By Richard Loveys  64 pages  (A5 size)

Aston Martin is more than a century old, with the company formed on the eve of the First World War. Since then it has experienced the highs of racing triumph – most famously in the 1959 Le Mans 24-hour race – and the lows of bankruptcy, yet throughout it all, it has been in the first rank of British marques. Published in association with the Aston Martin Heritage Trust and written by enthusiast Richard Loveys, Aston Martin is a fully illustrated history of the company that has created some of the the world's best loved and most widely respected cars, including James Bond's iconic DB5. It covers the cars themselves, the personalities and talents who have shaped Aston Martin, from owners to engineers, and the drivers who have shared with the company in racing glory

By Andrew Lane  32 pages  (A5 size)

The 1940s was the bleakest period in the brief history of the motor car. It was a time of war, deprivation and austerity when, for almost a decade, car development stood still. War-time motorists faced petrol and tyre rationing while the hazards of the black-out made driving in the dark a harrowing experience and even a 20 mph speed limit could not stop the road death tally soaring. This book explores this intriguing subject about a crucial development in the history of motoring, including its recovery towards the end of the period, as new models such as the iconic Morris Minor burst onto the scene.

By David Tremayne. 128 pages. Hardback

Written by an undoubted authority on the subject, this great little book which looks back at the history of speed and distance record breaking in various forms. It also looks at going fast in cars in various ways, including unusual cars (4WD, Turbo, 6 wheel as well as F1). There is also a large section on Project Thrust which took the Land Speed Record in 1983 with Richard Noble at the wheel (the project leader of the later SSC supersonic record breaker and the current Bloodhound 1000mph project). The book is full of facts, plus many excellent revealing photos.

By Anthony Pritchard 64 pages  (A5 size)

With the end of the Second World War it was not long before increasing wealth, cheaper cars, and social pressures made a family car the aspiration of thousands. Ford, Hillman, Standard, Austin, Morris and Vauxhall became household names, and the streets of Britain's suburbs began to fill with modern-looking saloon cars, designed to transport mother, father and 2.4 children with ease, if not speed. This highly-illustrated book looks at the British cars that were available to the post-war family. It also takes a look at some of the rival foreign makes that were entering the market and which subsequently had a great influence on the British-made cars that followed. Written by season motoring author Anthony Pritchard the book is a highly useful reference

By James Taylor  64 pages  (A5 size)

In the 1950s and 1960s, luxury car buyers, from government ministers to captains of industry, almost invariably bought British. These were stately, dignified and grand vehicles, with many featuring leather interiors and wood trim. Unfortunately, that market has now largely disappeared and, with it, so have the car-makers themselves. This book covers cars in the over-3-litre class from the biggest names in British luxury motoring including Alvis, Daimler and Lagonda, as well as high-end models from Austin, Rover and Jaguar. It examines the features and characteristics of these classic cars, as well as explaining why they fell from prominence in the 1970s. Replete with beautiful photography throughout, the book is a loving portrait of the British luxury car, a dearly missed saloon defeated by foreign imports

By James Taylor  64 pages  (A5 size)

An informative and expertly written introduction to the first decades of the motor car when the automobile represented the very peak of technological innovation. The book is packed with fascinating facts about the experimental origins of the motor industry, when these 'horseless carriages' were largely constructed in back-street workshops, with many simply resembling the frame and bodywork of a horse-drawn carriage, but fitted with a petrol engine. Experimentation was rife, however, and there was much debate as to whether petrol, steam or electricity should lead the way, with endurance runs, hill climbs and organised races pitting them one against the other. Early motorists had to employ novel measures to overcome challenges such as the rudimentary engineering of early cars, the difficulty of fuel supply, the poorly maintained roads, and hostility from other road users. 

By Matt Leonard. 256 pages. Hardback

With the use of comprehensive lists and fantastic colour photographs, as well as fun facts and interesting statistics, this book charts the story of the car since 1960. You will learn how the development of modern vehicles, from sports cars to family hatchbacks and SUVs to hybrid/electric cars has influenced changes in society and how politics has dictated the type of cars we drive. You will also explore how the 21st century car has become an indispensable part of everyday life, and what the future may have in store for the humble automobile. This is a riveting read for all car enthusiasts and available at an outstanding price while stocks last.

