Best Books on Cars, Races, and Legendary Drivers
Top Picks for Automotive Enthusiasts
Over the years, I’ve accumulated a huge collection of books and I’ve shared already a number focussed on Porsche, BMW and Ferrari. Now I have curated a list of recommendations focused on Automotive History in general, important cars, races and some of the drivers.
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Essential Reads – Best Books on Cars, Racing, and Iconic Drivers!
Dive into the captivating world of automotive wonders with my handpicked selection of must-read books. From the timeless allure of classic cars to the heart-pounding excitement of iconic races and the inspiring tales of legendary drivers, these pages are packed with passion and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just getting started, let these books fuel your love for all things automotive.
Bond Cars: The Definitive History
Explore the history of Bond’s iconic cars in this lavishly presented book. Featuring exclusive material from the Bond archive, delve into the behind-the-scenes stories of the vehicles that shared the spotlight with 007. Hear from key figures including producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, Daniel Craig, and veteran Bond films supervisor Chris Corbould.
1. Bond Cars: The Definitive History
Explore the history of Bond’s iconic cars in this lavishly presented book. Featuring exclusive material from the Bond archive, delve into the behind-the-scenes stories of the vehicles that shared the spotlight with 007. Hear from key figures including producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, Daniel Craig, and veteran Bond films supervisor Chris Corbould.
Niki Lauda: His competition history
Niki Lauda’s racing journey is one of resilience and triumph. Against his family’s wishes, he started his career in 1968 with a Mini before progressing through Formula Vee and Formula 3 with setbacks along the way. Despite financial struggles, Lauda secured a Formula 2 seat at March in 1971. His early Formula 1 years were challenging, marked by limited success and financial strain. However, his fortunes changed when he joined Ferrari, winning two World Championships in 1975 and 1977. Tensions led to his departure from Ferrari, and he briefly found success with Brabham before retiring in 1979. Lauda returned to racing with McLaren in 1982, proving his doubters wrong by winning his third race and securing his third World Championship in 1984. With 25 Grand Prix victories, he retired for good in 1985, leaving behind a legacy of determination and success.
2. Niki Lauda: His competition history
Niki Lauda’s racing journey is one of resilience and triumph. Against his family’s wishes, he started his career in 1968 with a Mini before progressing through Formula Vee and Formula 3 with setbacks along the way. Despite financial struggles, Lauda secured a Formula 2 seat at March in 1971. His early Formula 1 years were challenging, marked by limited success and financial strain. However, his fortunes changed when he joined Ferrari, winning two World Championships in 1975 and 1977. Tensions led to his departure from Ferrari, and he briefly found success with Brabham before retiring in 1979. Lauda returned to racing with McLaren in 1982, proving his doubters wrong by winning his third race and securing his third World Championship in 1984. With 25 Grand Prix victories, he retired for good in 1985, leaving behind a legacy of determination and success.
Winning: The Racing Life of Paul Newman
Winner of the International Automotive Media Gold Award in 2010, this book uncovers Paul Newman’s lesser-known passion for car racing and team ownership. From his late start in racing to his partnership with Carl Haas and his diverse car collection, including Porsches and quirky modified VWs, it highlights Newman’s love for automobiles. With anecdotes, races, and cars, the book celebrates Newman’s enduring spirit and multifaceted talents.
3. Winning: The Racing Life of Paul Newman
Winner of the International Automotive Media Gold Award in 2010, this book uncovers Paul Newman’s lesser-known passion for car racing and team ownership. From his late start in racing to his partnership with Carl Haas and his diverse car collection, including Porsches and quirky modified VWs, it highlights Newman’s love for automobiles. With anecdotes, races, and cars, the book celebrates Newman’s enduring spirit and multifaceted talents.
How to Build a Car: The Autobiography of the World’s Greatest Formula 1 Designer
Damon Hill praises Adrian Newey’s unique talent for understanding drivers and racing cars in his memoir, ‘How to Build a Car.’ Newey, a leading figure in Formula One design, shares insights from his 35-year career, collaborating with legendary drivers like Mario Andretti and Ayrton Senna. Through triumphs and tragedies, his pursuit of speed and efficiency shines, beautifully illustrated with never-before-seen drawings. ‘How to Build a Car’ offers a thrilling glimpse into the symbiotic relationship between man and machine in Formula One.
