Softback smaller paperback format with comprehensive colour illustrations over 256 pages
ISBN 978-0754801764 Publisher: Hermes House
Special offer price (Gaydon Heritage Centre): £2.99
This handy Classic title was bought on a 2011 whim and represents a 2010 update of a 1997 edition, first published as The Encylopedia of Classic Cars. Most of the 900+ pictures are from Haymarket's leading Classic & Sports Car magazine vaults, a prime asset in a title covering Alfa Romeo to Volvo, via Tatra and Toyota!
All the writers are leading magazine journalists, with Buckley an established author of substance and a love-him or hate-him columnist. Buckley has also trodden the hard road of serial classic car ownership, with over 100 acquisitions.
Narrow, 40-year, time-span aside, the title is a masterpiece of cramming accessible information into less than 260 pages. Sections define and cover the growth of the classic movement with honourable acknowledgement to 1973 monthly magazine pioneers at Classic Cars and passing glances at key technical developments, significant engineers and motor sports.
The wide range of models and marques covered in 2-page spreads is appreciated. Some shorter sidebars cover lesser known marques like Delahaye, Falcon, Jowett, Gilbern, Glas, Lloyd and Lanchester.
Not much detail, but useful panels usually cover the basics like engine,transmission, performance and production.
Good enough to appeal to the broadest readership and start you thinking I want one/need to know more…