By James Taylor  64 pages  (A5 size)

The 1970s was a critical decade for the British motor industry. A downward spiral in industrial relations led to crippling strikes. In addition, two major oil crises made thirsty older car designs virtually unsaleable, resulting in foreign manufacturers moving in with products that were affordable, reliable and available on demand. Britain's roads became more cosmopolitan than ever, and manufacturers both British and foreign contributed to an array of models that has become symbolic of the era. The Morris Marina, the Ford Cortina, the Vauxhall Chevette; the VW Golf, the Renault 12, the Peugeot 504 - all are fondly remembered to this day, to a degree that might have seemed unlikely at the time of their manufacture. This is a fully illustrated history of the cars - trimmed with chrome and upholstered in leg-scorching vinyl - that were on offer to the British family of the 1970s

By Patrick Gyger. 192 Pages. Hardback

A fascinating and beautifully illustrated book about one of the most challenging episodes in the evolution of the motor car. While the book may sound like a work of science fiction, it is all true. Cars designed to be flown and aircraft designed to be driven have been created surprisingly often, particularly in the United States, where the unfettered optimism of the 1930s and 1950s allowed such fanciful ideas to flourish from time to time. This handsome book covers the subject in depth for the first time, revealing the stories of many doomed ventures, supported by a wealth of intriguing photographs together with wonderful artwork from comics, popular science magazines and science-fiction novels. SOLD OUT

By Andrew Whyte 64 pages (A5 size)

In 1935, William Lyons' new company, SS Cars Limited, launched a range of cars, the Jaguar. Later adopted by the company, the name became known for luxury saloons and sports cars noted for their style, performance and good value. This Album details with the early work of Lyons and his partner, William Walmsley; from the original Swallow sidecars and car bodies, including the Austin Seven Swallow and the Standard Swallow, and the progress made by Lyons with his own business.

By Jonathan Wood 64 pages (A5 size)

Britain's most popular sporting marque, MG is one of only a handful of British motoring names to have survived into the twenty-first century. From the quintessential open two-seater MG Midget, through the booming post-war years and the emergence of MG as a provider of sports cars for the world, Jonathan Wood provides an in-depth analysis of the rise and fall of a motoring legend. Examining the various models in detail, the author covers the financial and corporate traumas which afflicted the company, its brief resurgence in 1995 with the release of the MGF, and the final sad chapter which saw a British icon sold off to foreign investors. This is an informative and at times touching glimpse into the history of one of the world's most recognisable sports cars.

By Graham Robson. 160 pages. Hardback

Like the car itself, New Mini has proved a hot property, selling more than 7,000 copies - and Practical Classics termed the book 'excellent'. So much has happened since three years ago that a new edition has become necessary, with coverage of the very latest diesel and cabriolet models. This expanded book, packed with even more information and photographs, is expected to become a fashion accessory among the 500,000 people worldwide who have now bought BMW's trendy baby.

By James Taylor  64 pages  (A5 size)

Rolls-Royce is one of Britain's legendary car brands, representing the pinnacle of engineering quality and luxury like no other manufacturer. Since 1904, when Charles Stewart Rolls and Frederick Henry Royce began their collaboration, the Rolls-Royce name has earned respect and admiration the world over. This book tells the story of Britain's premier luxury car-maker, from the early experimental models through the 40/50 Silver Ghost, the Twenty, the Phantoms, the Wraiths and their post-1945 successors, with evocative names such as Silver Shadow and Silver Seraph. It celebrates more than 115 years of car manufacture under the Rolls-Royce brand, revealing how careful management and simple dedication have ensured that the Rolls-Royce name remains a byword for the best of the best.

By Jonathan Wood. 64 pages  (A5 size)

A highly useful reference source by Jonathan Wood, one of Britain's most respected motoring historians, who presents in a very clear way the ups and downs of the British motor industry throughout the 20th Century. He chronicles everything from the production of handmade bespoke automobiles for the fortunate few at the very beginning of the 20th Century, to the arrival of mass production in later years, which ensured cars for the many. He looks at the factories and the people who worked in them, and examines the role played by the component manufacturers that serviced the industry. In conclusion, this ideal introduction offers explanations as to why motor manufacturing followed the British motorcycle, bicycle and cotton industries into oblivion, due to a combination of poor management, lack or foresight and economic pressures.

