Best Car Books – From Motorsport Legends to Hands-On Garage Guides
written by Mads
Last updated: March 2026
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Not all car books are the same.
Some tell stories. Some show history. Others actually teach you how to get your hands dirty.
This is a curated selection of the best automotive books — from Formula 1 legends and endurance racing to design icons, rivalries, and real-world garage knowledge.
No fluff. Just books worth owning.
Bond Cars: The Definitive History
More than just cars — this is movie history. This book dives into the iconic vehicles of James Bond, packed with behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive archive material. From Aston Martins to wild gadgets, it shows how cars became part of the 007 legend.
👉 Perfect if you’re into iconic movie cars and automotive pop culture.
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
A story of resilience at the highest level. This book follows Niki Lauda’s full racing career — from early struggles to multiple world championships. It’s not just about results, but about the mindset, setbacks, and comeback that defined him.
👉 Perfect if you’re into Formula 1 history and one of its toughest characters.
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
A different kind of racing story. This book reveals Paul Newman’s deep connection to motorsport — far beyond Hollywood. From his late start in racing to team ownership, it’s a story about passion, discipline, and commitment on the track.
👉 Perfect if you’re into racing stories with a human and unexpected angle.
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
A rare look inside Formula 1 engineering.
Adrian Newey shares insights from his career at the very top of motorsport — working with legendary drivers and designing some of the fastest cars ever built. Personal, technical, and full of behind-the-scenes thinking.
👉 Perfect if you want real insight into how F1 cars are actually designed.
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
A full century of racing history. This book covers 100 years of Le Mans — from early endurance racing to the modern hybrid era. Packed with iconic cars, legendary drivers, and defining moments, it captures what makes this race so special.
👉 Perfect if you’re into endurance racing and the history of Le Mans.
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
A tribute to the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. This book brings together every F1 World Champion — with profiles, stories, and strong visuals. Less about cars, more about the people who defined the sport.
👉 Perfect if you’re into Formula 1 legends and the stories behind the 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
One of the greatest rivalries in motorsport history. This book tells the story behind the legendary clash at Le Mans ’66 — Ford vs. Ferrari, power vs. passion. Less technical, more storytelling, with all the tension, ego, and ambition that defined this era.
👉 Perfect if you’re into racing history and iconic automotive rivalries.
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
The full story of American stock car racing. From its raw, moonshine-running origins to today’s massive racing industry — this book covers it all. Packed with historic photos, legendary drivers, and season highlights, it’s a deep and entertaining look at NASCAR.
👉 Perfect if you’re into American motorsport and the culture of NASCAR.
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
Every track, every layout, every detail. This book focuses on the circuits themselves — with maps, stats, and background stories from tracks all over the world. Clean, informative, and surprisingly addictive if you’re into the details.
👉 Perfect if you’re into F1 circuits, layouts, and track data.
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.
Get Your Hands Dirty – Restoration & DIY Books
Before you start turning wrenches — start here.
These books focus on the practical side of cars: welding, interiors, paint, and real garage work. If you’re not just looking to read, but to actually build, fix, or restore — this is where it gets serious.
How To Weld
A true hands-on essential. This book teaches welding from the ground up — covering tools, safety, and techniques like MIG, TIG, and gas welding. Step-by-step, practical, and easy to follow.
👉 Perfect if you want to actually build, fix, and create in your garage.
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
Bring the inside of your car back to life. This book covers everything from repairing seats to building custom interior parts. Practical, detailed, and focused on real-world projects — not just theory.
👉 Perfect if you want to restore or upgrade your car’s interior yourself.
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
From prep to perfect finish. This book walks you through the entire painting process — from surface prep and paint types to final touches. Clear, practical, and packed with step-by-step guidance.
👉 Perfect if you want to repaint or finish a car the right way.
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.
