets the social and cultural context of Chapman\u2019s designs in period. Its suggested there will be catalogue for on line purchasing.<\/p>\n In particular it\u2019s suggested that the proposed CCM&EC retains a permanent library. That this is available for research and also as a commercial research service.<\/p>\n Additionally books can be retailed including both new and second hand.<\/p>\n Should any of our subscribers wish for more information on any book reviewed please ask.\n
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\nAuthor: Compiled Olyslager Organisation
\nTitle: The Observer\u2019s Book of Automobiles
\nPublisher &Date: Frederick Warne.1974
\nISBN: 0723215278
\nA&R library copy: Yes<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n
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\nAuthor: Charlotte & Peter Fiell
\nTitle: Industrial Design A-Z<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
\nISBN: 9783822863107
\nA&R library copy: No<\/p>\n\n
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\n1932,Bugatti,Type,55
\n1933,Bugatti,Type,59
\n1937,Bugatti,Type,57S
\n1938,Alfa Romeo,Tipo,2900 B
\n1938,Talbot Lago,T23,Teardrop
\n1939,Mercedes Benz,,W154
\n1955,Jaguar,D Type,
\n1959,Ferrari,246 S,Dino
\n1960,Maserati,Tipo 61,Birdcage
\n1962,Aston Martin,DB4,Zagato
\n1963,Shelby,Daytona,Coupe
\n1964,Ford ,GT 40,Prototype
\n1966,Ferrari,250 LM,
\n1996,McLaren,F1,
\n[\/table]<\/p>\n\n
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\nTITLE: Motor Racing Year 1967-68 & 1968-9
\nPUBLISHER: Knightsbridge Publication
\nDATE: 1967 &1969
\nISBN: None
\nARCHIVE AND RESOUCE COPY: YES \u2013 both.
\nThese 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
\nThey 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.
\nThe 67\/68 edition contains some of the following:<\/p>\n\n
\nThe contents include some of the following;<\/p>\n\n
\nThe A&R editors are always receptive to suggestions for book reviews again please ask we will endeavour to help.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
\nLotus Books – Recommended Reading<\/strong><\/p>\n