By David Venables. 176 pages. Hardback 

Beautifully presented, revealing and fact filled guide to all of Europe's legendary motor racing circuits, including Monza, Nurburgring, Donington, Le Mans, Brooklands and many others. Contains hundreds of excellent colour and black and white photographs, circuit maps, program covers and much more. The book was written by the highly respected David Venables, a leading authority on the subject and it will enthral everyone who buys it.

SOLD OUT

By Tim Hill and Gareth Thomas. 255 Pages. Hardback

The Encyclopedia of Formula 1 chronicles the history of the world championships, for the 50+ years from Giuseppe Farina's victory for Alfa Romeo at Silverstone on 13 May 1950. It has an easy to read style and contains several hundred photographs. All the best loved and respected drivers are profiled along with the most important, innovative and successful teams and marques that have made the sport the multi-million pound industry that it has become. The popularity of the sport has meant that Formula 1 has truly become global, a fact that is reflected in the number of new circuits that have been added to the Formula 1 calendar over the years. These new circuits, as well as those well-established tracks, are illustrated and the daring deeds performed on them narrated. The history of Formula 1 is a story of ingenuity and endeavour, rivalry and camaraderie, triumph and tragedy, in pursuit of the greatest prize in motor sport. SOLD OUT

By Phillip Raby. 128 pages. Hardback

Aston Martin - those two simple words conjure up exciting images in any enthusiast's mind. Images of power, speed and elegance with a dash of suavity thrown in. This little book gives a potted history of Aston Martin, outlining the company's chequered background and how it has evolved to be the prestige marque it is today, recognised around the world. It also features some of the most interesting and important road-going models that Aston Martin has produced over the years complete with performance figures and statistic fact boxes.

By Jon Stroud. 128 pages. Hardback

The Little Book of the Beetle tells the fascinating story of the little car that brought modern day motoring to the masses. "Think small" said the advertising campaign – what better way to celebrate the VW Beetle than with a Little Book! Truly the world’s most popular car of all time, the Volkswagen Beetle holds a special place in the heart of many a motoring enthusiast the world over. To some it’s the Käfer, to others it’s the Vocho to most it’s the plain old Bug – whatever you want to call it it’s a motoring icon without comparison. From its beginnings in the dark and sinister days of Hitler’s Germany through to its modern day reincarnation.

By Paul Guinness  192 pages. Hardback

If you love driving, a sports car is the ideal vehicle. It has tactile handling, a strong performance, head-turning looks, and these are just some of the elements that make sports cars fun. This book provides a complete introduction to the world of sports cars, with practical advice on how to choose the most suitable model, and what to expect when running one, as well as guidance on insurance, accessories, modifying and maintenance. This is essential reading for anyone contemplating the purchase of their first sports car, as well as for existing owners who want to maximise their enjoyment of sports car ownership.

By Steve Lanham  64 pages  (A5 size)

An informative and expertly written introduction to the first decades of the motor car when the automobile represented the very peak of technological innovation. The book is packed with fascinating facts about the experimental origins of the motor industry, when these 'horseless carriages' were largely constructed in back-street workshops, with many simply resembling the frame and bodywork of a horse-drawn carriage, but fitted with a petrol engine. Experimentation was rife, however, and there was much debate as to whether petrol, steam or electricity should lead the way, with endurance runs, hill climbs and organised races pitting them one against the other. Early motorists had to employ novel measures to overcome challenges such as the rudimentary engineering of early cars, the difficulty of fuel supply, the poorly maintained roads, and hostility from other road users. 

By Bill Body 32 pages  (A5 size) 

Many fascinating car makes and models were manufactured between 1919 and 1930, from crude cyclecars and light cars like the Austin Seven to Rolls-Royce luxury limousines and sports cars such as the Frazer Nash. In this book Bill Boddy covers the changing road conditions, the developing design and construction techniques of these vintage cars, and the races and other competition events that their drivers used them for, including the high-speed events at the famed Brooklands track.