4. How to Build a Car: The Autobiography of the World’s Greatest Formula 1 Designer
Damon Hill praises Adrian Newey’s unique talent for understanding drivers and racing cars in his memoir, ‘How to Build a Car.’ Newey, a leading figure in Formula One design, shares insights from his 35-year career, collaborating with legendary drivers like Mario Andretti and Ayrton Senna. Through triumphs and tragedies, his pursuit of speed and efficiency shines, beautifully illustrated with never-before-seen drawings. ‘How to Build a Car’ offers a thrilling glimpse into the symbiotic relationship between man and machine in Formula One.
Le Mans 100: A Century at the World’s Greatest Endurance Race
Experience 100 years of the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans with this official illustrated history. From iconic marques like Porsche and Ferrari to motorsport legends such as Juan Manuel Fangio and Jackie Ickx, delve into the rich history of this endurance race. Author Glen Smale highlights key events, including the Ford vs Ferrari battles and the tragic 1955 accident, showcasing the race’s blend of mechanical reliability and driver skill. Whether factory-sponsored or privateer entries, from open-cockpit racers to today’s hybrid era, ‘Le Mans 100’ is a must-have for motorsport enthusiasts.
5. Le Mans 100: A Century at the World’s Greatest Endurance Race
Experience 100 years of the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans with this official illustrated history. From iconic marques like Porsche and Ferrari to motorsport legends such as Juan Manuel Fangio and Jackie Ickx, delve into the rich history of this endurance race. Author Glen Smale highlights key events, including the Ford vs Ferrari battles and the tragic 1955 accident, showcasing the race’s blend of mechanical reliability and driver skill. Whether factory-sponsored or privateer entries, from open-cockpit racers to today’s hybrid era, ‘Le Mans 100’ is a must-have for motorsport enthusiasts.
Formula One: The Champions: 70 years of legendary F1 drivers
Immerse yourself in the world of Formula One with this stunning tribute to all 34 F1 World Champions. Renowned F1 commentator Maurice Hamilton and acclaimed photographers Bernard and Paul-Henri Cahier present a captivating portrayal of the skill and determination that sets these champions apart. Featuring profiles of each champion, historic interviews, and exclusive quotes from icons like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, this book celebrates the exhilarating world of Formula One. With exquisite photography and insightful commentary, it’s the ultimate homage to the sport and its legendary champions.
6. Formula One: The Champions: 70 years of legendary F1 drivers
Immerse yourself in the world of Formula One with this stunning tribute to all 34 F1 World Champions. Renowned F1 commentator Maurice Hamilton and acclaimed photographers Bernard and Paul-Henri Cahier present a captivating portrayal of the skill and determination that sets these champions apart. Featuring profiles of each champion, historic interviews, and exclusive quotes from icons like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, this book celebrates the exhilarating world of Formula One. With exquisite photography and insightful commentary, it’s the ultimate homage to the sport and its legendary champions.
Ford versus Ferrari: The Battle for Supremacy at Le Mans 1966
When America’s wealthiest car manufacturer collided with Italy’s Ferrari in the mid-1960s, it sparked an epic showdown. Enzo Ferrari, steadfast in his refusal to sell his company to Ford, found himself facing off against the automotive giant on the racetracks of the world, notably at Le Mans ’66. It was a clash of immovable force and unyielding determination, encapsulating the fierce rivalry between Ford and Ferrari.
7. Ford versus Ferrari: The Battle for Supremacy at Le Mans 1966
When America’s wealthiest car manufacturer collided with Italy’s Ferrari in the mid-1960s, it sparked an epic showdown. Enzo Ferrari, steadfast in his refusal to sell his company to Ford, found himself facing off against the automotive giant on the racetracks of the world, notably at Le Mans ’66. It was a clash of immovable force and unyielding determination, encapsulating the fierce rivalry between Ford and Ferrari.
NASCAR: The Complete History
NASCAR: The Complete History” is a comprehensive pictorial journey through American stock car racing, from its moonshine-running roots to today’s multibillion-dollar industry. With historic photos, highlights from each season, colorful descriptions of legendary drivers, original ads, and trivia, this 628-page book is a must-have for any race fan’s library. Presented in a leather-like padded hardcover, it’s a worthy addition to any enthusiast’s collection.
8. NASCAR: The Complete History
NASCAR: The Complete History” is a comprehensive pictorial journey through American stock car racing, from its moonshine-running roots to today’s multibillion-dollar industry. With historic photos, highlights from each season, colorful descriptions of legendary drivers, original ads, and trivia, this 628-page book is a must-have for any race fan’s library. Presented in a leather-like padded hardcover, it’s a worthy addition to any enthusiast’s collection.
Formula 1 Circuits: Maps and statistics from every Grand Prix track
Discover the stories behind every Formula One track in this updated guide. Written by Maurice Hamilton, it features bespoke digital maps and fascinating facts about renowned circuits and hidden gems. Covering all 77 Formula 1 circuits, including six new additions, it’s the ultimate resource for Grand Prix enthusiasts.
9. Formula 1 Circuits: Maps and statistics from every Grand Prix track
Discover the stories behind every Formula One track in this updated guide. Written by Maurice Hamilton, it features bespoke digital maps and fascinating facts about renowned circuits and hidden gems. Covering all 77 Formula 1 circuits, including six new additions, it’s the ultimate resource for Grand Prix enthusiasts.
Top Picks for Classic Car Restoration Workshop Books & Manuals!
Unlock the secrets to restoring classic cars to their former glory with my handpicked selection of workshop books and manuals. From mastering the art of welding to restoring interiors to perfection and achieving flawless paint finishes, these resources cover every aspect of classic car restoration. Dive into these expert guides and unleash your passion for automotive restoration. If I can do it, you can do it too!
How To Weld
Learn welding from beginner to expert with “How to Weld”, the ultimate guide by Todd Bridigum. Covering tools, safety, and techniques like gas welding and MIG/TIG, this book is perfect for DIY enthusiasts and seasoned welders alike. With step-by-step exercises and colorful illustrations, it’s the only resource you’ll need to master welding and unleash your creativity.
1. How To Weld
Learn welding from beginner to expert with ‘How to Weld,’ the ultimate guide by Todd Bridigum. Covering tools, safety, and techniques like gas welding and MIG/TIG, this book is perfect for DIY enthusiasts and seasoned welders alike. With step-by-step exercises and colorful illustrations, it’s the only resource you’ll need to master welding and unleash your creativity.
How to Restore and Customize Automotive Interiors
Learn to restore and customize automotive interiors with expert guidance from Dennis Parks. From repairing seats to crafting custom door panels, this comprehensive guide covers all aspects of interior restoration for any type of vehicle. Discover essential tips for selecting tools, planning your project, and maintaining your restored interior. Whether you’re installing floor coverings or upholstering seats, this book has you covered.
2. How to Restore and Customize Automotive Interiors
Learn to restore and customize automotive interiors with expert guidance from Dennis Parks. From repairing seats to crafting custom door panels, this comprehensive guide covers all aspects of interior restoration for any type of vehicle. Discover essential tips for selecting tools, planning your project, and maintaining your restored interior. Whether you’re installing floor coverings or upholstering seats, this book has you covered.
How to Paint Your Car
“How to Paint Your Car” provides thorough guidance on automotive painting techniques, featuring 400 color photos and clear instructions. Covering paint chemistry, surface prep, safety gear, and more, it walks you through car preparation and offers insights into custom touches and paint care. Whether it’s a touch-up or a complete respray, this book is your go-to resource.
3. How to Paint Your Car
How to Paint Your Car provides thorough guidance on automotive painting techniques, featuring 400 color photos and clear instructions. Covering paint chemistry, surface prep, safety gear, and more, it walks you through car preparation and offers insights into custom touches and paint care. Whether it’s a touch-up or a complete respray, this book is your go-to resource.
